ESPN Analyst Calls Louisville’s Tyler Shough the Surprise Steal of the NFL Draft
As the NFL Draft approaches, quarterback prospects like Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Jayden Daniels have dominated the headlines. However, ESPN NFL and college football analyst recently highlighted an under-the-radar name that could shake up draft boards—Louisville’s Tyler Shough.
“This kid is going to be the surprise and steal of the draft, in particular at the QB position,” the analyst said. “He can throw it, he’s mobile, he’s big, he’s mature. He’s a guy who has a lot of mental horsepower, and he’s a guy who’s been coached by Jeff and Brian Brohm. With that background, he’s more prepared for the NFL than people realize.”
It’s not often that a quarterback with Shough’s experience, talent, and physical attributes flies under the radar, but his unconventional college journey has led many to overlook his potential. Now, with the right opportunity, he could be one of the biggest surprises in this year’s draft.
A Unique College Journey
Tyler Shough (pronounced “Shuck”) has taken a winding path to this point in his career. He started at Oregon, where he was expected to take the reins after Justin Herbert’s departure to the NFL. In 2020, he led the Ducks to a Pac-12 Championship and a Fiesta Bowl appearance, showing flashes of brilliance as a passer and a dual-threat weapon.
Despite the team’s success, Shough transferred to Texas Tech, seeking an offense that would better prepare him for the NFL. Injuries, however, derailed much of his time with the Red Raiders. He displayed undeniable talent when healthy, but he struggled to stay on the field consistently.
Looking for one final opportunity to prove himself, Shough transferred again, this time to Louisville, where he played under head coach Jeff Brohm and offensive coordinator Brian Brohm—two former quarterbacks with deep NFL experience. In the Brohm system, Shough was given the opportunity to refine his mechanics, improve his decision-making, and prepare for the professional level.
Why Scouts Are Intrigued by Shough
While Shough’s college career was marked by ups and downs, NFL scouts are taking notice of what he brings to the table. At 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, he has the prototypical size teams look for in a quarterback. But his game isn’t just about size—he’s also an athletic player who can make plays with his legs and extend drives outside the pocket.
One of the key reasons ESPN’s analyst believes Shough is a draft steal is his mental toughness and maturity. Having played in multiple offensive systems and dealt with adversity, he has developed a high football IQ and the resilience needed to succeed at the next level.
“He’s been through a lot, and that’s not a bad thing,” the analyst explained. “He’s had to fight for opportunities, he’s had to adapt to different systems, and he’s played against top-level competition. That kind of experience is invaluable.”
Another major factor in Shough’s appeal is his arm talent. He can make every throw on the field, whether it’s deep passes, tight-window throws, or quick timing routes. Playing under the Brohm brothers at Louisville allowed him to further refine his accuracy and decision-making, making him a more polished passer than he was earlier in his career.
How He Compares to Other QBs in the Draft
With so much focus on top-tier quarterbacks like Williams, Maye, and Daniels, it’s easy to see why Shough isn’t in the mainstream conversation. However, when evaluating quarterbacks outside the first round, he stands out as a high-upside option.
In many ways, Shough’s situation is similar to that of past draft-day surprises. Brock Purdy, who was the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, became an immediate success for the 49ers despite being overlooked. Shough could follow a similar path if he lands in the right system where he can develop without immediate pressure to start.
Some scouts have compared him to quarterbacks like Ryan Tannehill or even a young Ben Roethlisberger—big, athletic passers with the ability to extend plays when needed. While he’s not currently projected as a first-round pick, his stock could rise significantly if he impresses at the NFL Combine or during team workouts.
Potential Fits in the NFL
Finding the right situation is critical for any young quarterback, and Shough could thrive in a system that values development. Several teams could see him as a mid-round selection with the potential to grow into a starting role.
- Pittsburgh Steelers – The Steelers have been searching for quarterback consistency, and Shough’s physical tools and toughness could make him a strong fit behind a veteran like Russell Wilson or Kenny Pickett.
- New Orleans Saints – Derek Carr is the current starter, but the Saints need a long-term plan. Shough’s ability to make plays in an aggressive passing system could make him a great developmental option.
- Las Vegas Raiders – With uncertainty at the quarterback position, the Raiders could use a player like Shough, who has the size and arm strength to thrive in the AFC West.
- Minnesota Vikings – If the Vikings don’t land a top-tier QB early, Shough could be an intriguing mid-round project behind Kirk Cousins or another veteran.
- San Francisco 49ers – While they have Brock Purdy, Kyle Shanahan has a history of developing quarterbacks, and Shough’s mobility and quick release could make him an excellent fit in the system.
Final Thoughts
Tyler Shough may not be a household name in this year’s draft, but that could change quickly. With his size, arm talent, mobility, and experience under elite coaching, he has the tools to be one of the biggest surprises in the class.
ESPN’s analyst might be onto something when he calls Shough “the steal of the draft.” His journey hasn’t been traditional, but that doesn’t mean his future isn’t bright. If he lands in the right situation and continues to develop, he could prove a lot of people wrong—and make an NFL team very happy in the process.
As the draft process unfolds, expect more eyes to turn toward Shough. And if he gets the opportunity, don’t be surprised if he makes an impact far sooner than expected.