Becoming Mr. Louisiana: Saints Rookie QB Just Gets It

New Orleans Saints rookie quarterback Tyler Shough was different this year. While there were plenty of skeptical people when it comes to the second round pick, he quieted that with his play.

Shough was the highest quarterback the Saints drafted since Archie Manning. He became the first rookie QB to win a game for the Saints since 1981. Ultimately, he went 5-4 as the starter, threw for over 2,000 yards, and tossed 10 touchdowns. He won over most Saints fans this year.

But its one thing to come in and win some football games, its another thing entirely to win over the culture of the city. Most rookies bust it back home the second the season ends. Well...Tyler Shough isn't most rookies.

Shough Plans To Stay In Louisiana

Tyler Shough has decided he's going to plant his roots in New Orleans. He is sticking around the Boot to become a "makeshift New Orleanian" this offseason.

He has a list of things he wants to do around the city and the state. One of the top things on the list? Crawfish season...

You have to love a guy who realizes that to lead this team, you have to actually live in the community. Its not just a team, the Saints are a culture.

Tyler Shough Does Mardi Gras

He isn't just eating the food. No, he is ready to be a receiver for a change. Shough is already making plans to hit the parade route for Mardi Gras, where he will be catching the throws. He even hinted at trying to hop on a float if the schedule allows it.

The only thing that might stop him is that he has a baby on the way right around Fat Tuesday. He joked he might have to jump off a float and sprint down St. Charles to the hospital, but that is just the kind of dedication we like to see.

But imagine if his child is born on Fat Tuesday...what a sign that would be for Shough and New Orleans.

The Drago's Connection

Speaking of signs, if you believe in them, you are going to love this one. Even non-Saints fans know Drew Brees is the (black and) gold standard for football players in Louisiana, and Shough knows it too. To make sure he was doing it the right way, it turns out Shough started his NOLA journey exactly the same way Brees did.

Both quarterbacks had their very first meal in the city at the legendary Drago's Seafood. Which doesn't seem like its coincidence. It feels more like Shough gets it...he knows the Saints culture already. He knew coming in that Brees is the standard, he knows the city has a life of its own, and he's going all in on it. Well done Shough.