### Saints Turn to Rookie Tyler Shough as Starting Quarterback Amidst Struggles The New Orleans Saints have officially named rookie quarterback Tyler Shough as their starter for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season, following a disappointing 1-7 start under Spencer Rattler. Head coach Kellen Moore made the decision after Rattler's inconsistent performance, which included a recent 23-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers where he was benched in favor of Shough. This change marks a significant shift in the Saints' strategy as they look to revitalize their offense and potentially secure a better future in the upcoming NFL Draft, where they are projected to have a high pick in 2026 [https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/new-orleans-saints/news/saints-predicted-replace-spencer-rattler-tyler-shough-2026/36fa6453040e596715f464bf]. ### Breakdown of the Situation and Implications 1. **Quarterback Change**: - Tyler Shough, a second-round draft pick from Louisville, has been promoted to starting quarterback after Rattler's struggles [https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/saints-turn-to-tyler-shough-as-starting-qb-spencer-rattler-moves-to-bench-for-new-orleans-per-report]. - Shough's first start is scheduled against the Los Angeles Rams, a team currently performing well with a 5-2 record [https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/sports/nfl/saints-rookie-tyler-shough-to-make-1st-career-start-vs-rams-in-week-9]. 2. **Coaching Decisions**: - Kellen Moore emphasized that the team will not revert back to Rattler, indicating a commitment to Shough for the remainder of the season [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/kellen_moore_names_tyler_shough_saints_starting_qb/s1_17256_42989670]. - The decision comes after a series of poor performances from Rattler, who had thrown for 1,586 yards with eight touchdowns and five interceptions but struggled to lead the team to victories [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/saints_bench_spencer_rattler_rookie_tyler_shough_to_start/s1_17615_42976603]. 3. **Future Considerations**: - The Saints are in a rebuilding phase, and Shough's performance will be critical in determining the team's direction moving forward, especially with the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon [https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/new-orleans-saints/news/saints-kellen-moore-commits-tyler-shough-rest-season-starter/e2b8f2ddc6481b2280d07dc2]. - Analysts speculate that Shough's success could influence the Saints' draft strategy, potentially leading them to focus on other positions if he proves to be a viable long-term option [https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nfl/new-orleans-saints/news/saints-qb-depth-chart-tyler-shough-starter-spencer-rattler/26d63f09ea37cedf3bf58f6f]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Spencer Rattler's Performance**: - Rattler's statistics included 1,586 passing yards, 8 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions over eight games, but the team managed only one win [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/saints_bench_spencer_rattler_rookie_tyler_shough_to_start/s1_17615_42976603]. - **Tyler Shough's Background**: - Shough was drafted 40th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft and has a collegiate record of 7,820 passing yards, 59 touchdowns, and 23 interceptions across seven seasons [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/saints_starting_second_round_qb_tyler_shough_in_week_9/s1_17039_42975923]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for the Saints In summary, the New Orleans Saints are embarking on a new chapter with Tyler Shough as their starting quarterback. This decision reflects a broader strategy to rebuild and assess the team's future, particularly as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft. The upcoming games will be crucial for Shough to demonstrate his capabilities and for the Saints to evaluate their long-term plans. 1. **Quarterback Transition**: Shough replaces Rattler as the starter. 2. **Coaching Commitment**: Moore confirms no further changes at QB for the season. 3. **Future Implications**: Shough's performance could shape the Saints' draft strategy. The Saints are hopeful that this bold move will spark a turnaround in their season and provide a clearer path forward [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/saints_ignite_new_era_with_bold_quarterback_switch_as_shough_gets_shot_to_spark_season_turnaround/s1_17396_42976823].