Saints' QB Battle Intensifies as Shough and Rattler Compete for Starter Role

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the New Orleans Saints find themselves in the midst of a quarterback competition. The team drafted Tyler Shough with the 40th overall pick in this year's draft, but he is now facing a challenge from Spencer Rattler for the starting job.

Shough, who turns 26 next month, has had a rather unconventional college career. He was a highly-touted recruit out of high school, but didn't start during his first two seasons at Oregon. Shough then transferred to Texas Tech, where he had limited action as a junior before playing a seventh college season at Louisville in 2024, where he finally had a breakout year.

Meanwhile, Rattler was once considered the next great quarterback prospect, but his career has also been marked by ups and downs. The former Oklahoma star struggled as the Saints' starter in 2024, going 0-6 with 4 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. Now, he's looking to redeem himself and earn the starting job in New Orleans.

With the Chargers cancelling their joint practices this week, the Saints have stepped in to face the Rams. These sessions will be crucial for Shough and Rattler as they try to impress new head coach Kellen Moore and secure the starting role. However, the Rams' defense will also have a say in the matter, as their performance against the two quarterbacks could sway Moore's decision.

As the Saints head into the 2025 season, their quarterback situation remains uncertain. But the joint practices with the Rams this week could go a long way in determining who will be under center for New Orleans in Week 1.