Why Saints Fans Need to Be Patient With Their Second Round QB
The New Orleans Saints have made another bold move at quarterback, deciding to bench rookie Spencer Rattler and hand the reins to fellow second-rounder Tyler Shough for the remainder of the season. Head coach Kellen Moore has made it clear that the team isn’t looking back, signaling full commitment to Shough as the new leader of the offense. While this decision has sparked considerable discussion among fans, it’s essential to remember that both Rattler and Shough are young quarterbacks still adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL. The transition from college to the pros is one of the toughest challenges any player can face, especially at the quarterback position. For that reason, patience, not panic, should be the guiding mindset for Saints fans in the coming weeks.
Tyler Shough has the physical tools and football IQ to develop into a solid starter, but expecting instant results would be unrealistic. Like Rattler, he will likely go through growing pains as he learns to read defenses faster, handle pressure, and build chemistry with his receivers. These mistakes are part of the process and can’t be rushed away. The Saints’ coaching staff and fan base need to support Shough through the inevitable ups and downs, understanding that consistency and confidence often take time to develop. If given the space to make errors and learn from them, Shough could very well grow into the reliable quarterback the Saints have been searching for.
What often gets overlooked in these quarterback transitions is how much the entire team must adjust as well. A new quarterback means changes in timing, play-calling rhythm, and on-field communication, all of which take weeks, not days, to perfect. The offensive line must adapt to Shough’s tendencies in the pocket, and receivers have to learn his throwing style and decision-making habits. Even the coaching staff will need to tailor the playbook to fit his strengths, which can’t happen overnight. It’s unfair to expect instant chemistry or polished execution, and the growing pains that come with these adjustments should be seen as part of a natural progression rather than a sign of failure.
At this stage, the Saints truly have nothing to lose by seeing what they have in Tyler Shough. With their playoff hopes fading, this is the perfect opportunity to evaluate whether Shough can be the long-term answer under center or if the front office should target a quarterback early in the upcoming draft. For Shough, the goal isn’t just to flash potential; it’s to play clean football, make smart reads, and avoid the costly turnovers that plagued Spencer Rattler in his final starts. Protecting the football and showing poise under pressure will go a long way toward earning the trust of both coaches and fans. The next several games are an audition not just for this season, but for the future of the Saints franchise.
In conclusion, while the quarterback carousel in New Orleans may have tested the patience of many fans, the best approach now is to trust the process. Kellen Moore’s commitment to Tyler Shough signals a focus on long-term growth rather than short-term fixes. The Saints must continue to invest in Shough’s development, even if the results don’t come immediately. Both Rattler and Shough represent the future of the franchise, and rushing their progress could set that future back. If the team and its supporters can remain patient and supportive, they may eventually be rewarded with a young quarterback capable of leading the Saints back to prominence.
