Saints select Tyler Shough with No. 40 pick in NFL draft

The New Orleans Saints opted for a long-shot strategy in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Louisville QB Tyler Shough with the 40th pick as they bypassed Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders, who was available later in the round. Despite their history of drafting quarterbacks late—omitting the top two rounds since 1971—they expressed intrigue about Shough's potential and his extensive college experience at Louisville. The Saints' approach reflects a growing preference for experienced, lower-round talent as they rebuild under coach Kellen Moore and GM Mickey Loomis.