As the NFL draft approaches, opinions on Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders are mixed. Some critics question his athleticism and arm strength, but former Giants head coach Pat Shurmur, who worked with Sanders as Colorado’s offensive coordinator, isn’t buying it. He insists Sanders has a strong arm and can make all the necessary throws, adding that critics have it wrong when it comes to his athleticism. Shurmur also compared Sanders’ ability to extend plays to Patrick Mahomes, noting his ability to scramble and make something out of nothing.

Additionally, Sanders has faced some criticism for his tendency to pat the ball before throwing, something some say makes it easier for defenders to read his moves. But Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton took to social media to back Sanders, joking that if defenders were as good at picking off passes based on ball-patting, they’d all be racking up interceptions.

Sanders had a solid college career, throwing for over 7,300 yards and 64 touchdowns with a completion rate of 71.8%. At his recent pro day, he was nearly perfect, completing 62 of 67 passes. With the Giants holding the No. 3 overall pick, it’ll be interesting to see if they take a shot on him, especially given the debate over his potential.