In what is shaping up to be one of the most turbulent offseasons in recent memory, New Orleans Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis has finally addressed the growing concerns swirling around the team’s bold and controversial 2025 decisions. With the sudden retirement of veteran quarterback Derek Carr, the hiring of rookie head coach Kellen Moore, and a series of eyebrow-raising draft picks, the Saints are clearly swinging for the fences—and Loomis knows it.
“We know what’s at stake,” Loomis said in a candid press conference on Monday. “We’re not blind to the risks, but we’re committed to reshaping this team for long-term success. Sometimes, that means making uncomfortable decisions.”
A Franchise in Transition
The departure of Carr—just two seasons into his stint with the team—sent shockwaves through the fanbase. His unexpected retirement, prompted by lingering shoulder issues and a desire to step away from the physical demands of the game, left the Saints scrambling to fill one of the most critical positions on the field.
Instead of pursuing a veteran in free agency, Loomis and the front office opted to draft Oregon quarterback Tyler Shough in the second round—a move widely regarded as a gamble, considering Shough’s injury history and age (26). Many analysts had projected Shough as a Day 3 selection, and the Saints’ decision to reach for him so early sparked widespread debate.
“Calculated Risks,” Says Loomis
“The quarterback position is the most scrutinized in sports,” Loomis said. “Tyler [Shough] has all the intangibles we value—maturity, leadership, a big arm. Yes, he’s had setbacks, but we believe he can grow under Kellen’s guidance.”
Indeed, the Saints doubled down on potential rather than certainty. The hire of Kellen Moore, previously the offensive coordinator for the Eagles and Cowboys, brings innovation but also inexperience. This is Moore’s first time leading an NFL team, and expectations will be high, especially after the Saints finished 22nd in total offense last season.
Draft Day Drama
Further fueling the criticism was the team’s decision to use their top-10 pick on Kelvin Banks Jr., a left tackle out of Texas. While Banks has potential, most scouts ranked him outside the top 30, and many believed the Saints passed on more impactful players—particularly at cornerback and wide receiver, where depth is desperately needed.
“We addressed positions we felt would shape this team for the next five years,” Loomis added. “We didn’t go for flashy—we went for foundation.”
A Defense in Flux
The Saints also took hits on the defensive side of the ball. Losing cornerback Paulson Adebo in free agency left a noticeable gap in the secondary. The team attempted to compensate by signing veteran safety Justin Reid and defensive lineman Davon Godchaux, while also hoping for a resurgence from injury-prone Chase Young, who re-signed on a short-term deal. They added Oklahoma linebacker Danny Stutsman in the draft, hoping he can bring energy and depth to a defense that has struggled to stay consistent.
A Season Built on “Ifs”
The 2025 Saints are a team built on what-ifs:
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If Shough can stay healthy and adjust to NFL speed.
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If Moore proves to be a fast-learning, culture-changing coach.
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If young talent like Banks and Stutsman develops quickly.
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If the patched-together defense can hold its own in a loaded NFC South.
Those are a lot of variables for a team that missed the playoffs in 2024.
Final Word
Loomis concluded his remarks with both confidence and humility:
“No one has a crystal ball. But we’re not afraid to take bold steps. We know the risks, and we believe the rewards are worth it. This city deserves a contender again, and we’re doing everything in our power to build one.”
Only time will tell if these calculated risks turn into triumph—or regret. For now, the Saints are all in, with no room left for second-guessing.
