Saints announce Spencer Rattler as starting QB against Cardinals: "We're excited for Spence"

The New Orleans Saints have named Spencer Rattler their starting quarterback for the 2025 season opener against the Arizona Cardinals.

Why it matters: This decision marks a significant shift in the Saints' offensive strategy following the retirement of Derek Carr due to a shoulder injury.

• With Rattler at the helm, the Saints aim to revitalize their passing game and build on his experience from last season, despite his struggles.
• The team's choice reflects both confidence in Rattler's potential and a commitment to developing talent, particularly after a competitive preseason.

What’s new: Rattler’s promotion to starter comes as the Saints were the last team in the league to announce their starting quarterback for the upcoming season.

• He enters the role after an underwhelming performance in 2024, where he started six games and finished winless.
• Rookie Tyler Shough had been vying for the position but will now continue to develop as a backup.

By the numbers: Rattler was a fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and has now been thrust into a leadership role with the Saints.

• In addition to his previous starts, he logged three series with the first-team offense in the preseason finale against the Denver Broncos, indicating the coaching staff's intention to integrate him fully into the team's plans.
• His prior performance statistics are crucial; he recorded zero wins in his six starts last year, which places pressure on him to improve as a starter.

Yes, but: While Rattler’s selection may bring excitement, his past performance raises questions about his readiness to lead.

• Kellen Moore, the Saints' offensive coordinator, expressed optimism, stating, "We're excited for Spence and Tyler is in a great position to continue to develop," suggesting the team believes in Rattler's upside.
• However, the transition from a struggling starter to a successful one is often fraught with challenges, particularly in high-pressure situations.

What to watch: As the Saints prepare for their matchup against the Cardinals, all eyes will be on how Rattler adapts to this new challenge.

• His ability to manage the game, make quick decisions, and perform under pressure will be critical for the Saints' success moving forward.
• Fans and analysts alike will scrutinize his performance closely, especially given the team's playoff aspirations.

The bottom line: Starting Spencer Rattler is a risk for the Saints, but it also represents an opportunity for growth within the franchise.

• With a supportive coaching staff and a desire to turn around last season's struggles, Rattler's success or failure could significantly impact the Saints’ future trajectory in the NFC South.