New Orleans Saints finally settle Spencer Rattler-Tyler Shough quarterback battle weeks before NFL opener

It's not Shough-time yet in New Orleans, as Spencer Rattler has been named the Saints' starting quarterback over second-round pick Tyler Shough. 

Coach Kellen Moore made the announcement Tuesday, putting an end to one of the last remaining quarterback battles in the NFL. 

Rattler appeared in seven games last season, completing 130 of 228 attempts for 1,317 yards four touchdowns and five picks in mop-up duty for a 5-12 team. 

Moore has praised of both quarterbacks this preseason and previously confessed that this decision has been a difficult one for him.

With Rattler, Moore acknowledged the former South Carolina star and former fifth-round pick 'went through some progressions really well' in Saturday's preseason finale against the Denver Broncos.

'Could have been better, obviously,' he said. 'But it was solid.'

Rattler completed 5 of 8 passes for 43 yards in the loss, leading a pair of rives that ended in field goals.

Earlier in the day, Moore cut quarterback Jake Haener, who wasn't expected to compete for the starting job. 

The team had once hoped that Derek Carr would be its starter in 2025, but he retired after injury issues.

Carr released a statement on his decision after discussing with his wife, Heather, in May. 

'Upon reflection of prayer, and in discussion with Heather, I've decided to retire from the National Football League,' said Carr. 'For more than 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and we are forever grateful and humbled by this experience. 

'It's difficult to find the right words to express our thanks to all the teammates, coaches, management, ownership, team officials and especially the fans who made this journey so special. Your unwavering support has meant the world to us.'

As explained in the Saints’ statement, Carr began throwing again in March after his 2024 season ended December 8 due to a concussion and a left-hand injury.

The 34-year-old soon began experiencing discomfort in his throwing shoulder and subsequent medical scans revealed ‘significant degenerative changes to his rotator cuff,’ according to the team.

Although surgery was an option, it would put his entire 2025 season in jeopardy and still couldn’t ensure a return to full strength.

So, after discussing with his wife, Heather, as well as team and outside medical personnel, Carr has decided to end his NFL career after 11 seasons.