The New Orleans Saints officially embarked on a new chapter in their franchise history as they transitioned into the post-Derek Carr era on Saturday. The competition for the coveted starting quarterback position is now wide open, with rookie Tyler Shough and returning players Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler vying for the role. Coach Kellen Moore spoke with reporters following the announcement and emphasized that all three candidates will have the opportunity to compete for the starting job.
During the press conference, Coach Moore stated, “We’re going to let all three of these guys roll,” indicating that Shough, Haener, and Rattler have all earned their shot at the starting position. Moore expressed his belief that once the preseason begins, “one of these guys will rise” to take the lead. The coach highlighted the importance of how each quarterback operates the offense and communicates with teammates, underscoring the leadership responsibilities that come with the position.
“The quarterback has no choice; it’s a leadership role,” Moore explained. “There’s no real way around that.” He emphasized the need for quarterbacks to take ownership of their role, especially as training camp approaches and the team begins wearing pads. The true test of their capabilities will come during preseason games when the athletes can showcase their skills in a competitive environment.
As the competition heats up, Tyler Shough had the opportunity to demonstrate his abilities during a rookie minicamp. Coach Moore noted that Shough performed “excellent” during his initial experience in the NFL, which included a couple of competitive seven-on-seven sessions. Starting Monday, Shough and his fellow rookies will join the veteran players in the ongoing offseason program, where they will further hone their skills.
Looking ahead, Coach Moore acknowledged the possibility of bringing in a veteran quarterback if the right opportunity arises. He stated that the coaching staff will maintain an “awareness” of the situation. The Saints remain committed to ensuring they have the best options available as they navigate this transition period.
Jake Haener, a fourth-round pick in the 2023 draft, has already seen action in eight games with one start, completing 18 of 39 passes for 226 yards, along with one touchdown and one interception. Meanwhile, Spencer Rattler, selected in the fifth round of the 2024 draft, played in seven games with six starts, finishing his rookie season with 130 completions on 228 attempts, resulting in 1,317 passing yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions.
Tyler Shough, the 40th overall pick in the 2025 draft, arrives with high expectations. Coach Moore draws on his previous experience with rookie quarterbacks, recalling how Dak Prescott, a fourth-round pick, seized the opportunity to step in as a starter due to an injury to Tony Romo nine years ago. Prescott’s success serves as a testament to the potential that rookie quarterbacks can have in making an immediate impact.
As the Saints prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on the quarterback competition. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see which player emerges as the leader of the team and how they will shape the franchise's future.
