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Saints QB Competition: Spencer Rattler Beating Out Tyler Shough, Jake Haener For QB1

Gia Nguyen Written by Sports EditorGia Nguyen
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Saints QB Competition: Spencer Rattler Beating Out Tyler Shough, Jake Haener For QB1

The New Orleans Saints opened training camp with true three-way competition under center following Derek Carr’s surprising retirement in May. All eyes have been on second-round pick Tyler Shough, who many expected to seize control of the starting job after being drafted under the new regime. Less than 10 days into training camp, however, it’s become apparent that this quarterback competition is far from decided and early signs suggest Shough is playing catch-up rather than pulling ahead. Second-year quarterback Spencer Rattler is leading the pack and appears to be beating out Shough and former fourth-round pick Jake Haener for the starting job. Below, we’ll break down where each quarterback stands in their bid to win the nod under center.

Tyler Shough Struggling To Separate Himself As QB1

Early reports have painted an ugly picture of Shough’s time under center during training camp. 

He’s been timid and reluctant to take chances, often fading away from pressure or checking down to receivers, even in 7-on-7 drills. 

Shough is 25 years old and will turn 26 before the first month of the season is over, so expectations were high for the rookie QB to be NFL-ready on Day 1. 

But that’s not been the case in the early part of camp with several analysts and beat reporters quick to point out his flaws and write him off as a potential bust.

That said, it hasn’t all been bad for Shough. While he struggled to lead a two-minute drill a few days ago, he’s also had some bright spots under center. Over the past few days in camp, he’s started to take some chances and fit balls into tighter windows, a sign that he’s gaining some confidence in new head coach Kellen Moore’s offense. 

While that led to two interceptions on Thursday, it’s also a positive sign that things are starting to slow down for the rookie. Shough also showed some guts by responding with a crisp 20-yard touchdown throw to Mason Tipton after his first two picks of camp.

There’s still a lot of camp left and three preseason games to take back his spot on the depth chart, and as with any rookie, patience is going to be a virtue for Saints fans this season.

Spencer Rattler Has Taken Control Of Saints’ QB Competition

By all accounts, Rattler is leading the Saints’ QB competition so far. He has shown noticeable growth under center, flashing sharper reads, improved accuracy, and the ability to push the ball downfield. 

Rattler was one of the least accurate quarterbacks when targeting open receivers 10+ yards downfield as a rookie. However, he has made several impressive deep throws during camp and developed strong chemistry across his receiving corps, a sign that his overall command of the offense is starting to catch up with his arm talent.

As a rookie, Rattler dealt with injuries to his receivers, a midseason coaching change, and a lackluster supporting cast. He was also a victim of drops with only Indianapolis Colts QB Anthony Richardson posting a higher drop percentage.

With a year of NFL growing pains behind him, Rattler looks like a quarterback ready to take the next step. His poise, precision, and deep-ball accuracy have turned heads daily in camp, and the gap between him and the rest of the QB room seems to be widening. 

If he can put together a strong showing during the preseason, it’s hard to imagine anyone but Rattler taking the first snap for New Orleans in Week 1.

Jake Haener Still Looking For A Shot To Prove He Belongs In The NFL

The forgotten man in the Saints’ quarterback room, Jake Haener has quietly put together some strong moments in camp. He’s even gotten first-team reps over the past few days, proof that this has truly been a three-way battle for the starting job.

The 26-year-old has made the most of his opportunities with the first-team offense, producing several “wow” moments, including a deep shot to Chris Olave down the middle of the field. 

On Thursday, he finished 9-of-13 passing with a touchdown and no interceptions. 

While he might still end up as QB3 on the Saints’ depth chart, Haener looks like a valuable asset to have in a QB room that lacks NFL experience.

Gia Nguyen Written by Sports EditorGia Nguyen
Based in Canada, Gia is a Sports Casting contributor. She graduated from the University of Windsor with a Bachelor of Science, so she knows the make-up of a winning bet. Gia uses her analytical background to tell stories using the latest data and statistics. Her work has been sourced by Entrepreneur, Inquirer, and more. Gia is also interested in health, wellness, and yoga.
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