The Saints' QB battle heats up in Aug. 2025 as Spencer Rattler, Jake Haener, & Tyler Shough all take 1st-team reps. Who will win the starting job? Read more.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The California sun wasn't the only thing bringing the heat to Saints training camp on Thursday. The quarterback competition, the undisputed headline of the 2025 preseason, reached a new level of intensity as Spencer Rattler, Jake Haener, and rookie Tyler Shough all rotated with the first-team offense. Head Coach Kellen Moore confirmed the race is wide open, praising the work ethic of all three signal-callers and making it clear that the starting job is truly up for grabs.
'When you're the underdog ... and your back is kind of up against the wall, that's when I play my best.' - Jake Haener
In a move that has NFL analysts buzzing, the Saints are giving equal opportunity to their three QB hopefuls. NBC Sports' Mike Florio noted, 'It's rare to see a true three-way battle this late in camp.' Each candidate is showcasing a different flavor for Kellen Moore's offense. Spencer Rattler's arm talent has been evident, flashing the zip that made him a top draft prospect. Rookie Tyler Shough has impressed coaches with his poise and mobility in 11-on-11 drills, adding a new dimension to the pocket. And then there's Jake Haener, the self-proclaimed underdog, whose grit and determination are winning over teammates and observers alike. With no clear frontrunner, this competition is destined to be decided in the preseason games.
While the quarterbacks stole the spotlight, other key storylines developed across the field. Veteran leader Demario Davis was excused for personal reasons, while Taysom Hill remains limited as he works his way back from a knee injury, his unique role in the offense still pending his full return. On special teams, the kicking competition is another tight race, with newcomer Charlie Smyth and incumbent Blake Grupe trading field goal attempts. The energy at camp remains high, with social media lighting up with clips of defensive back drills and players like Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed sharing behind-the-scenes moments, reinforcing a sense of camaraderie under the #SaintsCamp hashtag.
Whoever wins the starting job will have big shoes to fill and a talented roster to lead. As a reminder of the standard, the team's 2024 statistical leaders—Derek Carr (3,878 passing yards), Alvin Kamara (694 rushing yards), and Chris Olave (1,123 receiving yards)—set a high bar for offensive production. The new QB will be protected by an experienced offensive line and supported by a defense featuring stalwarts like Paulson Adebo and Tyrann Mathieu, who tied for the team lead with 4 interceptions last season. The foundation is in place; the only question is who will be the one to build upon it.
The quarterback question remains the biggest puzzle in the Big Easy. While all three contenders are making their case on the practice field, the real test will come under the bright lights of preseason action. Every snap, every throw, and every decision in the upcoming games will be scrutinized as the Saints search for their new offensive leader. The battle is just getting started.
