The New Orleans Saints are looking towards an exciting future, especially after a promising conclusion to the 2025 season for quarterback Tyler Shough. His performance has drawn the attention and support of former Saints quarterback Archie Manning, who has witnessed Shough’s development firsthand through his participation in the Manning Passing Academy.
During a recent appearance on WWL Radio, Manning praised Shough’s potential but cautioned fans against prematurely celebrating his accomplishments. “He knows he’s got a long way to go,” Manning remarked to host Mike Detillier, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations. He acknowledged Shough’s contributions as a solid offensive rookie but stressed that he still has much to learn and achieve.
Shough’s rise to prominence came after spending the initial part of the 2025 season as a backup to quarterback Spencer Rattler. During this challenging stretch, the Saints faced tough competition, including six playoff-bound teams, while Rattler struggled to secure wins. It wasn’t until Week 9 that Shough took over, leading the team to a notable four-game winning streak against formidable opponents such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers, who were also vying for the division title.
Statistics from Shough’s tenure reveal he completed 67.6% of his passes for 2,384 yards, tossing 10 touchdowns and six interceptions, while adding another 183 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. His ability to uplift the team’s performance has instilled newfound confidence, according to Manning. He noted, “He sure did some good things in the latter part of the season… I think that built some confidence.” Manning also highlighted Shough’s humility and eagerness to improve, affirming his belief that Shough could be the key player the Saints need for future success.
As an indicator of his impressive play, Shough has been named one of five finalists for the 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year award, with the winner to be announced soon. This recognition further solidifies his position as a promising asset for the Saints moving forward.