Training camp is days away, but the New Orleans Saints are still waiting for their most important rookie to put pen to paper. Tyler Shough, the quarterback many expect to start Week 1, remains unsigned as he battles the team over guaranteed money in his rookie contract.
Why Is Tyler Shough Holding Out When Training Camp Starts Soon?
Shough, selected in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, wants a fully guaranteed contract. While second-round picks typically don’t get that kind of security, this year feels different. Only two of this year’s 32 second-round picks have signed so far: Houston receiver Jayden Higgins and Cleveland linebacker Carson Schwesinger. Both got completely guaranteed deals, and their agreements have sparked discussions across the league. Shough isn’t alone in pushing for the same treatment.
The Saints view Shough as their franchise quarterback. With Derek Carr no longer on the roster, the rookie from Texas Tech is expected to take over as the starter. But that future gets complicated if he doesn’t show up to camp on time.
Longtime Saints insider Timothy J. Jones weighed in on the situation and didn’t hold back when discussing what this means for Shough.
If Tyler Shough doesn’t report to #Saints training camp due to ongoing contract negotiations. This decision may not be beneficial for him from a competitive standpoint, as he will miss valuable practice reps. Additionally, it could strengthen Spencer Rattler’s case for being the…
— Timothy J Jones (@tjayjones8) July 14, 2025
“If Tyler Shough doesn’t report to Saints training camp due to ongoing contract negotiations, this decision may not be beneficial for him from a competitive standpoint, as he will miss valuable practice reps,” Jones said. “Additionally, it could strengthen Spencer Rattler’s case for being the starting quarterback. However, I understand his desire to secure the best financial deal possible.”
What Does This Mean for Spencer Rattler’s Starting Chances?
This puts Shough in a tough spot. He’s fighting for a fully guaranteed contract that he and many others believe second-round picks deserve. But every day he stays away from camp is a missed opportunity to build chemistry with his teammates, learn the system, and show coaches he’s ready to lead.
Meanwhile, Spencer Rattler, whom the Saints drafted just last year, keeps working. If Shough holds out through training camp, Rattler will get more first-team reps and strengthen his case for the starting job.
For Shough, this isn’t just about money. It’s about setting the tone for his NFL career. He has every right to fight for a fair deal, but he’s also risking a golden opportunity. Camp opens on July 22.
