Important choices that change the trajectory of a team, a player’s career, or even the league as a whole frequently define the history of football. When the New Orleans Saints had the 11th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, it was one of those moments. The teenage quarterback who would soon become well-known to the public caught the attention of their head coach, Sean Payton: Patrick Mahomes.
According to a recent tweet by Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter), Sean Payton, then head coach of the New Orleans Saints, was highly interested in drafting Patrick Mahomes with the 11th overall pick. However, the Kansas City Chiefs, recognizing Mahomes’ potential, traded up to secure him at number 10. This left the Saints with Ohio State cornerback Marshon Lattimore, a solid player in his own right, but not the generational talent Mahomes has become.
Sean Payton wanted and intended to draft Patrick Mahomes in the 2017 draft, when he held the 11thoverall pick. He was ready to turn in the card. But before he could, the Chiefs traded up to the Bills’ spot at No. 10 and took Mahomes one spot before Payton got him, leaving the… https://t.co/GdsRSCqryx
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 26, 2024
The Patrick Mahomes Evaluation
Sean Payton, known for his offensive acumen, recognized Mahomes’ brilliance early on. The Texas Tech quarterback had dazzled college football with his arm talent, improvisational skills, and ability to make jaw-dropping throws from any angle. Payton watched tape, studied Mahomes’ game, and saw shades of another legendary quarterback—Brett Favre. The young signal-caller’s ability to torque his body and generate speed on the ball without perfect foot placement impressed Payton.
The New Orleans Saints Draft Dilemma
As the draft unfolded, the Saints found themselves in a fortunate yet challenging position. Marshon Lattimore, an elite cornerback out of Ohio State, was still available. The Saints hadn’t anticipated Lattimore falling to them at No. 11. But there he was, a tantalizing prospect who could shore up their secondary. Meanwhile, Mahomes remained on the board, waiting to hear his name called.
A Match Made in Offensive Heaven?
The allure of Mahomes in New Orleans goes beyond his talent. The Saints, under Payton, were known for their innovative and pass-heavy offense. Drew Brees, the team’s longtime quarterback, thrived in this system, consistently putting up eye-popping numbers.
Mahomes, with his gunslinger mentality and ability to extend plays outside the pocket, could have been a perfect fit for this offensive scheme. Imagine the highlight reels filled with Mahomes’ signature no-look throws and pinpoint deep balls to Michael Thomas and Brandin Cooks. The offensive potential of a Payton-Mahomes pairing would have been truly electrifying.
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