Jason Whitlock slams Shedeur Sanders says ‘NFL’s Jake Paul’ didn’t earn Pro Bowl originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Not everyone was amused with Cleveland Browns rookie QB Shedeur Sanders at the 2026 Pro Bowl.

Advertisement

While many passers before him on the list weren’t available for numerous reasons, Sanders made the best of the opportunity with seven touchdowns and 11 interceptions on the season. The revamped social media event is a shell of what the Pro Bowl used to be. No tackling with an emphasis on building the All-Star game around flag football’s future.

This is certainly a far cry from the days of the late Sean Taylor popping Buffalo Bills punter Brian Moorman in one of the most-viewed Pro Bowl highlights. It’s a shame the NFL won’t revert to the days when this game mattered for more than clicks and likes.

One of those to quickly jump on the social media pile on was FOX Sports contributor Jason Whitlock. The longtime analyst pointed out Sanders’ significance of being selected for the game and the reach by the league to gain viewers. 

More: Sean Payton reveals Bo Nix’s ‘pre-existing’ ankle injury dates back to Auburn

“I can’t blame the NFL for desperately trying to sell this flag football exhibition featuring YouTube star/digital influencer Shedeur Sanders,” Whitlock wrote on X. “But I question everyone in the media who helps them sell it. This is slop. This is Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson. Shedeur is Jake Paul.”

Advertisement

The AFC lost 66-52 with Sanders throwing a couple touchdowns and picks. His first NFL offseason period will be interesting as “Grown” steps further away from his father’s shadow.

More college football news: