Saints' Tyler Shough Delays Multiple Second-Round Deals Seeking Full Guarantee

Tyler Shough, the second-round pick by the New Orleans Saints in the 2025 NFL Draft, is leveraging his expected starting quarterback role following Derek Carr's retirement to demand a fully guaranteed rookie contract, a move that is delaying contract signings for many other second-round picks. Shough, who transferred twice in college and has demonstrated strong potential, is reportedly the most likely rookie quarterback to start in the 2025 season, adding weight to his contract demands. His insistence on a fully guaranteed deal follows a precedent set by the Houston Texans with another second-round pick, prompting a ripple effect among other unsigned second-rounders waiting to see the outcome of his negotiations. The Saints, having passed on top free-agent quarterbacks and drafting Shough in the second round after selecting an offensive lineman in the first, face a quarterback competition that includes Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. Experts recognize Shough's potential to lead the team, but the holdout over contract guarantees highlights the evolving dynamics of rookie contracts in the NFL, especially for quarterbacks anticipated to start immediately. This situation underscores a broader trend where second-round draft picks are increasingly demanding greater financial security in their rookie deals.