The New York Giants are signing backup quarterback Jake Haener to their 53-man roster, per a report from Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network. This fills the roster spot opened by the loss of wide receiver/kick returner Braxton Berrios.
The Giants singed Haener on Aug. 17 following some disastrous preseason performances by Brandon Allen. Haener, 27, is a former fourth-round pick by the New Orleans Saints in the 2023 NFL Draft. He spent time as the Saints’ starting quarterback in 2024 after Derek Carr’s
Week 14 injury, but was waived and signed to the Saints’ practice squad in 2025.
Haener played well enough for the Giants in the final preseason game and was ultimately signed to the practice squad instead of Allen.
Haener now likely becomes the Giants’ primary backup while J.J. McCarthy gets up to speed. This does raise the question as to whether or not the Giants will employ their “McCarthy package” against the Washington Commanders.
This also opens up a spot on the Giants’ practice squad. The Giants did have a visit on Tuesday from wide receiver Dontae Fleming, who spent last season on the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad.
