Saints Shock NFL Fans by Passing on Shedeur Sanders Amid Quarterback Drama

The 2025 NFL Draft delivered its first jaw-dropper when Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, a top prospect on just about everyone’s radar, watched the first round pass him by, with the New Orleans Saints and New York Giants both swerving in new directions.

The Giants, who flirted with the idea of snatching up a fresh quarterback, instead opted for Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter at No. 3. Defensive priorities, I guess—because who needs touchdowns when you have tackles?

But the real drama unfolded at pick No. 9. The Saints, who have spent weeks dodging questions about veteran quarterback Derek Carr’s shoulder (which apparently is now officially an “issue”), left fans in suspense by drafting Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. instead of a new QB. The move raised eyebrows, especially since the last time the Saints picked a quarterback in the first round, cell phones still had antennas. General manager Mickey Loomis confirmed Carr’s medical mystery but offered zero clarity about the team’s next steps, sidestepping questions about the 2025 starter like he was dodging blitzing linebackers.

With uncertainty hanging over Carr’s future, most expected New Orleans to grab a quarterback right out of the gate. Instead, Banks will get his shot at protecting whoever eventually lines up under center, likely competing with Trevor Penning for a starting role. Meanwhile, Shedeur Sanders is still waiting for his moment, sitting on the board after 14 picks.

The Saints’ gamble has left fans and analysts buzzing. Only time will tell if passing on Sanders was a genius move or the sports equivalent of fumbling on the one-yard line.