The New Orleans Saints confirmed Spencer Rattler will start the preseason finale against the Denver Broncos. Head coach Kellen Moore explained the choice by saying, “We’ll continue to work through this. Spencer will start, but all three quarterbacks will get time on the field Saturday night.”
The move points to Rattler’s momentum in the quarterback battle. Chris Cwik of Yahoo Sports noted the start was “a sign he has the inside track on the Week 1 job,” though Moore stopped short of confirming a final decision.
Saints: Last in the League Without a Starter
The Saints remain the NFL’s lone team without a declared Week 1 starter. Their opener against the Arizona Cardinals looms on September 7, but Moore emphasized patience. “It’s really, really close,” he told reporters, describing the battle between Rattler and rookie Tyler Shough.”
That measured approach is by design. Canal Street Chronicles writer Caleb Yaccarino observed, “Waiting until after the third preseason game comes with risks, but it gives Moore the chance to see both quarterbacks under pressure in meaningful snaps.”
Rattler vs. Shough: Still Neck and Neck
Rattler built his case with a strong showing against Jacksonville, completing 18-of-24 passes for 199 yards and leading a two-point conversion to tie the game. “Rattler had his best day yet in a Saints uniform,” wrote Canal Street Chronicles, pointing out his improved poise in the pocket.
Shough, meanwhile, has shown steadiness if not flash. FanSided’s Winston Wilcox described the Saints’ QB room bluntly: “The Saints’ quarterback situation is still a disaster…even if Rattler starts, that doesn’t mean Moore trusts him long-term.”
“Ideally, you’d want Tyler Shough to start. After all, they drafted Shough in the second round. He’s the one they felt was their future.”
After two preseason appearances Rattler and Shough have nearly identical stats. Rattler is 25-0f-35 through the air for 252 yards. Meanwhile, Shough has completed 24 of his 34 attempts for 231 yards. Both quarterbacks have one touchdown pass and one interception.
Cousins Rumors Refuse to Die
As the Saints’ indecision drags on, outside speculation swirls about a trade for Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins. Sports Illustrated’s Zach Pressnell highlighted the chatter, reporting, “The Saints have been linked to a blockbuster move that would bring Cousins to New Orleans despite his $180 million contract and no-trade clause.”
Still, doubts remain. Heavy Sports cautioned, “New Orleans may be desperate enough to consider Cousins, but it’s hard to see Atlanta helping a hated division rival at quarterback.” Cousins himself has reportedly shown little desire to waive his no-trade clause until he’s sure of his landing spot.
What Comes Next
Saturday’s finale now represents the decisive test. If Rattler performs like he did against Jacksonville, he could secure the starting job. If Shough impresses, the organization may side with its long-term investment.
For now, the Saints remain deliberate. As Moore explained, “This is about finding the guy who gives us the best chance, not just for Week 1, but for the season ahead.”
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