The Saints’ quarterback situation is reportedly less straightforward than previously believed.
Following the sudden retirement of Derek Carr, many assumed that Tyler Shough was the presumptive starter given that he was selected in the second round of this year’s NFL Draft.
And while the former Louisville passer may in fact win the starting job, ESPN’s Dan Graziano believes there will be a ‘true competition’ in training camp between Shough and Spencer Rattler.
‘…There are people in the Saints’ building who like Spencer Rattler and want to give him a chance to compete with Shough for the starting job,’ Graziano wrote. ‘And so far this offseason, Rattler has shown improvement over his poor 2024 rookie performance.
‘As of now, expect the Saints to set up training camp as a true competition between Shough and Rattler. Could Shough have the edge as the player the new coaching staff drafted with the 40th pick? Absolutely. But it doesn’t sound like anything is already a done deal.’
Shough, 25, spent a whopping seven years in the college ranks, playing for the likes of Oregon and Texas Tech before finishing out his collegiate career with Louisville last year.
Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler will have a ‘true competition’ for the starting QB job, it has been reported
Derek Carr announced his retirement from the NFL in sudden fashion back in May
And the passer had by far his best season there, notching a career-high 3,195 passing yards and 23 touchdowns.
Rattler, whom the Saints selected in the fifth round of the 2024 Draft, is actually a year younger than Shough.
Due to injuries to Carr, Rattler got the chance to make six starts last season, in which he averaged 197 yards per game and totaled three passing touchdowns to five interceptions.
New Orleans lost all six of his starts.
Carr, who also suffered an oblique injury in October, saw his season prematurely end on December 8 due to a concussion and a left-hand injury.
He began throwing again in March after his 2024 season ended, but soon began experiencing discomfort in his throwing shoulder.
Subsequent medical scans revealed ‘significant degenerative changes to his rotator cuff,’ according to the Saints.
And although surgery was an option, it would have put his entire 2025 season in jeopardy – and still wouldn’t ensure a return to full strength.
Rattler (left) and Shough are seen throwing during a mandatory minicamp this week
The QB decision will ultimately lie with new Saints head coach Kellen Moore, seen on June 10
Ultimately, the 34-year-old decided in May to call it quits.
‘Upon reflection of prayer, and in discussion with Heather, I’ve decided to retire from the National Football League,’ Carr said in his statement.
‘For more than 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and we are forever grateful and humbled by this experience.
‘It’s difficult to find the right words to express our thanks to all the teammates, coaches, management, ownership, team officials and especially the fans who made this journey so special. Your unwavering support has meant the world to us.’
The Saints will open up their 2025 season on September 7 against the Cardinals.
