“Cruel” pranks flood NFL Draft 2025

As aspiring NFL players sat nervously awaiting the call that could change their lives, a few instead answered something entirely different: a cruel prank.

Shedeur Sanders, quarterback from the University of Colorado and son of Deion Sanders, was one of several prospects targeted by a fake draft phone call. The prank came from Jax Ulbrich, son of Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, who admitted to the hoax and later issued a public apology.

Browns select Sanders

After enduring the emotional rollercoaster, Sanders was eventually drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round, earning a chance to compete for a spot under head coach Kevin Stefanski.

But the moment was nearly derailed by a mock phone call that momentarily played with his dream of entering the league - a moment that many young players cherish for life.

Sanders not alone - other victims speak out

Shedeur Sanders wasn’t the only one targeted. Other victims of draft-day pranks included:

• Tyler Warren, tight end drafted by the Indianapolis Colts
• Kyle McCord, quarterback from Syracuse University
• Chase Lundt, offensive tackle picked by the Buffalo Bills

Each of them reportedly received fake draft calls, with some even believing they’d been selected before learning it was all a joke.

Outrage from NFL insiders: “Repugnant, cruel, senseless”

The backlash was swift. NFL insider Jordan Schultz slammed the behavior, calling it "cruel" and suggesting someone shared private contact info irresponsibly:

“NFL teams have access to these numbers, and it’s clear someone passed it along — whether to family or friends. Just so cruel.”

Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III echoed the sentiment, tweeting:

“Shedeur Sanders, Tyler Warren, even Cooper DeJean from last year and any other player has been prank called during the biggest moment of their life during the NFL draft is disgusting to watch.”

Griffin went further, condemning the larger trend:

“These types of pranks are just a reflection of our society and media moving further and further away from standards and morals towards no holds barred sensationalism.”

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.