Saints Sign QB Tyler Shough to Fully Guaranteed Four-Year Deal

The New Orleans Saints have signed their 2025 second-round draft pick, quarterback Tyler Shough, to a fully guaranteed four-year contract worth $10.795 million, a unique and groundbreaking deal for a non-first round pick. This contract includes an unusual structure where Shough receives the majority of his money as a roster bonus during the first week of training camp each year, making him the lowest second-round pick to secure such a fully guaranteed deal. The Saints appear heavily invested in Shough, who is competing for the starting quarterback position against Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener, though the guaranteed money does not necessarily predict Shough's starting odds. This contract trend emerged after earlier second-round picks negotiated similar guarantees, but Shough may be the last of his class to receive a fully guaranteed deal, as picks after No. 40 have not secured such contracts. Analysts consider the Saints' season outlook cautiously optimistic, noting the challenges of a young quarterback and new offensive line, with predictions of around 4 to 7 wins. The contract ensures Shough's participation in training camp, which is crucial for the Saints to fully evaluate their quarterback competition and strategize for the season ahead.