By Ross Jackson
As OTAs approach this week, all eyes will be on the New Orleans Saints’ starting quarterback battle. One of the top contenders for the job, second-year passer Spencer Rattler, spoke with New Orleans media members on Monday during the team’s annual Hall of Fame golf tournament.
During his availability, Rattler spoke about the competition with rookie Tyler Shough and third-year quarterback Jake Haener along with how his previous starting experience can help him out in the battle.
“Super exciting,” Rattler said. “Loving the new staff. Obviously loving the team. We’ve had a great three-four weeks of our phase one and two. Just looking forward to starting out Tuesday in OTAs, get out on that field, spin the rock around with the guys and keep implementing this offense. I’m enjoying it and looking forward to the opportunity.”
Year 1 down for Spencer Rattler 🐍
📺 https://t.co/KlYFEtTVGF pic.twitter.com/m2bIQB2hza
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) January 27, 2025
Rattler also addressed the retirement of former quarterback Derek Carr, a move by which he was not surprised. Subsequently, knowing that retirement was a possibility for the veteran, Rattler wasn’t shocked by the selection of Shough in this year’s NFL Draft either. Shough will now be Rattler’s top competition for the starting role along with third-year passer Jake Haener.
Despite the competition, the spirits seem to be high as each passer is excited about what’s ahead as OTAs kick off this week.
“I think it’s a tight QB room already,” he said. “I’ve known Shough for awhile now, being from Arizona. And obviously Haener’s here. So, it’s a tight-knit room. Love the coaches, love the guys in there. We’re just working right now.”
The second-year signal caller is now the clubhouse leader in NFL starts after getting the starting nod in six games last year. With that experience, he believes that the benefit comes from being more familiar with the speed of the game, knowing what might be coming from an opposing defense and how to prepare as a starter each week. All of which could provide Rattler a slight edge over his competition.
However, the young quarterback isn’t stressing too much. It’s clear that he’s just as comfortable and poised as he was praised as being throughout the season last year. Without a doubt, Rattler seems ready for the chance to be the Saints’ starting quarterback. A journey that begins in earnest on the field this week.
“You can’t put too much pressure on yourself,” Rattler said. “It’s year two, great opportunity ahead of me. Just got to keep working. Keep my head down and show what I got.”
