In 2025, the New Orleans Saints faced an unusual decision going into the season: who would be the starting quarterback in Week 1?
Between Drew Brees, Jameis Winston and Derek Carr, it’s a question the franchise has rarely had to deal with in recent decades. Alas, despite much speculation that the battle was merely a formality before Tyler Shough was handed the keys by preseason, it was second-year pro Spencer Rattler who got the nod from Kellen Moore.
A year on, a different question persists in the
QB room: who’s the backup?
Having taken over the reins halfway through last season, Shough is now the established starter heading into 2026. But whether Rattler is in at QB2, we’re yet to have a definitive answer for.
Rattler’s rookie deal sees him under contract for two more seasons. Meanwhile, former 2021 second overall pick Zach Wilson is also in the building, having signed a one-year contract with the Saints for the season ahead.
Wilson struggled to establish himself through three seasons with the Jets before stints over the last two years with Denver and Miami. A highly touted prospect coming out of BYU, he’s yet to live up to what many hoped he could be at the professional level.
Rattler, meanwhile, had his moments as the starter a year ago, and threw just one interception in his first six starts. But he ultimately lost his spot after the Saints fell to 1-7 on the year.
Which QB starts the year behind Shough will be a story to follow as the Saints move through the offseason.
Who do you want to see as the backup in Week 1? Let us know in the comments!
