Tyler Shough Drafted by New Orleans Saints in Surprise 2025 NFL Draft Move

In one of the more surprising picks of the 2025 NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints selected quarterback Tyler Shough with the 40th overall pick, choosing the experienced signal-caller over the more widely anticipated prospect, Shedeur Sanders.
🏈 A Surprise Selection
Many draft analysts had projected Shedeur Sanders as a likely second-round pick for quarterback-needy teams. However, the Saints opted for Tyler Shough, citing his extensive college experience, leadership qualities, and perceived readiness to transition to the NFL.
“Tyler brings a high football IQ, maturity, and the ability to step in and contribute early,” a Saints executive said after the selection. “He’s battle-tested.”
🎓 Shough’s College Journey
Shough’s college career spanned multiple programs, where he showed flashes of strong arm talent, decision-making under pressure, and resilience through injuries. His polished mechanics and experience running pro-style offenses reportedly impressed New Orleans’ coaching staff during private workouts and interviews.
🔍 What It Means for the Saints
The move signals that the Saints are looking for a quarterback who can quickly adapt to the pro level and compete for a backup or developmental role in the short term, with the potential to push for a starting spot in the future.
Meanwhile, the decision leaves Shedeur Sanders still available heading into the next rounds, adding intrigue to Day 2 of the draft.
📰 Final Thoughts
Tyler Shough’s selection by the Saints is a bold endorsement of experience and readiness over hype and potential. Time will tell if this gamble pays off, but New Orleans clearly believes Shough fits their vision for the future under center.
Did the Saints make the right call choosing Shough over Sanders?
Share your opinion in the comments and stay tuned for more 2025 NFL Draft updates!