Spencer Rattler beats out rookie Tyler Shough for Saints starting quarterback job

The New Orleans Saints have named Spencer Rattler as their starting quarterback. This decision comes under the leadership of first-year head coach Kellen Moore following the unexpected retirement of four-time Pro Bowler Derek Carr due to a shoulder injury requiring surgery. Rattler, a second-year player, was chosen over rookie Tyler Shough and three-year veteran Jake Haener.

Rattler was a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and had previously stepped in as a starter during his rookie season when Carr was sidelined with injuries. Despite losing all six of his starts in 2024, Rattler amassed 1,317 passing yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions with a 57% completion rate. His competition, Shough, was selected in the second round of the 2025 draft after a college career marked by injuries and transfers, but he showed promise in his final college season at Louisville. Haener, drafted in the fourth round in 2023, had a