Sam Darnold vs Tyler Shough: Who Should You Start?
This is a genuine coin flip on paper. Sam Darnold finished the 2025 season at 14.7 PPG over 17 games with the Seattle Seahawks, while Tyler Shough clocked in at 14.9 across 11 appearances for the New Orleans Saints. A 0.2-point gap means any given week could go either way.
With a margin this thin, season averages are not the deciding factor. Weekly variables like opponent defense, game script, and injury status carry more weight than a fraction of a PPG. The right start in Week 6 might be the wrong start in Week 14.
Both lean on arm talent and offensive scheme as traditional pocket passers. Sam Darnold threw for 4048 yards and 25 touchdowns, while Tyler Shough posted 2384 yards and 10 scores. Volume, red zone efficiency, and game script are the key week-to-week differentiators when neither carries rushing upside.
One scheduling note: Sam Darnold is off Week 10 and Tyler Shough Week 12. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in quarterback for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
