It may have ended in a tie, but the New Orleans Saints’ Sunday matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars felt like a win. With a late-game explosion in offensive efficiency and defensive takeaways, there were a lot of players that did themselves favors with their performances.
QB Spencer Rattler
No player did himself more favors than Rattler. He led a game-tying drive that could have put the team in position to win it after another takeaway late in the bout.
As the quarterback battle with rookie Tyler Shough felt like it was narrowing, it was important for Rattler to establish more distance again to get the conversation back to being in his favor. He did exactly that.
Rattler completed 18 of his 24 passing attempts for 199 passing yards, one passing touchdown, an interception and a 95.7 passer rating.
Spencer Rattler on the day:
▪️ 18/24
▪️ 199 YDS
▪️ 1 TD (rushed for game-tying 2-point conversion)
▪️ 1 INT pic.twitter.com/bQJLE06e87— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) August 17, 2025
S Jonas Sanker
The Saints’ rookie safety was quickly eclipsed on the depth chart following the signing of veteran Julian Blackmon, who has looked excellent throughout camp. Sanker has been very impressive as well. His tackling ability, downhill power and nose for the football have all been evident throughout camp.
He played every single defensive snap against the Jaguars. In the process, he was second in the team in tackles (five), all of which were solo tackles. He added a pass breakup and a late interception.
The rook Jonas Sanker gets the INT with no time left 🫡#Saints | @JonasSanker pic.twitter.com/suydvt58jJ
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) August 17, 2025
The interception could have put the Saints in position to kick a field goal for the win at the end of the game. He didn’t miss a single tackle, which stood out in a game where missed tackles were evident early.
TE Treyton Welch
With at least one tight end role open, there is a lot of opportunity at the position. While tight end Michael Jacobson was expected to be the big-play factory of the group going into this game, it was Welch’s 28-yard over route that stood out among the position.
SHOUGH! WELCH! what a throw, what a catch.
📺 @FOX8NOLA pic.twitter.com/YGuGEhWkSh
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) August 17, 2025
