The New Orleans Saints are entering the 2025 NFL season at a crossroads, with a new quarterback competition set to define the franchise’s direction.
It could have a big impact in the view of ESPN’s Field Yates ranking the biggest impact rookies throughout the NFL.
The retirement of veteran Derek Carr has left a void under center, and all eyes are now on rookie Tyler Shough, selected with the 40th overall pick, as he prepares to compete for the starting role.
With Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener also in the mix, the Saints’ quarterback room is suddenly one of the league’s most intriguing storylines.
New beginning at quarterback
The Saints’ decision to invest a high second-round pick in Shough signals their intent to give him every opportunity to become the team’s long-term answer at quarterback.
Shough brings an impressive résumé from college, including 32 career starts and 23 touchdown passes in his final season.
His combination of arm strength, field vision, and mobility gives the Saints a dynamic skill set that they haven’t seen in recent years.
“He’s got the foundation to be an impressive NFL starter,” one observer noted, highlighting Shough’s ability to read defenses and extend plays with his legs.
These traits are particularly valuable for a Saints offense that is still searching for its post-Drew Brees identity.
The Opportunity and the Challenge
While the Saints’ roster may not be perfectly tailored for immediate rookie quarterback success, the organization appears committed to giving Shough a true shot at the job. With Carr’s retirement, the competition is wide open.
Shough’s main rivals, Rattler and Haener, each bring their own strengths, but Shough’s college experience and physical tools could give him the edge.
The Saints’ offensive line and receiving corps will need to step up to support a young quarterback.
The team has invested in versatile playmakers and is expected to lean on a balanced attack to ease Shough’s transition.
The coaching staff’s willingness to adapt the playbook to Shough’s strengths-particularly his mobility and quick decision-making-will be crucial.
Building for the Future
For New Orleans, the 2025 season is about more than just wins and losses; it’s about establishing a foundation for the future.
If Shough can seize the starting job and show growth throughout the season, the Saints will have taken a significant step toward stability at the game’s most important position.
Shough’s development will be closely watched, not only by Saints fans but by the entire NFL.
His performance in training camp and preseason will set the tone, but the real test will come under the bright lights of the regular season.
With the right support and a patient approach, Shough has the tools to become a fixture in New Orleans for years to come.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL season marks a turning point for the New Orleans Saints.
Tyler Shough’s arrival brings hope and uncertainty in equal measure, but the potential for a new franchise quarterback is reason enough for optimism.
As the Saints embark on this new chapter, all eyes will be on Shough to see if he can lead the team into a new era of success.