As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, Tyler Shough is generating buzz as one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects, right alongside Shedeur Sanders. Conversations are heating up about both players potentially being selected in the first or second round, with teams eyeing strategic moves to secure their future signal-callers.
Despite Shough not entering the season as a projected top-five pick, recent film reviews are showcasing his potential as a long-term solution for several franchises. Teams and analysts are diving deep into his game tape, revealing what could be a diamond in the rough in a year where quarterback talent is perceived as a bit thin.
Looking at some of the teams in the mix, it seems likely that the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants will prioritize other positions with Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter as their likely targets at picks two and three. However, several teams—namely the Pittsburgh Steelers, New Orleans Saints, and now the Los Angeles Rams—are seriously considering Shough, alongside Ole Miss’s Jaxson Dart, as they search for their next franchise quarterback.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler sheds light on the Rams’ interest, noting their attraction to Shough’s attributes as a tall pocket passer with a strong arm. Given that the quarterback class this year isn’t considered the strongest, any prospect with Shough’s skill set could see a bump in draft stock.
So who exactly is Tyler Shough? Hailing from Chandler, Arizona, he was highly recruited out of high school, receiving a four-star rating from both Scout and 247Sports. His recruitment included offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and Florida State. Ultimately, he committed to Oregon, where he played from 2018 to 2020, appearing in just 15 games with seven starts. After a three-year stint at Texas Tech and finally landing with the Louisville Cardinals in his seventh college season, Shough showcased what he can do on the field.
In his 2024 season, Shough’s stats are impressive: he led his team to an 8-4 record, posted a completion rate of 62.7%, threw for 3,195 yards, and accounted for 23 touchdowns against just six interceptions. His live arm and quick decision-making skills position him as a quarterback capable of making an immediate impact in the NFL. While his long college journey and the fact that he’ll turn 26 at the season’s start may raise questions about his future, they also suggest he brings an level of maturity that many freshmen don’t possess.
As for how the quarterback selections might unfold in the draft, many analysts believe the Tennessee Titans will take Miami quarterback Cam Ward first overall. With Hunter and Carter likely to follow, the competition to grab any available quarterback could create a scramble among teams to ensure they don’t miss out on their guy.
For instance, there are whispers that the New Orleans Saints might bypass Shedeur Sanders in favor of Jaxson Dart, who they appear to be quite keen on. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns could make a bold move by trading up to reunite Travis Hunter with his college quarterback.
This leads us to Shough, who might find himself snagged by the New York Giants at the 25th pick—especially if the Houston Texans miss out on a different target and decide to trade back. In this scenario, Shough would become the Giants’ new signal-caller, while the Steelers might pivot away from the quarterback position to explore other options, perhaps even eyeing Aaron Rodgers as their Plan B.
Of course, this is all speculation fueled by reports and rumors circulating in the lead-up to the draft. However, teams’ urgency to secure their future quarterbacks often leads to surprising decisions, especially when the pool of elite prospects begins to dwindle in the later rounds. The Rams and Browns are set to address their immediate needs and add potential quarterback depth without compromising their overall strategy.
As we look ahead, the 2024 draft promises to be filled with excitement and perhaps a bit of chaos when it comes to quarterback selections. With multiple teams aiming to secure players who could shape their franchises for years to come, fans should brace themselves for a wild ride.
