New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough is being widely discussed by NFL scouts and executives as a potential breakout star for the 2026 season. Several league insiders believe Shough is uniquely positioned for success in his second year, citing his performance in limited starts last season and the offensive talent surrounding him.
One NFL executive told Fox News that no young quarterback is "better set up for success" than Shough, pointing to the addition of offensive-minded head coach Kellen Moore and the team's receiving corps, which includes Chris Olave and Juwan Johnson. The executive also noted the potential impact of new running back Travis Etienne.
Shough, a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, completed 67.6% of his passes for 2,384 yards, 10 touchdowns, and six interceptions in nine starts last season. He also added 186 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Despite a hamstring injury to rookie receiver Jordyn Tyson, who is expected to miss at least the first four weeks of the season, evaluators believe Shough has enough support to continue his development.
Ralph Vacchiano, writing for Fox News, noted that Shough was the best rookie quarterback from the 2025 class, even with his limited starts. An NFC scout echoed this sentiment, stating, "I don’t think there was a better rookie quarterback last year." The scout added that Shough has the potential to be an outstanding passer and is in good hands with Moore.
Shough's college career at Louisville, under head coach Jeff Brohm, demonstrated his durability and leadership. After transferring from Oregon and Texas Tech due to injuries, Shough led Louisville to a 9-4 record in 2024, completing 63% of his passes for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns, and six interceptions. Brohm highlighted Shough's grit and ability to lead without blaming others.
"He lasted all year," Brohm said of Shough's durability at Louisville. "He did a great job and played well in games. He was a good leader, had a good arm. He’s a natural leader and guys liked him."
Shough's performance at the NFL Combine, including a 4.63-second 40-yard dash, further boosted his draft stock. Brohm expressed confidence in Shough's NFL prospects, noting that his transition from backup to starter in New Orleans was a testament to his earned opportunity.
Beyond Shough, two Chicago Bears players are also generating buzz. An NFC scout believes wide receiver Luther Burden III and tight end Colston Loveland could become "elite" players under offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. The scout suggested Burden could surpass Rome Odunze as the team's top receiver due to his reliable hands and strength.
Loveland, a top-10 pick in the 2025 draft, showed significant improvement late last season. After a slow start, he recorded 28 catches for 378 yards and two touchdowns in his final four games, including two playoff contests. Burden, while posting modest numbers, had a high catch rate and is expected to see an increased target share.
"Johnson is going to lean on those two," the scout said of Burden and Loveland. "Let the defenses target Rome. Those are the two guys that will kill you."