New Orleans is buzzing with news after the recent retirement of Derek Carr, the Saints quarterback, who decided to hang up his cleats on May 10. Carr’s decision came as a surprise to many fans and analysts, but rookie quarterback Tyler Shough had some advance notice from head coach Kellen Moore. This early heads-up helped Shough prepare for the media after the announcement.
Shough expressed his thoughts on Carr’s retirement, which was mainly due to a shoulder injury. “Kellen told me before he announced it in practice, which was good, just cause I think I had media later that day, so I didn’t want to go in blind,” Shough shared during an appearance on the St. Brown Podcast. He emphasized the word “opportunity” and acknowledged how much he could learn from Carr, a seasoned player who has performed at a high level in the NFL.
Although Carr’s exit was shocking, the arrival of Shough was also surprising, as he was selected in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the overall No. 40 pick. At 25 years old, Shough is not your typical rookie. Having previously backed up Justin Herbert at Oregon before stints at Texas Tech and Louisville, Shough has faced numerous challenges, including injuries. He’s now stepping into a role where he needs to prove himself under pressure.
Reflecting on his journey, Shough said, “I’ve been carted off the field, I’ve been booed, I’ve been an MVP, I’ve been a starter, I’ve been a backup to Herbert — I’m like, throw some s— at me, you’re not going to faze me if we start off 0-2 or I f—— suck.” His confidence shines through, as he’s eager to embrace any challenges that come his way.
Shough is currently in a competitive battle for the starting quarterback position against Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. He aims to become only the second rookie quarterback to start a Week 1 game for the Saints, the first since Archie Manning in 1971. Despite the uncertainty, Shough is grateful for the opportunity and is ready to earn the respect of his teammates.
He remarked, “I think it’s just, you know you look back, what are you willing to sacrifice at that position? If you would have told me as a 20-year-old, you’re going to get drafted, but you are going to have to wait four or five years and you’re going to break your bones three times… but if you just stay at it then I would have done it and I did.”
With Carr’s unexpected decision and Shough’s readiness to take the reins, the Saints’ season ahead promises to be filled with excitement and uncertainty. New Orleans fans are eager to see how Shough will navigate his role as a rookie quarterback and what the future holds for their team.
