Saints face quarterback crossroads: Who will replace Derek Carr?

NEW ORLEANS — Derek Carr’s sudden retirement due to a persistent right shoulder injury has left the New Orleans Saints with a pressing question: who will take over as the starting quarterback in 2025?

The answer will shape not only the team’s immediate prospects but also its long-term direction under new head coach Kellen Moore.

Current Contenders

The Saints’ quarterback depth chart now features three young, largely unproven players, all on rookie contracts:

• Tyler Shough: Drafted 40th overall in 2025 out of Louisville, Shough is the only quarterback on the roster selected by the current coaching regime. At 26, he brings extensive college experience and a reputation for making difficult throws from various angles. Shough is considered the early favorite to win the starting job, thanks to his draft status and upside.

• Spencer Rattler: A 2024 fifth-round pick from South Carolina, Rattler started six games as a rookie but struggled, posting an 0-6 record with four touchdowns and five interceptions. Once viewed as a potential first-round talent, Rattler’s NFL career is at a crossroads, but he could get another opportunity if Shough isn’t ready to start immediately.

• Jake Haener: Selected in the fourth round in 2023, Haener started one game in 2024, completing 18-of-39 passes for 226 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He has the least hype but some NFL experience, making him a possible dark horse in the competition.

Coaching and Organizational Perspective

Head coach Kellen Moore has indicated that all three quarterbacks will have a chance to compete during training camp. The team is not rushing to anoint a starter, preferring to let the competition play out on the field.

Shough’s draft pedigree and fit with Moore’s system make him the frontrunner.

Outlook and Implications

The Saints’ decision at quarterback will have ripple effects throughout the roster. With a strong supporting cast that includes playmakers like Chris Olave and Alvin Kamara, the team is hoping stability at quarterback can keep them in playoff contention. If Shough isn’t ready, Rattler or Haener could serve as a bridge until he is, but the franchise is clearly hoping its recent draft investment pays off quickly.

“We’re going to evaluate all three of these guys,” said head coach Kellen Moore, underscoring the open nature of the competition as training camp approaches.

The Saints’ quarterback future is uncertain, but the competition promises to be one of the most closely watched storylines of the 2025 NFL offseason.