Tyler Shough: Saints never formally named me starting quarterback

Tyler Shough is entering training camp as the clear starting quarterback of the New Orleans Saints. But there was never a dramatic moment when the organization officially handed him the job. Instead, the second-year quarterback approached the offseason determined to take control of the role himself.

Asked by NFL Network’s Jane Slater how he learned he would be the Saints’ starter in 2026, Shough explained that there was no formal declaration. His focus was never on hearing the title. It was on proving that he could handle everything that came with it.

“This year, I think for me, I wanted to take it fully by the reins, and there wasn’t necessarily like, ‘Hey, you’re the starter,'” Shough said. “It was an expectation of how do we keep elevating. So I think I just wanted to do everything I can to make sure that I’m getting better and they can count on me.”

Although his finish to last season positioned him to lead the offense, Shough is not approaching the job as though anything has been guaranteed. He said he still has “a lot to prove” after appearing in only nine games as a rookie. At the same time, the experience he gained has made the beginning of his second training camp feel more comfortable.

Shough’s offseason focus: growing as a leader and becoming “the guy that everybody can depend on.” It’s the same mindset he described when discussing the starting job.

Rather than waiting for the Saints to formally name him the face of the offense, Shough has ensured he earns the role through his leadership and actions. If New Orleans takes a step forward this season, that mentality could be one of the biggest reasons.

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