ESPN Criticized for Ignoring No. 1 Pick Cam Ward During NFL Draft

Miami quarterback Cam Ward was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, but ESPN's coverage drew criticism for largely overlooking his achievement in favor of discussing Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders and a major trade involving the No. 2 pick. Despite Ward's historic rise from an underdog prospect to top draft choice, much of the broadcast's attention was focused on Sanders, who ultimately fell out of the first round, and the Jacksonville Jaguars' trade to acquire standout player Travis Hunter. This led to widespread frustration among fans and commentators, who felt Ward's moment was overshadowed. ESPN did eventually show highlights of Ward and even compared his playing style to Patrick Mahomes, a move that sparked further debate among viewers. Critics argued the network failed to properly recognize Ward's accomplishment and give him the spotlight typically afforded to a No. 1 pick. The overall sentiment was that ESPN's coverage diminished what should have been Ward's defining moment.