An NFL executive just dropped a bomb about New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough, saying there’s “no young quarterback better set up for success” than him this season. Yeah, you read that right. Scouts and execs around the league are buzzing, routinely mentioning Shough as *the* rising star to watch in 2026 after his rookie season.
The Sophomore Leap Is Coming, Folks
Last year, the Saints were apparently even a little unsure what they had in their second-round pick Shough. But by the time the season wrapped, it was clear: they found their QB of the future. He made only nine starts, but one scout didn’t mince words, calling him the “best rookie quarterback last year.” Now, heading into Year 2, with Kellen Moore, a “brilliant offensive mind,” leading the charge, the expectation is he’s gonna be even better. This isn’t just hope, it’s a solid prediction based on talent meeting opportunity.
Loaded Offense, With One Early Season Snag
That executive wasn’t kidding about being set up for success. Shough’s got serious weapons: wide receiver Chris Olave and tight end Juwan Johnson were already there. And check this, Travis Etienne is apparently a “terrific running back,” way better than Alvin Kamara is at this stage. You put all that together in what’s being called a “bad division,” and the Saints could “surprise some people.” His numbers? They “could pop.”
There’s one snag though: rookie wideout Jordyn Tyson, who some think “might be the best receiver in the draft,” is out. A hamstring injury means he’s sidelined for at least the first four weeks, maybe even until mid-October. That’s a “blow for sure,” as one scout put it, but they still think there’s “enough there for Shough to grow.”
Last Season’s Flashes, This Season’s Promise
He showed flashes last season, even with the team finishing 6-11. They were only two games out of first place, so that 6-11 record wasn’t as far off as it sounds. Shough completed 67.6 percent of his passes for 2,384 yards, 10 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Plus, he’s got a little mobility, adding 186 rushing yards and three touchdowns. That scout who crowned him the best rookie QB acknowledged Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart might be a “true dual-threat,” but Shough’s “ability to be an outstanding passer” is undeniable. The executive expects a big step forward this year, especially after a full season in Moore’s offense. He was “poised and efficient and really ran that offe[nse].”
So, keep your eyes glued to Tyler Shough and the Saints. This isn’t just a hopeful guess, this is what league insiders are saying. What will he do with this loaded offense? The early season games are gonna tell us everything about how high this kid can fly.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Fox Sports.
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