On August 12, 2006, Young made his preseason debut against the New Orleans Saints which featured Reggie Bush in his NFL debut, the two Heisman candidates picking up where they left off in the BCS national championship game seven months before. Young did not start, but entered the game in the second half. On September 17, Young threw for his first career touchdown against the San Diego Chargers. Young made his first career start versus the Dallas Cowboys on October 1, 2006, completing 14 of 29 passes for 155 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. He achieved his first NFL victory (against the Washington Redskins, 25–22) on October 15, 2006.