Saints’ continuity fuels Shough, veteran QB still possible

By Ross Jackson

There have been a few success stories this offseason around the New Orleans Saints and their developmental bedrock in place for quarterback Tyler Shough. 

The team retained its offseason coaching staff, highlighted by quarterbacks coach Scott Tolzien, who was up for the offensive coordinator role with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The ripple effect keeps intact the cohort that was able to get immediate success from the passer during his rookie season. 

By also retaining tight ends coach Chase Haslett, Shough’s weapons across the board will be working with the same coaches from 2025, guaranteeing consistency and cohesion throughout the process. 

Another way the Saints could continue to help their franchise hopeful is by adding another veteran passer to the quarterback room. 

With uncertainty around quarterback Taysom Hill’s future in New Orleans, the investment in additional experience could become a necessity. Hill’s contract is set to void on March 10,  the day before the new league year begins. 

The versatile offensive weapon doesn’t often get mentioned when others discuss the leadership in the quarterback role. New Orleans famously entered the 2025 season with a room of young passers led by a coaching staff of former NFL quarterbacks. But in truth, the team had a veteran presence in Hill all along. 

“Taysom, he’s a veteran,” Shough said back during training camp. “He’s been such a great resource for me and learning from all those guys.”

Adding in the departure of 2023 draft pick Jake Haener, the Saints could find themselves in the market for a veteran quarterback to add to the room alongside Shough and third-year signal caller Spencer Rattler. 

Rattler will be a valuable asset as well, a quarterback that’s started games in the same system. But seeking additional experience would make a lot of sense.