Rick Ross, the hip-hop mogul and entrepreneur, has expressed a keen interest in owning a stake in an NFL team following the recent NFL draft, particularly in light of the treatment of Shadour Sanders. The rising quarterback, who has made headlines for his impressive college career, was drafted by the Cleveland Browns but faced criticism for being selected in the fifth round, a position that many fans and analysts consider undervalued given his talent.
In a recent video, Ross shared his thoughts on the draft and Sanders’ situation, highlighting the stark contrast between the quarterback’s marketability and the decisions made by NFL franchises. “If it’s about business, then what are we really talking about?” Ross questioned, pointing out that Sanders has already garnered significant endorsements, including a record deal from Maybach Music and a partnership with Rap Snacks. The rapper’s passionate defense of Sanders reflects broader concerns regarding the intersection of race and opportunity in professional sports.
Ross, a long-time supporter of Coach Prime Deion Sanders—Shadour’s father and a celebrated college football figure—wondered aloud what might be hindering the NFL from fully embracing talents like Shadour. He posed the question of whether the league is wary of the “social currency” and influence that comes with a player of Sanders’ caliber, particularly given the close-knit dynamics of college football transitioning to the professional level.
The conversation has sparked debates over power, control, and the underlying motivations of team owners. Ross mused about the implications of having a voice in ownership, contemplating whether money, power, or control should be the primary focus of NFL franchises. “Would you rather have money or power?” he challenged his audience, encouraging them to reflect on the true essence of success in the sports industry.
Despite the controversies surrounding the draft, Ross extended his congratulations to Shadour Sanders for being selected by the Browns, expressing his support for the young athlete’s future endeavors. As the NFL continues to evolve, the dialogue surrounding representation and equity in sports ownership remains crucial, and figures like Rick Ross are helping to elevate these discussions.
With his ambitions to potentially take on a role in NFL ownership, Rick Ross is signaling a desire for change within professional sports. The intersection of music, culture, and athletics is increasingly prominent, and as conversations around representation gain traction, it remains to be seen how the league will respond to calls for more inclusive practices. In the meantime, supporters of Shadour Sanders and advocates for equity in sports ownership are watching closely, eager to see how this narrative unfolds.