Saints' Tyler Shough ready for Mardi Gras: 'I'm a makeshift New Orleanian'

6 days ago 2

Saints' Tyler Shough ready for Mardi Gras: 'I'm a makeshift New Orleanian' originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough capped an impressive rookie season and is now looking forward to embracing life in Louisiana.

The Arizona native and second-round pick finished the year with a 5-4 record, completing 67.6% of his passes for 2,384 yards, 10 touchdowns, six interceptions and a 91.3 quarterback rating.

Shough has clearly positioned himself as the Saints’ starter moving forward, and now he’s ready to settle into his new home.

"I'm a makeshift New Orleanian," Shough told reporters Monday, one day after the Saints’ loss to the Atlanta Falcons in the season finale.

Tyler Shough ready to immerse himself in New Orleans culture

Shough said he is excited about experiencing Mardi Gras in a few weeks, though the timing coincides with the expected arrival of his first child. He remains hopeful he’ll still be able to take in some of the festivities.

Asked whether he might ride on a float during Mardi Gras, Shough said, "I think so. I think we got that in the works. I think we're gonna make it happen."

Immersing himself in Louisiana’s culture is a priority for the rookie quarterback.

"I'm excited for crawfish season," he said. "Probably gotta go on like a swamp tour or something.

“But, I'm just excited to be able to take a deep breathe. It's been a long journey being in different states." Shough played college football at three programs — Oregon, Texas Tech and Louisville — before arriving in New Orleans.

"Coming in here hitting the ground running," Shough said. "Learning a new offense, new faces. I'm just excited to master the offense but also take some time to be able to experience Mardi Gras and be out in the community with everybody."