New Orleans, Louisiana – With the retirement of Derek Carr, the Saints find themselves in a precarious position at the quarterback position. Currently, their roster features three signal callers who collectively carry an unflattering record of 0-7 in NFL starts.
The Saints’ remaining quarterbacks include Spencer Rattler, a fifth-round pick from 2024, and Jake Haener, a fourth-round selection from 2023. Rattler took the helm for six games last season while Carr was sidelined due to injuries, while Haener made one start. Both struggled significantly during their time on the field, averaging a mere 5.8 yards per pass attempt.
Adding to the mix is rookie Tyler Shough, a second-round selection who brings a wealth of collegiate experience. At 25 years old, Shough’s journey through college football has taken him from Oregon to Texas Tech and finally to Louisville. The Saints were aware of Carr’s serious throwing shoulder injury when they selected Shough, hinting that they have future plans for him as the franchise’s next starter.
Though Taysom Hill is officially listed as a tight end, he remains the most seasoned quarterback on the roster. Hill boasts a career starting record of 7-2, featuring 193 completions on 302 attempts for a total of 2,369 yards. He has also thrown 11 touchdowns against nine interceptions, showcasing a performance level that surpasses the combined achievements of the other quarterbacks on the roster.
As the Saints approach training camp, the possibility of bringing in an additional quarterback remains uncertain. However, the current lineup suggests a highly competitive atmosphere ahead, with the three quarterbacks vying for the opportunity to lead the team.
The impending competition for the starting role underscores the challenges the Saints face in a critical period of transition. The lack of seasoned experience among the quarterbacks is a concern, raising questions about how effectively the team can perform in the upcoming season.
The Saints will likely need to assess their quarterback needs seriously as they head into training camps, weighing the potential benefits of signing an established player against giving their young prospects the chance to develop. From Rattler’s and Haener’s learning experiences last season to Shough’s potential for growth, all eyes will be on how this trio navigates the pressure cooker of NFL competition.