ESPN REPORT: Saints Name Jake Haener Starter Over Tyler Shough: New Orleans picks Jake Haener as 2025 starting QB over rookie Tyler Shough Following…
As of now, ESPN has not officially reported that the New Orleans Saints have named Jake Haener the starting QB over Tyler Shough for Week 1 or the 2025 season. However, there has been extensive coverage around a three-way quarterback competition between Haener, rookie Tyler Shough, and Spencer Rattler. Here’s a refined breakdown:
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🟢 ESPN’s Last Word on QB Competition
Week 1 OTAs: Saints coach Kellen Moore rotated all three QBs with the first-team offense. Haener took snaps early but missed time due to an oblique strain .
Health update: An ESPN report confirmed Haener’s oblique was strained (no tear), sidelining him for a couple of weeks, though he was expected to return in time for training camp .
Room dynamics: ESPN and SI described a “blank slate” QB room with Haener, Shough (second-round rookie), and Rattler all still vying for the job .
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🔁 The QB Contenders
Jake Haener (26, 4th-round pick in 2023)
Completed 18 of 39 passes for 226 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT in eight games last year .
Seen favorably for his grasp of the playbook, timing, and returning from injury .
Tyler Shough (26, 2025 2nd-round pick)
Impressive physical traits—6’5″ frame, deep-ball accuracy, athleticism—but with a steeper learning curve in decision-making under pressure .
Viewed by the Saints as “Moore’s guy” and a potential franchise QB, though still considered a rookie under evaluation .
Spencer Rattler
Served as a significant competition but appears to be a step behind in the current race .
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🤔 So, what’s next?
Official naming expected in training camp: There’s been no Week 1 starter announcement yet—only that the three-way battle continues .
Stay tuned to camp progress: Final decision likely hinges on preseason reps, scrimmage performance, and command in red-zone/under-seat drills.
Rookie readiness vs. veteran familiarity: Shough has the upside and stature of a franchise QB, whereas Haener offers more familiarity with the system and a steadier runway.
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📌 Summary
✅ No ESPN confirmation yet that Haener is the starter over Shough.
⚖️ Competition remains wide open among Jake Haener, Tyler Shough, and Spencer Rattler.
🗓️ Final decision expected during training camp, ahead of Week 1.
If you’re interested, I can keep an eye out for official updates once training camp begins.