Denton, Texas — As they warmed up before a workout earlier this month, quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward engaged in a friendly debate about who had the faster 40-yard dash time. Their conversation quickly turned to the quality of footballs Ward threw at Miami, with Sanders joking about the distance on the balls. Ward, however, shot back, saying, “You can be legendary. Legendary get they ass whooped. … Generational is once every 100 years.”
Their banter is just a glimpse into the close relationship they share, which has been a positive influence on each other’s development. Sanders and Ward are the consensus top two quarterback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, and it’s possible that they’ll be the first two players selected. They’ve formed a strong bond over the years, despite their different playing styles and personalities.
Sanders, who played his last two college seasons at Colorado, is known for his pinpoint accuracy and timing, while Ward, who transferred from Washington State to Miami, is praised for his ability to play off-schedule and with off-platform throws. Their relationship is more than just playful jabs, as they often discuss football strategy and concepts, sharing notes on common opponents and helping each other improve.
Their training regimens have been facilitated by Darrell Colbert Jr., the founder of Select QB Athletics, who has worked with both Sanders and Ward for nearly four years. Colbert notes that their competitive environment is relaxed, but it’s not just about being on camera. “It’s genuine,” he said. “Those guys want the same thing – they want to be the No. 1 draft pick. They work hard, they want to get better, and they want to see each other get better as well.”
Colbert believes that their unique relationship will serve as a blueprint for future college quarterbacks. “I think that’s the best you can get out of anybody, especially when you’re asking guys to come in and be your franchise quarterback,” he said. “They walk their own walk.”
