New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson breaks down in tears and regret as She explained why the Saints did not Draft QB Shedeur Sanders Following QB Derek Carr retirement…

 

Saints owner, Gayle Benson Creates Community Assistance Fund - Canal Street Chronicles

In an emotional press conference held at the Saints’ training facility in Metairie, Louisiana, team owner Gayle Benson broke down in tears as she addressed the team’s controversial decision not to draft quarterback Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 NFL Draft. Her emotional remarks followed a week of criticism from Saints fans and analysts alike, especially after veteran quarterback Derek Carr announced his retirement just days before the draft.

“I can’t begin to explain how heavy my heart is right now,” Benson said, voice trembling and tears welling in her eyes. “This franchise means everything to me, to this city, and to our fans. And I know how much promise and excitement surrounded the idea of Shedeur Sanders coming to New Orleans.”

Sanders, the talented and poised quarterback from Colorado and the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, was one of the most talked-about prospects leading up to the draft. With Carr stepping away from the game, many assumed the Saints would use their first-round pick to secure their quarterback of the future — and Shedeur seemed like a perfect fit both on and off the field.

“I regret how things unfolded,” Benson admitted. “We had internal discussions, lots of them. Coaches, scouts, executives — they all had different views. And while I ultimately respect our football operations’ decisions, I also carry the burden of those decisions as the owner.”

Benson explained that the Saints’ front office leaned toward addressing other roster gaps with their top pick, believing they could either trade for a veteran or select a quarterback in later rounds. That plan backfired when Shedeur was taken earlier than expected by another team, leaving the Saints without a clear successor to Carr.

“I’ve always tried to listen to the experts around me, but at the same time, I have instincts, too,” Benson said through tears. “And my instinct told me Shedeur had something special — not just as a quarterback, but as a leader. Someone who could grow into the heart of this team the way Drew Brees once did.”

Her voice broke as she added, “We missed that opportunity.”

Benson also acknowledged the emotional connection that fans in New Orleans had with the idea of Shedeur becoming a Saint. “He represents more than just talent. He represents a new era, culture, and pride. I know our fans saw that. And I feel I let them down.”

While she reiterated her confidence in the coaching staff and front office, Benson hinted that the franchise may reevaluate how much weight ownership has in future personnel decisions. “This moment taught me a lot. Sometimes, you have to fight harder for what your heart tells you is right.”

She concluded the press conference by thanking fans for their passion and patience, promising that the Saints were still committed to building a winning and inspiring team for the future. But it was clear the moment would remain a painful “what if” in Saints history — and in Benson’s heart.