SANTA CLARA, California – The shadow of a legacy is slowly returning to the Bay Area. Shilo Sanders, son of legend Deion “Prime Time” Sanders, is turning heads across the NFL by rejecting a tryout offer from the Seattle Seahawks to focus on securing an opportunity with the San Francisco 49ers – the team where his father won the Super Bowl XXIX championship in 1994.
According to NBC Sports, Seattle contacted Shilo in early October, offering him a spot on their practice squad after injuries to several defensive players. However, Shilo flat-out declined, surprising the Seahawks’ coaching staff. In a phone conversation, he is said to have told the team’s representative:
“I have great respect for Seattle, but my heart is set on somewhere else. I don’t want to just be on a practice squad – I want to fight for something bigger. If I could choose, I want to do it where my father made history.”
Earlier, on September 23, 2025, he appeared at Levi’s Stadium for a tryout with the 49ers, alongside five other players: William Bradley-King, Titus Leo, Isaiah Thomas, Jaylen Mahoney, and Brandon Joseph. The tryout was held amid a severe shortage of defensive personnel for the 49ers, especially after Nick Bosa suffered a serious injury (ACL).
Shilo, 25 years old, showcased strong agility at the safety/nickel position, displaying reflexes and quick game-reading skills – qualities that reminded many of the “Prime Time” style of old. Nevertheless, the 49ers opted to sign William Bradley-King and Jaylen Mahoney to bolster their practice squad, while Shilo was not selected.
Yet, the young man didn’t hide his belief that he would return. In an emotional interview with NBC Sports after leaving the field, Shilo said:
“I know this opportunity didn’t belong to me this time, but I don’t see it as a failure. I believe I have my own path – a path tied to these red and gold colors. I want my future at Levi’s Stadium. Here, my father won a Super Bowl ring. I want one day to win my own ring, in my own way.”
Previously, Shilo played for the Colorado Buffaloes under his father’s coaching, making his mark with 161 tackles, 11 interceptions, and 6 forced fumbles during his college career. Though injuries once kept him out of the 2025 draft, his resilience and professional attitude have caught the eye of several NFL teams.
According to CBS Sports, 49ers defensive coach Steve Wilks still highly regards Shilo’s energy and discipline, stating the team “will continue to monitor him in the near future.”
If a second chance comes, Shilo Sanders will have the opportunity not only to resume his unfinished journey – but also to continue the legacy of one of the greatest names in NFL history.
As he said in closing:
“Legacy isn’t given, it must be earned. And I know where I’ll start – Levi’s Stadium.”
