UPDATE: In a thrilling announcement, New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough has just been awarded the 2025 Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year honor. This fan-voted accolade recognizes his incredible debut season, which saw him lead the Saints to a surprising playoff push while breaking multiple franchise records.
The 24-year-old standout edged out fierce competitors like Jaxson Dart of the New York Giants, Ashton Jeanty from the Las Vegas Raiders, and Tetairoa McMillan of the Carolina Panthers. Shough’s journey from an unheralded draft pick to a New Orleans hero has captivated fans and analysts alike.
Shough, selected No. 40 overall in the draft from Louisville, completed a remarkable 67.6 percent of his passes, amassing 2,384 passing yards and posting a passer rating of 91.3. His performance solidified his place in history as the first rookie QB in Saints history to achieve a 5-4 record as a starter. This milestone was especially impressive given he didn’t claim the starting role until Week 9 due to injuries affecting the team.
His breakout moment came in a signature performance against the Tennessee Titans in Week 17, where he completed 22 of 27 passes for 333 yards and two touchdowns, making him only the second rookie ever to achieve an 81.5 percent completion rate, 300+ yards, and a 140-plus passer rating in a single game. This stellar outing contributed to a four-game win streak for the Saints—New Orleans’ longest since the 2020 Drew Brees era—keeping them in contention for the NFC South title until the final weekend.
Shough’s momentum led to him earning the title of NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month, with teammates rallying behind him. Wide receiver Chris Olave passionately supported Shough’s bid for the award, stating, “Oh yeah, it should be Tyler after this game. He went crazy today.”
The award reflects not just Shough’s talent, but also the deep connection he forged with the Who Dat Nation. “I am truly humbled and honored,” Shough stated, crediting his teammates, coaches, and fans for their support throughout the season.
Shough’s path to the NFL was fraught with challenges, having transferred from Texas Tech to Oregon and finally to Louisville, where he compiled over 10,641 yards and 77 touchdowns amidst injuries. The Saints took a gamble on Shough, and he has repaid that faith while showcasing impressive arm strength and decision-making skills.
Despite facing a depleted offensive line and the absence of stars like Alvin Kamara, Shough’s ability to navigate adversity has been commendable. His resilience and mental toughness set him apart in a league where expectations are sky-high.
As the Saints prepare for what lies ahead, they look to build on Shough’s success. Analysts project him as a key player in their quest for NFC South dominance in 2026, especially with the potential of an Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year accolade on the horizon, to be revealed at the NFL Honors tonight in San Francisco.
With the Saints’ franchise seeking a new identity post-Brees, Shough embodies a beacon of hope and excitement. His gratitude resonates deeply with the passionate New Orleans fanbase: “Your unbelievable passion… inspires all of us.”
As the buzz continues around Shough, expect to see him not just as a player but as a cornerstone of the Saints’ future, potentially leading them to a Super Bowl appearance. The excitement is palpable, and the Pepsi Rookie of the Year award is just the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary career.
