Saints' Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler to battle for backup QB job behind Derek Carr

The New Orleans Saints’ upcoming training camp will feature a competition to see who will back up quarterback Derek Carr.

The Saints drafted Jake Haener in the fourth round last season and doubled down in 2024, adding Spencer Rattler with a fifth-round pick. The two young quarterbacks will compete through the preseason to be QB2.

“That thing is going to battle out all throughout training camp,” Saints coach Dennis Allen said, per Katherine Terrell of ESPN.

Haener’s rookie season got off to a wobbly start. He missed the first six games following a PED suspension. He didn’t play in the regular season, with Jameis Winston in town to back up Carr. Winston’s departure opens the door for the Fresno State product to play a more prominent role.

Haener declared, “I plan to be as ready as possible. A bit of competition doesn’t intimidate me. This is the NFL, after all. If I aim to achieve my goals, I must be prepared to compete with numerous individuals.”

Reports from New Orleans indicate that Haener displayed improved consistency during spring workouts, largely avoiding turnovers as anticipated. In contrast, Rattler experienced fluctuating performance levels. Despite throwing some practice interceptions, the rookie’s performance did not concern Allen, who encourages his quarterbacks to experiment during practice drills.

“During this period, and even in training camp, it’s all about understanding your capabilities and limitations,” Allen stated during organized team activities, “Without taking risks, it’s impossible to truly comprehend what is possible or impossible in our league. I’ve come to realize here that opportunities tend to dissipate more quickly than in college.”

Rattler is a crucial player to observe throughout the camp, especially as the preseason intensifies. He has the skills that could potentially make him an NFL starter in the future. However, navigating through progressions at NFL speed is a unique challenge. Rattler’s development through each phase of the preseason will provide insights into the trajectory of his early career.

Carr didn’t miss a start last season but was injured several times, getting knocked out of action in a couple of contests. That dynamic gives the backup QB job in New Orleans more prominence. Veteran journeyman Nathan Peterman was also signed this offseason, but the Saints want their two young QBs to battle it out for the right to be the next man up.