The New Orleans Saints have made headlines with their decision to draft Tyler Shough, a quarterback who will turn 26 in September, raising eyebrows about their rookie age. However, the Saints' 2025 draft class isn't as old as some may think, averaging 22.78 years, placing them sixth in the NFL rankings for rookie age.

Among their nine draftees, Shough is the outlier. The roster includes younger talents like first-round pick Kelvin Banks Jr. and running back Devin Neal, both 21 years old, alongside a mix of 22 and 23-year-olds. This strategy reflects a thoughtful balance, as many NFL players hit their peak in their late 20s.

Fans may ponder the importance of age in drafting, especially for a position like quarterback. The unique nature of Shough’s experience might serve him well, but the Saints’ success will hinge on how effectively these players contribute on the field.