Quarterback Tyler Shough has shown promise as a young QB in New Orleans, but his rookie-season metrics and draft pedigree suggest limited upside for a guaranteed franchise ceiling. His expected points added per drop back finished at +0.01, a solid but not standout figure for long-term stardom.
Analysts have floated the Saints as a potential Burrow destination should Shough regress or the Bengals opt to rebuild, highlighting the appeal of a reunion with the LSU standout in a city hungry for a championship-caliber signal-caller.
The Saints could be built to accommodate Burrow under the guidance of head coach Kellen Moore, a former quarterback known for orchestrating top-seven offenses. The roster features a strong offensive line with recently drafted tackles Taliese Fuaga and Kelvin Banks Jr., a solid center in Erik McCoy, and a capable guard in David Edwards.
Offensively, New Orleans has playmakers to complement Burrow, led by Chris Olave, though the team still seeks more perimeter weapons after trading Rasheed Shaheed to Seattle. The Saints also added David Edwards on a four-year, $61 million deal, while previously pursuing help to bolster the ground game and overall offense.
The 2026 season will largely determine the Saints’ standing in any Burrow sweepstakes. If Shough does not progress, New Orleans could consider a multi-pick package and Shough to Cincinnati in a bid to re-enter contention, underscoring the franchise’s willingness to pursue bold, win-now moves.
