Tyler Shough is making the most of his opportunity under center in New Orleans - and in Week 14, he gave Saints fans a glimpse of the kind of spark he might be able to bring to the franchise moving forward.
In a critical divisional matchup against the Buccaneers, the rookie quarterback delivered a moment that’ll stand out on the game tape - and maybe in the minds of the Saints’ coaching staff as they evaluate the position heading into 2026. With New Orleans deep in the red zone, Shough looked dead to rights.
On a first-and-10 play, Tampa Bay’s defense had him wrapped up in the backfield. But instead of going down, the second-round pick out of Texas Tech broke free, scrambled left, and powered his way into the end zone for a 13-yard touchdown that gave the Saints a 24-17 lead.
That kind of play - gutsy, athletic, and flat-out determined - is exactly what you want to see from a young quarterback trying to stake his claim to a starting role. And while the Bucs responded with a field goal to cut the lead to 24-20, Shough had just under five minutes left to show he could close out a division rival in crunch time.
Outside of the highlight-reel touchdown, Shough’s day has been steady, if not perfect. He’s completed 12 of 18 passes for 131 yards with one interception.
The pick is a blemish, no doubt, but overall, he’s managed the offense with poise and efficiency. He’s also taken three sacks, a reminder that life behind this Saints offensive line isn’t always easy - especially for a young quarterback still adjusting to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses.
Coming into Week 14, Shough had completed 65.2 percent of his passes for 1,068 yards, five touchdowns, and four interceptions. Those numbers don’t scream “franchise QB” just yet, but they show a player who’s been competent - and who’s learning on the job. In a division that’s still up for grabs and a team searching for long-term stability at quarterback, every snap matters.
Of course, one win - even one that features a jaw-dropping touchdown run - won’t singlehandedly lock down the starting job for 2026. Head coach Kellen Moore and the Saints’ front office will take a hard look at the position this offseason. Their spot in the 2026 NFL Draft could influence the direction they go, whether that’s doubling down on Shough’s development or bringing in new competition.
But what’s clear is this: Shough is giving them something to think about. Plays like that 13-yard scramble - where instinct, toughness, and athleticism all come together - don’t just show up on the stat sheet. They show up in film rooms, in locker rooms, and in the minds of decision-makers.
If nothing else, Shough’s performance against the Buccaneers is a reminder that the Saints’ quarterback picture isn’t set in stone - and he’s doing everything he can to etch his name into it.