Spencer Rattler wins Saints starting QB gig over Tyler Shough

The Saints have chosen their starting quarterback. 

Spencer Rattler was named the QB1 in New Orleans on Tuesday after a long preseason battle with rookie Tyler Shough, who will serve as Rattler’s backup to open the season.

“Really, really excited for [Rattler]. He’s done an awesome job this offseason,” Saints head coach Kellen Moore said after naming him the starter, per NFL.com. “He’s just been consistent. He’s made some really good decisions throughout this whole entire process and his ability to make plays with his arm and his feet have certainly showed up. 

“I’m really, really excited about Spencer, he’s earned this opportunity, he’s going to do a tremendous job for us. At the same time, we’re really, really fortunate we got Tyler. Love the development that he’s had.”

Earlier this summer, quarterback Jake Haener was considered a possible starter before falling behind Rattler and Shough in the race. 

He was waived on Tuesday. 

Rattler, a fifth-round pick in 2024, has looked solid during the Saints’ three preseason games, throwing for 295 yards on 30-of-43 passing with one touchdown and an interception. 

Shough, who was the 40th overall pick in April’s draft, posted similar numbers during his three outings, going 36 of 54 for 333 yards, one touchdown and an interception as well. 

Despite the close battle, it appears the job is Rattler’s for the time being. 

“That’s the important thing, guys. We’re not getting into this QB debate throughout the season,” Moore said. “Spencer’s our starting quarterback. Tyler’s gonna keep developing.”

Rattler replaces Derek Carr, who shockingly retired from the NFL in May rather than undergoing shoulder surgery. 

Carr was the starting quarterback for the Saints in each of the past two seasons.