Deion Sanders has voiced his opinion on the recent NFL draft, saying he’s “ashamed” that 31 NFL teams passed on former JSU cornerback Isaiah Bolden for seven rounds.
On Thursday, the league hosted its 2023 draft and also passed on other ‘draft worthy’ Tiger players, which clearly upset the former Jackson State coach.
Bolden was the New England Patriots’ 12th and final selection; pick no. 245 of the draft, Sports Illustrated reported.
Sanders congratulated Bolden the following day and called out teams for electing not to select several of his other former players.
“So proud is you @isaiahbolden23,” tweeted Sanders. “You deserved to be drafted much higher but I’m truly proud of u. I know how much u want this. I’m ashamed of the 31 other @nfl teams that couldn’t find draft value in ALL of the talented HBCU players & we had 3 more draft worthy players at JSU.”
Bolden transferred from Florida State to Jackson State to play for Sanders. He led the nation by averaging 36.9 yards per kickoff return.
Earlier in the day, the 6’5” Bolden, who recorded 44 tackles and seven pass breakups in his senior campaign, tweeted, “Don’t feel sorry for me my story just began.”
So proud is you @isaiahbolden23 You deserved to be drafted much higher but I'm truly proud of u. I know how much u want this. I'm ashamed of the 31 other @nfl teams that couldn't find draft value in ALL of the talented HBCU players & we had 3 more draft worthy players at JSU. pic.twitter.com/BfEm3zIGPH
— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) April 30, 2023