New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough delivered a standout 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, showcasing Shough’s critical role in the team’s late-season resurgence. Despite the Saints’ 6-10 record, Shough’s impressive play positions him as a frontrunner for the 2025 Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
Shough’s performance against the Titans was particularly noteworthy. He completed 22 of 27 passes for 333 yards and two touchdowns, achieving his second consecutive game with over 300 passing yards. In the fourth quarter, he excelled, going 5-of-5 for 164 yards, solidifying his ability to perform under pressure. According to Stathead research, Shough became only the second rookie quarterback in history to complete 80 percent of his passes for over 300 yards, multiple touchdowns, and no interceptions in a single game, joining the ranks of Bo Nix of the Denver Broncos.
Shough’s impact has been undeniable since taking over as the starter in Week 9. His record stands at 5-3, turning around a team that began the season with a dismal 1-7 mark. Over his first eight starts, he has thrown for 1,997 yards, averaging 249.6 yards per game, with a completion percentage of 69.6 percent. This completion percentage ranks among the highest for rookie quarterbacks since 2000, trailing only Jayden Daniels and Ben Roethlisberger, both of whom went on to win Rookie of the Year honors.
The Saints’ impressive showing this season can largely be attributed to their strong rookie class. In addition to Shough, left tackle Kelvin Banks has stabilized the offensive line, while safety Jonas Sanker and cornerback Quincy Riley have displayed significant potential in the secondary. Running back Devin Neal also made an impact before being placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury earlier in December.
While Shough has thrived, other contenders for the Offensive Rookie of the Year have struggled. Notably, Tetairoa McMillan of the Carolina Panthers, who was considered a favorite for the award, managed only one catch for five yards in a loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Similarly, Emeka Egbuka of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers recorded just three receptions for 20 yards, and TreVeyon Henderson of the New England Patriots gained a mere three yards on five carries.
As the regular season nears its conclusion, Shough is making a compelling case for Rookie of the Year. With one more game to go, his continued performance could secure the recognition he has earned. The Saints, under the guidance of first-year head coach Kellen Moore, have exceeded expectations during this transitional season, and Shough’s contributions have been pivotal in establishing the team as a rising force in the league.
As the 2025 season wraps up, all eyes will be on Shough as he aims to cap off his remarkable rookie campaign with a strong showing in Week 18, potentially solidifying his status as the league’s top rookie.