Before the 2025 NFL Draft began, there were reports that New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr’s status for 2025 is unknown. This led to the Saints being a team to watch to select a quarterback in the draft, many believing it would be former Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
The Saints ended up selecting Louisville Cardinals quarterback Tyler Shough in the second round with the No. 40 overall pick. The selection came as a surprise, with many not expecting Sanders to fall in the draft.
Following the NFL Draft, Saints coach Kellen Moore talked about why the team passed up on Sanders and went with Shough instead. Moore confirmed that Sanders was an option for the Saints despite drafting Shough.
“He was right in those conversations,” Moore said. “These are really tough decisions. He’s a really good player. What he accomplished at Colorado and when you watch the film, it’s really really good. I think really highly of him.”
In 2024, Sanders passed for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns. He is an accurate passer, throwing just 10 interceptions and finishing the season with a 74.0 completion percentage. Another concern for teams is that he takes too many sacks. Sanders helped turn the Buffaloes into a winning team and conference contenders.
“Ultimately, as you go through it, you’ve got to make a decision. We felt like Tyler was the one for us,” Moore said. “A lot of these guys, they’re continuing to build. They’ve got a long career if they have success. You’ve seen that a lot throughout this league."
-1744989704-q80.webp "Rangers Forward in Qualifying Rounds for U.S. Open")