Tyler Shough has the makings to be the New Orleans Saints' next franchise quarterback. The winning record as a starter last year makes success feel tangible. The way the Saints offense looked completely different helped Shough pass the eye test. Erik McCoy's latest quote essentially was the last piece of the puzzle. Shough is already stepping up as a leader.
Franchise quarterbacks need to be more than just a good player. The skillset on the field is obviously the most important part. If you don't perform, nothing else matters. However, the best franchise quarterbacks also have the intangibles that expand beyond the field.
It's been clear that Shough is an aware and likable guy. He's gone on a media tour this year, and everyone seems to gravitate towards him. He's embraced the city of New Orleans from participating in Mardi Gras parades to comments about the cuisine. Those traits connect him and his teammates as well.
Tyler Shough is stepping up as the leader the Saints need
McCoy said Shough is "one of the boys." That's not the case with every quarterback. That relatability may sound sappy, but being able to connect with teammates is a huge part of leadership. Being charismatic and funny is great for interviews, but it does have its perks as a leader of men.
Leadership and confidence are the biggest changes McCoy sees in Shough from last year to this year. He went from a player who would occasionally take command of the huddle as a rookie to someone who is fully in command of the huddle.
Shough knows when to flip the switch too. During a practice period, Shough demanded they run back the entire drill because they weren't executing well. McCoy acknowledged how rare that is in the New Orleans heat. As a leader, however, Shough took it upon himself to set the standard. It's a great sign that he's truly stepping into his own as the leader of the team.
Leadership and confidence is something Armstead has noticed in Shough as well. Shough joined The Set earlier this offseason, and he made an impression on Armstead. "He's impressive," Armstead told McCoy. "His presence. He's confident. He's sure of himself. His accountability is fire."
One thing is clear. Shough has the intangibles. He's more than just a likable guy. He's a leader. It doesn't get as much attention as arm talent, which Shough has, but leadership is a large part of being a franchise quarterback. Shough showed what he had on the field last year, and now he's checking the other important box.
Add us as a preferred source on Google