The New Orleans Saints could enter the 2025 NFL Draft searching for an eventual starting quarterback. New head coach Kellen Moore is sticking by veteran signal-caller Derek Carr for now. After facing trade rumors during free agency, Carr could be entering his final season with the Saints in 2025.
General manager Mickey Loomis has been attempting to find a successor for several drafts in a row. Spencer Rattler was drafted in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and Jake Haener was selected with a fourth-round pick in 2023. Unfortunately, neither Rattler nor Haener has played like an eventual full-time starting quarterback when afforded opportunities in the lineup.
The Saints may draft another mid-round quarterback after addressing their more pressing needs early. We've identified three potential options.
Will Howard, Ohio State
Will Howard drastically improved his pre-draft stock this past season after transferring to Ohio State from Kansas State. The Downingtown, Pennsylvania native threw for career highs in yards (4,010) and touchdowns (35). Howard led the Buckeyes to their first National Championship since 2014. In the title game triumph over Notre Dame, he completed 17-of-21 passing attempts for 231 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions.
The No. 75 overall prospect in our latest Draft Network 100 update, Howard possesses the physical tools required, pairing arm strength with pocket athleticism, to develop into a starting quarterback. Inconsistent mechanics and accuracy will likely prevent Howard from being a top-64 pick, offering a franchise like the Saints intriguing mid-round value. He'd immediately contend with Rattler and Haener.
Tyler Shough, Louisville
Louisville's Tyler Shough is viewed as one of the most pro-ready quarterback prospects in the class due to age and experience. After a five-year stint at Oregon and Texas Tech, which was derailed by various injuries, Shough finally stayed healthy and put it all together at his third program. The Cardinals standout threw for 3,195 yards and 23 scores this past year.
Shough's experience is evident under center, where he's routinely in control of the offense while making mature decisions. The No. 55 ranked prospect in our Draft Network 100, Shough was arguably the best quarterback in attendance at this year's Senior Bowl, and has enjoyed a stellar pre-draft process from January onward. Some scouts view him as the third-best quarterback in the class.
Kyle McCord, Syracuse
Another quarterback who rehabilitated his reputation this past season was Syracuse's Kyle McCord. McCord was an awkward fit at Ohio State, failing to live up to the Buckeyes' expectations. A transfer to the Orange-based program revived his career as he thrived in a high-volume passing attack.
McCord threw for an astounding 4,779 yards and 34 touchdowns throughout 2024. The Mount Laurel, New Jersey native ranked first in the nation in yards and fifth in passing scores. McCord is a throwback pocket passer with legitimate experience in a pro-style attack. His ability to occasionally win inside of structure would present the opportunity to compete for snaps in New Orleans' crowded QB room.
