New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough has been awarded the 2025 Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year Award, a fan-voted honor celebrating his exceptional debut season. The 24-year-old player, selected No. 40 overall from Louisville, outperformed notable finalists including Jaxson Dart of the New York Giants, Ashton Jeanty of the Las Vegas Raiders, and Tetairoa McMillan from the Carolina Panthers. His victory marks a significant achievement for both him and the franchise, which saw a promising playoff push during the season.
Shough’s inaugural season was marked by remarkable statistics and franchise records. He started just nine games but finished with a 5-4 record as a starter, the best for any rookie quarterback in Saints history. His performance drew admiration for his composure under pressure, achieving a 67.6 percent completion rate, second in passing yards with 2,384, and a passer rating of 91.3. Shough also set new rookie records for the franchise, including 10 touchdowns and the highest completion percentage.
A standout moment came in Week 17 against the Tennessee Titans, where he completed 22 of 27 passes for 333 yards and two touchdowns. This performance made him only the second rookie in NFL history to achieve an 80 percent completion rate, over 300 yards, and a passer rating above 140 in a single game, joining Bo Nix of the Denver Broncos.
His success contributed to a four-game winning streak for New Orleans, the team’s longest since Drew Brees led them in 2020. Shough’s late-season surge earned him the title of NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month, with teammates, including wide receiver Chris Olave, vocally supporting his candidacy for the Associated Press award.
Shough’s journey to the Saints was not straightforward. After starting his college career at Texas Tech, he moved to Oregon and then to Louisville, where he accumulated 10,641 yards and 77 touchdowns. Despite battling injuries, he showcased his potential, leading the Saints to take a chance on him in the second round. His midseason emergence was a turning point, with his debut start culminating in a game-winning drive highlighted by a 60-yard touchdown pass to Olave.
The Pepsi award reflects Shough’s strong connection with the New Orleans fan base. “I am truly humbled and honored,” Shough stated after receiving the award. “Coming in as a rookie, my goal was to do anything I could to contribute to our team’s success… This award is truly a reflection of all of their hard work.” His teammates echoed this sentiment, with Devin Neal and Olave both expressing their support for Shough’s recognition.
Even legends of the franchise, such as Hall of Famer Rickey Jackson and former quarterback Bobby Hebert, praised Shough for his grit and adaptability. The Saints had not claimed an offensive or defensive rookie honor since Alvin Kamara and Marshon Lattimore in 2017, making Shough’s achievement noteworthy.
As the Saints look forward to the upcoming season, Shough’s performance has sparked optimism. His statistics, including a completion rate of 67.8 percent and 212.5 yards per game, positioned him as a contender, and his resilience in the face of adversity has drawn praise from analysts.
The Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year Award is a significant accolade, emphasizing fan engagement and highlighting players who have made substantial impacts on the field. Past winners have included notable players like Ja’Marr Chase and Jahmyr Gibbs, establishing a tradition of recognizing emerging talent.
Shough’s mental toughness has been a distinguishing factor in his success. He navigated challenges, including a changing offensive line and the absence of key players, without hesitation. “Expectations remain high no matter who plays,” he noted, attributing his success to a strong team culture.
As the Saints prepare for the future, Shough’s trajectory is promising. With aspirations for the upcoming 2026 season, he is poised to lead the team alongside rising stars like Olave and Audric Estime. His recent accolades have set the stage for potential further achievements, including the upcoming Associated Press award.
In a city where football is integral to its identity, Shough’s presence represents hope for the Saints’ future. His gratitude towards the fans resonates deeply, and as he gears up for the next chapter, he remains focused on delivering success for the team. “I can’t wait to see where we go from here!” he concluded, encapsulating the excitement surrounding his rookie season and the possibilities that lie ahead.
