Dec 28, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) passes against the Tennessee Titans during the first half of the game at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough delivered a remarkable performance on December 31, 2025, leading his team to a 34-26 comeback victory against the Tennessee Titans. This win marks the Saints’ fourth consecutive triumph and places Shough firmly in the conversation for the 2025 Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
In a matchup against 2025’s first overall draft pick, Cam Ward, Shough showcased his skills with a standout game. He completed 22 of 27 passes for 333 yards and two touchdowns, with an impressive fourth-quarter performance where he went 5-of-5 for 164 yards. His efficiency was notable, as he became just the second rookie quarterback in history to achieve over 300 passing yards, multiple touchdowns, and an 80 percent completion rate in a single game, joining Bo Nix of the Denver Broncos.
Shough’s recent success has been pivotal for the Saints, who have transformed from a struggling 1-7 team to a competitive 6-10 record under his leadership. Since taking over as the starting quarterback, he has compiled 1,997 passing yards, averaging 249.6 yards per game, with a commendable completion rate of 69.6 percent. This performance places him among the elite rookie quarterbacks, with only Jayden Daniels and Ben Roethlisberger boasting higher completion percentages in their first eight starts since 2000.
Shough’s Impact on the Saints’ Season
The Saints’ late-season surge under first-year head coach Kellen Moore has exceeded expectations, demonstrating significant growth in a transitional year. The team’s rookie class has played a crucial role, with Shough leading the charge. His contributions have been complemented by the performances of left tackle Kelvin Banks, safety Jonas Sanker, and cornerback Quincy Riley, who have all shown promise.
Despite the team’s playoff absence this season, Shough’s accomplishments reflect the potential of a rising franchise. His ability to stabilize the offense has revitalized the team and provided a foundation for future success.
As the season approaches its conclusion, Shough’s candidacy for the Rookie of the Year award looks increasingly compelling. Other contenders, such as Tetairoa McMillan of the Carolina Panthers and Emeka Egbuka from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, have struggled in recent games, further solidifying Shough’s position as a leading candidate.
In the Panthers’ recent loss to the Seattle Seahawks, McMillan registered only one catch for five yards. Meanwhile, Egbuka managed just three receptions for 20 yards in a loss to the Miami Dolphins. TreVeyon Henderson of the New England Patriots also faced difficulties, gaining only three yards on five carries against the Baltimore Ravens.
Shough’s ability to finish the season strong could ultimately determine the OROY honors. If he continues this momentum into Week 18, he may well cap off his rookie season with a significant accolade, highlighting both his individual talent and the promising future of the New Orleans Saints.
