Shedeur Rumor Sparks Major Cowboys Connection

FRISCO — Contemplating their upcoming NFL Draft decision, the New Orleans Saints suddenly have more to think about with the No. 9 overall pick. Friday, NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo reported that quarterback Derek Carr's availability for the 2025 season is up in the air after due to a shoulder injury. 

The veteran could consider surgery for the injured shoulder which in turn may influence what the Saints do with their first round draft pick. Carr had his 2024 season hampered with hand and oblique injuries, meaning this harsh stretch of luck may prompt the franchise to examine their future at the position. 

Looking at their options, really one specific name comes to mind if they opt for a quarterback with their first pick. Shedeur Sanders appears to be the prime target for New Orleans here. Frankly, it seems Sanders' father Deion agrees with that sentiment after a cryptic post on X Friday evening. 

If the Saints go that route, it could make for an intriguing Dallas Cowboys connection. Former Cowboys quarterback turned offensive coordinator Kellen Moore takes over in New Orleans with his first head coaching gig. He will be overseeing the offense and presumably mentoring Shedeur. 

For Moore, it makes for quite the undertaking in year one. Now the former wunderkind rising star has grown accustomed to the big stage. 

Years with the Cowboys constantly had him under the spotlight and his stint with the Philadelphia Eagles showed his ability to lead an offense at the highest level. From Dak Prescott to Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts, Moore was worked with some of the best play callers in the game. 

This would make for an entirely new challenge. Deion's duties at Colorado will keep him occupied though he does not seem interested weighing his influence much regardless of where Shedeur ends up. 

But a Sanders-connected Saints team will draw more national attention than usual and that does come with some added pressure. Sanders is a highly touted prospect. At the same time, there are teams that have turned to free agency for quarterback answers rather than locking themselves into a first-round rookie. 

That could provide some additional motivation for Sanders to impress if he lands with the Saints. Nonetheless, the sudden change in temperature around the Saints draft means the stakes are higher for Moore than he may have anticipated.