Why Shedeur Sanders to the Saints Makes Strategic Draft Sense

Introduction

The upcoming NFL Draft is buzzing with quarterback speculation, and at the center of it is Shedeur Sanders. While most eyes are on Cam Ward to go number one, industry insiders like Dave Essler suggest that Sanders’ most logical landing spot is with the New Orleans Saints at pick number nine. In this article, we dissect the odds, team needs, player value, and betting angles that all point to one conclusion: Sanders to the Saints just makes sense.

Cam Ward: The Unchallenged First Pick

Cam Ward is widely expected to be the first quarterback off the board, with betting odds solidifying that narrative—sitting at an astronomical 20,000 to 1. These numbers almost eliminate any serious competition at the top, firmly placing Ward as the initial QB domino to fall.

Shedeur Sanders: High Value, Uncertain Order

Despite being the odds-on favorite to be the second quarterback taken, Shedeur Sanders finds himself in a challenging draft position. His 20 to 1 odds to be the first quarterback show he’s not in Ward’s league in terms of top-pick likelihood. Even as the second QB, his position is not secure, with players like Jackson Dart rising quickly in stock.

Draft Order Breakdown: Who Needs a Quarterback?

To understand where Sanders could realistically land, one must look at the top ten draft order:

• Cleveland: No QB need.

• New York Giants: Recently acquired quarterbacks.

• New England Patriots: Targeting Will Campbell.

• Raiders: Have Geno Smith.

• Jets: Acquired Justin Fields.

• Panthers: Still committed to Bryce Young.

By the time the draft reaches the ninth pick, most quarterback-needy teams have either solved their issue or aren’t expected to reach for Sanders. That ninth pick belongs to the New Orleans Saints.

The Saints Connection: Why Pick Nine is Logical

The Saints were reportedly exploring quarterback options even before committing to Derek Carr. Despite Carr’s presence, he’s not widely viewed as the franchise’s long-term solution. Sanders offers a fresh, developmental option for a team that may want to look beyond Carr’s tenure.

The betting odds align perfectly:

• Pick 9 odds: +240 for Sanders

• Top 10 draft placement: -220

• Under 8.5 pick position: -330

These indicators strongly suggest pick nine as Sanders’ likeliest destination.

Betting Strategy and Safe Picks

Dave Essler’s perspective brings a unique twist—an emphasis on betting logic. He describes these draft bets as “chalky”—conservative and low-risk—but potentially profitable. With odds like -475 on over 2.5 quarterbacks taken in the first round and -220 for Sanders to land in the top ten, smart bettors are advised to stay disciplined.

Alternate Scenarios and Trade Dynamics

Essler also entertains possible shake-ups. The Bears at pick ten could be open to trading down. Meanwhile, teams like the Steelers, Washington, and Chargers might pursue rising QBs like Jackson Dart, which could still leave Sanders comfortably available at pick nine without disruption.

Final Thoughts

In a draft climate loaded with speculation and fast-rising prospects, Shedeur Sanders' most strategic and likely destination remains with the New Orleans Saints. The timing, team needs, draft order, and betting odds all intersect at one critical point—pick number nine. While Sanders may not carry the profile of a generational talent, he may be exactly what New Orleans needs in this cycle: a fresh opportunity.

For bettors, draft analysts, and fans alike, the logic adds up. Shedeur Sanders to the Saints? Yes, it just makes sense.