We've heard a lot of hype around Tyler Shough this offseason, but ESPN's Mike Clay may have just delivered the boldest take of them all. Clay predicted which 10 quarterbacks would have the most passing yards, and the New Orleans Saints quarterback ranked higher than both Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes.
Clay predicts Shough will finish fourth in the NFL with 4,051 passing yards in his sophomore campaign. That would have been good for 5th best last year. If this is a sign to come for the young quarterback, Saints fans should be smiling from ear to ear.
.@mikeclaynfl projects Brock Purdy to lead the NFL in passing yards 🔥 pic.twitter.com/rIfTS3fVjK
— ESPN Fantasy Sports (@ESPNFantasy) May 6, 2026
Tyler Shough being one of the leaders in yards could
Shough being one of the most prolific passers in the league could mean the Saints have taken a true step forward or the lack of investment in the defensive side of the ball this offseason has come back to bite them. Honestly, either scenario is completely possible.
The Saints notably stacked up on young offensive players in the draft and veteran additions in free agency. Everything this offseason has been catered making sure the offense is better suited to produce than they were a year ago.
There weren't many moves to ensure the defense would improve. Shough passing for over 4,000 yards could be out of pure necessity. The Saints playing from behind would force Shough into many must-pass situations. Though in this hypothetical, it's important to note both the defense and the offense would bear some of the blame.
The Saints constantly playing from behind would be the product of allowing too many points and not scoring enough early. Though a possibility, it's not what Clay was likely getting at. Clay's prediction is more likely rooted in belief the offseason additions plus an offseason to develop will result in an offensive explosion for the Saints.
If Clay is correct and the defense remains solid, the jump Saints fans have begun to feel hopeful for will be on the way. Patience is still mandatory, but predictions like this are the reason the season has a different aura around it than other recent seasons.
Saying Shough will have the fourth most yards in the league is bold and daring. Even if it feels a bit on the high end, the message is clear. Tyler Shough is poised for a special year.
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