June 1, 2025

With the 40th overall pick in the second round of this year's NFL Draft, the New Orleans Saints selected 25-year-old quarterback Tyler Shoughout of the University of Louisville. Notably, Shough was the oldest player taken in the 2025 draft. His college career spanned seven years and three schools: two seasons at Oregon, three at Texas Tech, and a final year at Louisville. Despite a journey marked by setbacks, including two broken collarbones and a broken fibula, Shough flashed the tools of an NFL-caliber quarterback. Shough's 2024 transfer to Louisville marked his first full, uninterrupted season where he truly stood out. Starting 12 games for the Cardinals, he threw for 3,195 yards and 23 touchdowns while leading the team to an 8-4 record, his most productive season yet. Now in New Orleans, Shough finds himself in a prime position. Derek Carr (shoulder) unexpectedly retired this offseason, leaving the Saints' starting quarterback position up for grabs. As a mature, battle-tested rookie with pro-level tools and leadership qualities, Shough can earn the Saints' starting quarterback position if he can outperform Spencer Rattler this offseason. If Shough wins the starting job and can stay healthy, he'll have plenty of upside with weapons like Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara, and Rashid Shaheed at his disposal. Shough is currently QB33 in the latest RotoBaller redraft rankings and QB5 in our updated rookie ranks, making him more of a dynasty/superflex option heading into fantasy football drafts this summer.--Jp Sticco - RotoBaller