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Shilo Sanders' NFL journey is officially underway after the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders was ed over in all seven rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft. Hours following the final pick was announced, Sanders signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent. Now, he faces the daunting challenge of proving himself worthy of a spot on the team's final 53-man roster.
As per the league's collective bargaining agreement, Sanders will the Buccaneers on a standard undrafted rookie contract. These deals typically span three years, carry no team options, and offer compensation at the league's minimum salary.
For the 2025 season, if Sanders makes the final roster, he would earn a base salary of $840,000. If he remains with the team into his second season, the CBA mandates that his pay increase to $1,005,000 in 2026.
Emotional reaction follows draft snub
The disappointment of not hearing his name called was evident during a family livestream on Twitch following the conclusion of the draft. Surrounded by his family, including his father and brother Shedeur Sanders - who was selected in the fifth round by the Cleveland Browns - Shilo opened up about the emotional toll of being overlooked.
"They tested us this draft," Shilo Sanders said, visibly frustrated.
In response, Deion Sanders chimed in with a message of solidarity.
"They tested the whole family," he said.
While the moment was raw and vulnerable, it quickly shifted toward optimism. Despite the sting of going undrafted, Deion expressed gratitude for his son's opportunity with the Buccaneers.
"I'm thankful," Coach Prime said. "Tampa's a wonderful spot."
Shilo now enters the next phase of his career with something to prove. During his time at Colorado, he earned a reputation as a physical safety with high football IQ, notching 137 tackles, one interception, five forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries over 21 games with the Buffaloes.