Tyler Shough Poised as Saints’ Starting Quarterback for 2026
The New Orleans Saints are placing their trust in Tyler Shough, their second-round pick from the 2025 NFL Draft, as the starting quarterback for the 2026 season. After spending 2025 as a backup, Shough now has a full offseason and training camp to prepare, unlike the previous season’s quarterback battle. During Super Bowl week in February, Shough shared with Fox News Digital his enthusiasm for having extra time to learn head coach Kellen Moore’s offensive system. He attributed much of his progress to an ‘incredible mentor’ after being drafted by New Orleans.
Tyler Shough faced challenges early in 2026, including an interception against the Atlanta Falcons on January 4. Nevertheless, Drew Brees, a Saints legend newly inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, saw promise in Shough’s performance. Brees praised Shough’s leadership in organizing offseason workouts and getting the team ready for camp.
At 25, Shough entered the NFL from Louisville, having played for three different college programs over seven years. While some viewed this as a setback, Brees saw it as valuable experience. Brees stated, ‘Tyler is mature beyond his years. He overcomes adversity, which taught him gratitude.’ His time at Louisville under Jeff Brohm, a former Purdue coach and NFL quarterback, helped him believe in his NFL potential.
The Saints initially selected Spencer Rattler as their starting quarterback for the 2025 season, but Moore switched to Shough by Week 9. Shough ended the season with a 5-4 record, including a four-game winning streak, boosting optimism in New Orleans. Brees believed Shough’s time on the sidelines allowed him to learn, saying, ‘Sitting for half the season lets you observe. When you step in, you feel it’s your time. He improved weekly and has the build and talent, resembling Josh Allen.’
The Saints invested in their offense, signing Chris Olave long-term and drafting Jordyn Tyson, despite Tyson’s hamstring injury. The team added Travis Etienne Jr. and kept Alvin Kamara and Juwan Johnson. Their strong offensive line also includes recent first-round tackles. Under Moore, a skilled play-caller, the Saints aim to support Shough’s upward trajectory.
Beyond football, Brees is part-owner of Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux, a rapidly growing sports bar franchise. Started in Louisiana, it now boasts over 80 locations. Brees emphasizes providing access to any game anytime through DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS, including NFL Sunday Ticket, for 300,000 bars and restaurants nationwide.
Brees highlights Walk-On’s focus on Louisiana-inspired dishes and a family-friendly atmosphere. Thanks to DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS, fans can watch college and pro events, including basketball, baseball, and hockey, keeping energy and excitement high. Through sportsbarfinder.com, fans can locate DIRECTV-equipped venues across the country, enhancing camaraderie among sports fans.