Why Kellen Moore Chose Tyler Shough as QB and What Shedeur Sanders’ Role Could Have Been

The Saints were a potential destination for quarterback Shedeur Sanders before the draft. However, they chose to go with tackle Kelvin Banks in the first round and selected quarterback Tyler Shough in the second. Head coach Kellen Moore shared that the team had meaningful discussions about various quarterbacks during the draft process.

When asked about Sanders, who remains undrafted, Moore acknowledged his talent, noting, “He was part of those conversations. Making these decisions isn’t easy. He’s a very skilled player. His performance at Colorado stands out, and his film is impressive.” Ultimately, the team opted for Shough. Moore highlighted the importance of their choice, considering Shough’s experience and resilience.

Shough has a diverse college background, playing at Oregon, Texas Tech, and concluding at Louisville. Despite facing injuries over his seven years in college, Moore sees his journey as a strength. “He’s experienced many challenges, which can help him grow in the NFL. Players who handle adversity often succeed,” Moore remarked. Shough’s improvement last season was also a positive signal for the Saints as they evaluated their options.

As the team navigates forward, clarity on Derek Carr’s shoulder injury will play a crucial role in determining when they can assess Shough’s readiness for professional play. This uncertainty adds to the anticipation surrounding the team’s future decisions.

In recent years, the importance of resilience in sports has been underscored by numerous studies. A report from the Journal of Sports Psychology found that athletes who adapt to challenges tend to perform better under pressure. This insight echoes Moore’s faith in Shough as they prepare for the upcoming season.

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