There’s a different kind of energy in New Orleans this spring. Not the thump of a second-line parade, but something more uncertain—like a drumroll before a big reveal. In one corner: Derek Carr, the seasoned 34-year-old QB trying to reclaim his narrative amid swirling doubts. In the other: a wide-eyed rookie, fresh off the biggest moment of his life, vowing to bleed for the team before even lacing up for practice. Saints fans are no strangers to quarterback transitions—from Brees to Bridgewater, to Winston, and now Carr. But what’s happening inside Kellen Moore’s locker room? That feels different. Maybe it’s because the rookie isn’t waiting for permission. He’s declaring his intent.
The New Orleans Saints just rewrote a page of franchise history—drafting a quarterback in the first two rounds for the first time since 1971, when they selected Archie Manning second overall. This year, with the 40th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, they chose Louisville Cardinals quarterback Tyler Shough. And if you ask head coach Moore, it wasn’t just about arm strength.
On Monday, April 28, the 24-year-old posted a carousel of draft-day photos on Instagram—his wife Jordan Shough, his family, friends, and even his dog Murphy rocking a Saints bandana. But it was the caption that had fans buzzing: “God’s timing. If it was easy, everyone would do it. New Orleans you will get everything out of me. I will die on that field for y’all. WHO DAT”
“He’s been through a lot of football, he’s been exposed to a lot of different settings,” Moore said. “He’s going to continue to rise and grow.” Just days after the pick, Shough’s confidence seems to be doing exactly that. The message wasn’t just inspirational—it carried a subtle edge. A line in the sand. A shot across the veteran bow. A challenge to Derek Carr.
While the developments go on in the QB room, the veteran QB is trying to prove his truth. He quashed some rumors during the recent weekend.
Tyler Shough vs. Derek Carr: QB tension brewing?
Derek Carr, who turns 35 this year, has been dealing with skepticism from fans and insiders alike. The rumor mill has buzzed with speculation that he may be quietly seeking an exit, citing a questionable shoulder injury just days before offseason workouts.
The Saints‘ front office hasn’t quelled the rumors entirely. General Manager Mickey Loomis said just last week that the team “needed clarity” on Carr’s health. But on April 27, Carr took matters into his own hands, delivering a rebuttal—not at a press conference, but during a guest sermon at Church LV in Las Vegas. “I have an MRI report to prove it,” Carr said. “The team knows about it, we’ve been in constant communication. There’s nothing wrong—we’re figuring it out and going forward with that.”
He wasn’t alone in trying to calm the waters. Loomis reaffirmed the franchise’s commitment to Carr that same weekend: “Derek’s the starter,” he said. At least for now.
Derek Carr
The rookie might not have Carr’s résumé, but he does have something else Kellen Moore likes—the frame. Moore has worked with Dak Prescott (6’2″, 238 lbs), Jalen Hurts (6’2″, 223 lbs), and Justin Herbert (6’6″, 236 lbs). Standing at 6-foot-5, 219 pounds, Tyler Shough fits the mold of quarterbacks Moore has developed before. Shough also brings a ton of starting experience, having played for both Oregon and Texas Tech, navigating multiple offensive systems and pressure-packed environments. While other notable QBs were still on the board during round two, Moore’s decision to back Shough suggests he’s building something long-term—not just plugging a roster gap.
The 34-year-old is dealing with people who lied about him. The rookie is so excited that even his dog Murphy rocked a Saints bandana during the draft. With Carr managing a shoulder injury (and narrative control), and Shough putting the league on notice with his passion and presence, the Saints’ quarterback room is suddenly the most interesting in the NFC South.
Carr’s been told he’s the starter, but he now has a younger, hungrier quarterback breathing down his neck—one who’s already said he’s willing to “die on the field” for the team. Meanwhile, the city is watching closely. And as for the Saints? They’re not just developing talent—they’re preparing for transition.
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