The New Orleans Saints haven't had to deal with changes at the quarterback position for a long time, thanks to the longevity of Drew Brees and some other veterans throughout the years.
They've rarely relied upon a rookie quarterback to lead them this season, and Tyler Shough, who was selected in the second round, has impressed thus far.
Against the Carolina Panthers in Week 15, Shough set a franchise rookie record. As noted by Jeff Bell on Twitter/X before the game, Shough was closing in on a rookie record, and in the fourth quarter, he hit it.
Saints' Tyler Shough makes rookie QB franchise history vs. Panthers in Week 15
"The Saints' rookie passing record is by far the funniest rookie passing mark." Bell posted. "Prior to 2024, Archie Manning held it with 1,164 yards. Spencer Rattler broke it, totaling 1,317. Tyler Shough has 1,212."
This meant that all Shough needed to do was reach 115 yards in the Week 15 matchup against the Panthers. While Shough wasn't playing great for the majority of the game, he did wind up reaching this record in the fourth quarter.
On an18 18-yard pass to Kevin Austin Jr., Shough reached 128 total passing yards on the day, officially surpassing Archie Manning and Spencer Rattler for the most passing yards by any Saints rookie quarterback in franchise history.
It's a goofy record for Shough, as the Saints' rookie quarterbacks haven't been abundant over the years. It's a small record to break, but it does highlight how Shough has a case to have the best season by any Saints rookie quarterback.
More: Is Tyler Shough making a case to be Saints' long-term answer at quarterback?
The Saints took the 26-year-old quarterback in the second round of the NFL Draft, and while they faced some criticism for the selection, Shough has impressed this season and could be the answer for New Orleans in 2026 and beyond.
Coming into this Week 15 matchup, Shough had 1,212 passing yards with five touchdowns and five interceptions. His Week 14 upset against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was very impressive and sparked hope that he could be the future QB for the Saints.
Even after that performance, Shough still needed to prove his worth. This Week 15 performance helps, and with three more weeks to go, Shough can give the Saints a reason to give him one more chance in 2026.
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