Fans Declare Saints’ Tyler Shough as NFL’s Top Rookie Quarterback
Tyler Shough, the quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, has been recognized as the 2025 Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year. This announcement came from NFL officials on Thursday following a league-conducted online poll. The honor marks the 24th year of this prestigious award.
Competition Overview
Shough faced strong competition from several notable finalists:
- Jaxson Dart – New York Giants quarterback
- Tetairoa McMillan – Carolina Panthers receiver
- TreVeyon Henderson – New England Patriots running back
- Carson Schwesinger – Cleveland Browns linebacker
- Ashton Jeanty – Las Vegas running back
Tyler Shough’s Performance
In his nine starts during the season, Shough led the Saints to a 5-4 record. His performance distinguished him among rookie quarterbacks:
- Highest completion percentage: 67.6%
- Second-most passing yards: 2,384
- Second-highest passer rating: 91.3
He also set multiple franchise records for the Saints, establishing benchmarks for:
- Most passing yards
- Most passing touchdowns (10)
- Highest completion percentage by a rookie
Reflection on Achievement
Expressing his gratitude, Shough stated, “I’m truly humbled and honored to be chosen for this award.” He emphasized the collective effort of his teammates and coaches, stating that their hard work played a crucial role in his success. Shough also acknowledged the support from the passionate Saints fans, mentioning how their dedication inspires the team.
Milestone Moment
In a standout performance during Week 17, Shough made history by becoming the second rookie ever to achieve:
- A completion percentage of 80% or higher (81.5%)
- At least 300 passing yards (333)
- A passer rating of 140 or higher (142.7)
He joined Bo Nix, who accomplished similar feats in November and January 2025 with the Denver Broncos.
Looking Ahead
As Tyler Shough celebrates his accolades, he remains focused on future successes with the Saints. His recognition as NFL’s top rookie quarterback sets a promising tone for the upcoming seasons.
