In a highly anticipated decision, the New Orleans Saints have officially named Spencer Rattler as their starting quarterback for the upcoming NFL season.

This announcement comes after a rigorous competition that saw Rattler face off against rookie Tyler Shough, a second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

New head coach Kellen Moore made the announcement on August 26, 2025, expressing his confidence in Rattler’s abilities and the progress he has made during the offseason.

“Really, really excited for Rattler,” Moore stated.

“He’s done an awesome job this offseason.

He’s just been consistent.

He’s made some really good decisions throughout this whole, entire process.

His ability to make plays with his arm and his feet has certainly showed up.”

The decision to start Rattler is particularly notable given the circumstances surrounding the Saints’ quarterback situation.

After the sudden retirement of starter Derek Carr due to injury-related issues, the Saints found themselves in a position where they needed to evaluate their options carefully.

In addition to Rattler and Shough, veteran quarterback Jake Haener was also in the mix, but he ultimately did not make the final cut.

Haener had started one game last season but struggled with injuries during training camp.

He was waived at the 53-man roster deadline on Tuesday, leaving Rattler and Shough as the two remaining candidates for the starting role.

Rattler, who turns 25 on September 28, was selected in the fifth round of the 2024 draft.

He had a challenging rookie season, playing in seven games and starting six, all of which resulted in losses.

During that time, he completed 130 of 228 passes for 1,137 yards, with four touchdowns and five interceptions.

However, Rattler has shown significant improvement during the preseason.

He started the first and third preseason games, completing 30 of 43 passes for 295 yards, along with one touchdown and one interception.

Additionally, he demonstrated his mobility by rushing seven times for 41 yards.

“Obviously excited to be the guy going into Week 1,” Rattler told reporters following the announcement.

“I want to lead this team, want to lead these guys.

Just keep fighting, that’s one thing I can promise is putting my all on that field, and I know everybody else will.

Good to gain that confidence from your coach to make that decision.”

Rattler’s journey to becoming the starting quarterback has not been without challenges.

His rookie season was marred by struggles, but his work ethic and determination have paid off.

Coach Moore acknowledged the importance of the decision, emphasizing the need for consistency and leadership at the quarterback position.

“Spencer has shown that he can handle the pressure and expectations that come with being a starting quarterback in the NFL,” Moore added.

“His growth during the offseason has been impressive, and we believe he is ready to take the reins.”

On the other hand, Tyler Shough, who turns 26 on the same day as Rattler, has also made a strong case for himself.

After transferring to Louisville in 2024, Shough led the Cardinals to a 9-4 record, throwing for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns, and six interceptions.

His previous experience at Oregon and Texas Tech, where he appeared in a total of 42 college games, has equipped him with valuable skills and knowledge.

Shough’s preseason performance was commendable, as he completed 36 of 54 passes for 333 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.

He also showcased his athleticism by rushing three times for 23 yards and a touchdown.

Despite his strong showing, the Saints ultimately decided to go with Rattler as the starter.

Coach Moore expressed his belief in Shough’s potential, stating, “We’re really, really fortunate we got Tyler.

I love the development that he’s had over the course of this entire offseason.

He’s done a number of things for the first time in his career, just navigating that.

I think that’s an important aspect when you’re a younger quarterback to let the entire process play itself out.”

The decision to start Rattler over Shough reflects the Saints’ commitment to developing their quarterbacks while also focusing on immediate success.

With the regular season approaching, the team is optimistic about Rattler’s ability to lead the offense and make an impact on the field.

As the Saints prepare to open their season against the Arizona Cardinals on September 7, all eyes will be on Rattler as he steps into the role of starting quarterback.

The pressure will be immense, but Rattler has shown that he is ready to embrace the challenge.

His teammates have rallied around him, and the coaching staff is confident in his abilities.