The Saints Have Their Starting Quarterback

The New Orleans Saints have made their decision regarding the starting quarterback. On Tuesday, Spencer Rattler was named QB1, triumphing in a competitive battle against rookie Tyler Schaff.

“I’m really excited about Spencer,” said Saints head coach Kellen Moore after the announcement. “He’s done a fantastic job this offseason. Consistency was key for him, and he made some good choices along the way. His ability to utilize both his arms and legs was evident.”

Moore expressed confidence in Rattler, emphasizing that this opportunity is significant. “He’s going to do a great job for us, and we’re fortunate to have him,” he added. Earlier in the summer, quarterback Jake Haener had been viewed as a leading contender but ultimately fell behind Rattler and Schaff in the race.

Unfortunately for him, Haener was released on Tuesday. Rattler, the fifth overall pick in the 2024 draft, performed solidly during the Saints’ preseason games, throwing for 295 yards on 30 completions out of 43 attempts, alongside one touchdown and one interception. Schaff, selected as the 40th pick in April, had similar stats—he completed 36 of 54 passes for 333 yards, with one touchdown and an interception as well.

Even with the tight competition, it seems Rattler has secured the starting role for now. “That’s what’s important. We’re not going to get bogged down in a quarterback debate all season,” Moore noted. “Spencer is our guy moving forward, while Tyler will continue to grow in his role.”

Instead of having shoulder surgery, Rattler will step in for Derek Kerr, who surprisingly retired from the NFL in May. Kerr had been the starting quarterback for the Saints for the last two seasons.