Other QBs the Saints Could Target Besides Shedeur
With the NFL Draft fast approaching, the New Orleans Saints have clarified they’re seriously exploring the quarterback market and not just in a casual, “do-your-due-diligence” way. All signs point to the Saints leaning heavily toward taking a quarterback in the first or second round, possibly signaling the start of a long-term rebuild under center. While much of the buzz has centered around Shedeur Sanders, thanks to his name recognition and strong college production, it’s starting to look like the Saints might have other plans. Behind the scenes, New Orleans has quietly met with several intriguing QB prospects who could be much higher on their draft board than people expect. Let’s look at three quarterbacks the Saints have shown interest in and who might just be their guy come draft night.
Jaxson Dart
One name that’s flown a bit under the radar but has quietly started to gain buzz in league circles is Jaxson Dart out of Ole Miss. With the Saints shifting offensive identity under new head coach Kellen Moore, Dart presents a compelling fit for the type of quarterback Moore has thrived with: mobile, aggressive, and able to create outside of structure. Dart brings a gritty play style, good arm strength, and the athleticism to operate both in and out of the pocket, which aligns well with Moore’s preference for quarterbacks who can stretch the field vertically and keep defenses honest with their legs. While Dart still needs refinement in areas like timing and decision-making, Moore’s history with QBs, from developing Dak Prescott to tailoring game plans for Justin Herbert, suggests he could be the kind of coach who helps Dart iron out the inconsistencies in his game. In the right environment, Dart could develop into a dual-threat playmaker with real long-term upside, and New Orleans might see him as the kind of under-the-radar prospect worth building around, even if he's not the headline name like Shedeur Sanders.
Jalen Milroe
Another quarterback who could be high on the Saints' radar is Jalen Milroe from Alabama, a raw but electric prospect whose ceiling might be one of the highest in this class. Milroe made significant strides in 2024, showing the ability to take over games with both his legs and deep-ball accuracy. He brings a unique athletic profile to the table, with rare speed and strength for the quarterback position, and he’s already proven he can make defenses pay in various ways. For a team like New Orleans, now under the leadership of head coach Kellen Moore, Milroe could be an exciting project. Moore has a track record of tailoring his offense around his quarterback’s strengths. With Milroe’s elite mobility and explosive playmaking ability, the possibilities in Moore’s vertical and play-action-heavy system are enticing. Milroe would need time to develop as a processor and improve his consistency on short-to-intermediate throws. Still, with the proper coaching and patience, he has the tools to become a dynamic, franchise-changing quarterback. If the Saints are looking for a high-upside swing that could reshape their offense in the long term, Milroe might be their guy even if he’s not the name most fans expect.
Tyler Shough
A third name connected to the Saints during the pre-draft process is Tyler Shough, most recently out of Louisville after previous stops at Oregon and Texas Tech. Shough brings prototypical NFL size at 6’5, 230 lbs, a strong arm, and experience running multiple offensive systems, all of which could appeal to Kellen Moore as he looks to reshape New Orleans’ offense. At his best, Shough is a confident, rhythm-based passer who can stretch the field vertically and make throws into tight windows, traits fit well with Moore’s balanced but aggressive approach. While injuries have limited his ability to stay on the field consistently, the flashes of high-level decision-making, toughness, and leadership are real. Shough could be more than just a developmental or depth option for the Saints if he stays healthy and lands in the right system; he has the tools to compete for a starting role down the line. He’s not getting the same buzz as other big-name prospects, but Shough might just be the kind of under-the-radar quarterback Moore believes he can mold into something special.
While Shedeur Sanders continues to dominate the headlines as a potential fit for New Orleans, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the Saints are casting a much wider net regarding their quarterback search. With Kellen Moore taking over and putting his stamp on the franchise, the team appears open to finding a quarterback who fits his specific vision, even if that means going against public expectations. Whether it’s the dual-threat upside of Jalen Milroe, the creative versatility of Jaxson Dart, or the under-the-radar potential of Tyler Shough, the Saints seem to be doing their homework on a wide range of QB prospects. Don’t be surprised if they make a move in the first or second round, just don’t assume it’s for the guy everyone’s talking about. New Orleans might be ready to turn the page at quarterback, but who they turn to could still be the biggest surprise of draft night.
