📍 New Orleans, LA — August 27, 2025
The New Orleans Saints have officially ushered in a new era under center, naming second-year quarterback Spencer Rattler as their Week 1 starter for the 2025 NFL season. Head coach Kellen Moore made the announcement Tuesday, ending a tightly contested preseason battle between Rattler, rookie Tyler Shough, and third-year signal-caller Jake Haener.
🏈 From Backup to QB1
Rattler, a 2024 fifth-round pick out of South Carolina, spent his rookie season backing up veteran Derek Carr. When Carr was sidelined with injuries, Rattler stepped in for six starts, showing flashes of promise despite an 0–6 record. His final outing in Week 18 was his most polished, completing 61.9% of his passes for 240 yards and a touchdown.
Carr’s surprise retirement in May opened the door for a new starter, and Rattler seized the opportunity with a strong training camp and preseason performance. He completed nearly 70% of his passes across three preseason games, throwing for 295 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
🔥 Coach Moore’s Confidence
Coach Moore praised Rattler’s consistency and growth, calling the decision “challenging” but ultimately confident in the young quarterback’s ability to lead the team. “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 shown up,” Moore said.
Moore also emphasized the importance of experience, noting Rattler’s resilience through a tough rookie campaign. “He’s got the ability to rebound from a challenge, an interception, a mistake—whatever it may be. That’s one of the things that makes Spence great,” Moore added.
🧠 The Rookie Waits in the Wings
Tyler Shough, the Saints’ second-round pick in 2025, will begin the season as Rattler’s backup. Though Shough impressed with 333 passing yards and a rushing touchdown in preseason play, the coaching staff opted to prioritize Rattler’s experience and development trajectory.
Shough’s agent, Erik Burkhardt, responded to the decision with a succinct message on social media: “I like the plan”—a sign that the rookie’s camp is aligned with the Saints’ long-term vision.
🕰️ A Historic Shift
Rattler’s ascension marks a rare moment in Saints history. It’s the first time since Archie Manning in 1971 that the team will start a season with a quarterback they drafted and developed. For Rattler, it’s a dream realized. “This is something I’ve dreamed of since I was a kid,” he said. “It’s here now, and I don’t want to waste it”.
The Saints kick off their season at home against the Arizona Cardinals on September 7. All eyes will be on Rattler as he takes the reins of a franchise hungry for stability and success in the post-Carr era.