Shough’s potential goes far beyond rookie awards

By Ross Jackson

Already named the Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year by fan vote and a finalist for the AP’s Offensive Rookie of the Year award, the excitement around New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough is palpable. 

However, that optimism isn’t just limited to end of year awards and honors. As important as those trophies are in telling the story of a player’s career, it’s the franchise potential Shough brings that has many believing the Saints are back. 

The winningest NFL team from 2017 to 2020, the Saints have been in a playoff drought since and rank T-No. 23 in wins since. But after leading a 4-1 close to the season as the new starting quarterback in New Orleans, Shough’s rookie year could be representative of a turnaround in the Big Easy.

One of the NFL’s best third down and fourth quarter passers in his nine rookie starts, Shough’s ability to create plays, elevate talent and perform in the clutch has generated hopes that New Orleans has its next franchise quarterback.

General manager Mickey Loomis wisely advises to pump the brakes a bit on the expectations, but acknowledged in his end of year press conference with head coach Kellen Moore that the rejuvenation of football intrigue in New Orleans can’t be ignored.

“I’d probably be in a coma if I didn’t recognize that there’s optimism and that’s exciting,” he said. “I want our fans to feel optimistic and have the same vision that we have for our team. So yes, I do feel it. I’m excited about that, just like I’m excited about our team.”

Shough’s arrival and quick ascension are illustrative of the rising tides for the Saints. The organization now must take advantage of the momentum and build around their developing leader. 

With the 2025 second-round selection on a rookie contract, New Orleans has struck gold in the team-building process. The flexibility the quarterback’s contract provides combined with the improving salary cap situation and promising 2025 draft class around him all provide the Saints an opportunity that the team has chased since 2020. 

The end of year awards are stellar, highlighting and help to showcase a stellar year from the rookie. But the vision goes far beyond an Offensive Rookie of the Year trophy with sights truly set on the hopeful pursuit of a Lombardi Trophy instead.