Spencer Rattler Injury News & Updates

Saints head coach Kellen Moore informed Rattler that he will move into the No. 2 role at quarterback with Tyler Shough set to take over as the team's starting quarterback beginning with Sunday's game against the Rams, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

After a 1-7 start to the season, the Saints are opting for a change under center after Rattler beat out Shough, a rookie second-round pick out of Louisville, for the starting job coming out of the preseason. Despite a lackluster supporting cast, Rattler was reasonably efficient as a passer over his eight starts (68 percent completion rate, 6.2 yards per attempt), but he had been mistake-prone over his last two outings. In just over six and a half quarters of football in losses to the Bears and Buccaneers, Rattler took seven sacks, threw four interceptions and lost two fumbles. Unlike the undersized Rattler, Shough (6-foot-5, 219 pounds) offers an ideal frame as a pocket passer and solid arm strength to match it, but his lack of mobility and poor accuracy could render him a less interesting fantasy option.

Saints head coach Kellen Moore said Monday that the team is still evaluating the quarterback position ahead of Sunday's road matchup against the Rams in Week 9, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Spencer Rattler was benched for rookie second-rounder Tyler Shough late in the third quarter of New Orleans' 23-3 loss to the Buccaneers in Week 8, though neither signal-caller had much success moving the ball on offense. Moore will likely want to give whomever of Rattler or Shough will start Sunday against Los Angeles a full week of practice, so a decision on the team's No. 1 quarterback for Week 9 should arrive prior to Wednesday. Neither boasts much fantasy appeal, especially in single-QB formats.

Rattler completed 15 of 21 pass attempts for 136 yards, no touchdowns and one interception while gaining 12 yards and losing a fumble on three carries in Sunday's 23-3 loss to Tampa Bay.

Rattler was benched late in the third quarter of Sunday's loss following a pair of first-half turnovers and just three points scored. Rookie backup Tyler Shough didn't fare much better in relief, completing 56.7 percent of his pass attempts for 128 yards and an interception of his own. It will be interesting to see if Sunday's change was permanent, or just a failed attempt to shake things up in Week 8. Neither signal-caller projects as high-upside fantasy options against the Rams next Sunday.

Coach Kellen Moore said Monday that Rattler remains the Saints' starting quarterback despite turning the ball over four times in Sunday's loss to the Bears, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

When asked if the team needs to get a look at rookie Tyler Shough at some point this season, Moore said that will be a "week-to-week thing," according to Underhill. Rattler tossed three interceptions and lost one fumble against Chicago, but prior to Week 7 he'd only thrown one pick and lost zero fumbles. If Rattler can get back to taking care of the football, he should have a longer leash under center. However, he still offers minimal fantasy appeal.

Rattler completed 20 of 32 passes for 233 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions while adding two rushes for 12 yards in the Saints' 26-14 loss to the Bears on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

Rattler came into the day having thrown just one interception and not yet having lost a fumble, but the Bears' defense put an end to that mostly clean slate. Chicago snagged interceptions at its own 32, 12 and 22-yard lines, consistently snuffing out scoring threats. Rattler did continue to put up solid numbers outside the turnovers and connected with favorite target Chris Olave for touchdown passes of 21 and 14 yards. Rattler will be back in his friendlier home environment for a Week 8 divisional showdown against the Buccaneers.

Rattler completed 20 of 26 passes for 227 yards in Sunday's 25-19 loss to the Patriots. He added 20 rushing yards on four carries.

The second-year QB didn't commit a turnover for the fifth time in six starts to begin the season, but Rattler also wasn't able to produce a touchdown as the Saints had to settle for four Blake Grupe field goals, as well as a one-yard TD run from Taysom Hill. Rattler's 8.7 YPA on Sunday was a season high, as were his 227 passing yards. He'll take a 6:1 TD:INT into a Week 7 matchup against the Bears.

Rattler completed 21 of 31 passes for 225 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 26-14 win over the Giants. He added 21 rushing yards on six carries.

The second-year QB led the Saints to their first win of the season with another relatively quiet, but turnover-free, performance. Rattler was able to pick his spots against a poor Giants secondary however, connecting with Rashid Shaheed on an 87-yard catch-and-run TD in the second quarter. Rattler doesn't appear to be in much danger of losing his starting job to rookie Tyler Shough despite the team's 1-4 record, posting a 6:1 TD:INT and 67.2 percent completion rate, albeit with a poor 5.6 YPA. He'll look to build on this performance in Week 6 against the Patriots.

Rattler was 18-for-27 passing for 126 yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 31-19 loss against the Bills.

Rattler threw under 34 passes and under 200 yards for the first time this season. The second-year quarterback has been underwhelming despite averaging 39.7 passing attempts through the first three regular-season games. Sunday's outing also marked the first time this season that the Saints have had more rushing attempts (34) than passing attempts (28). Rattler's production may suffer again if the Saints lean into the running game during their Week 5 matchup against the Giants, whose defense has allowed a league-worst 6.1 yards per carry.

Rattler completed 28 of 39 pass attempts for 218 yards, one touchdown and one interception while rushing twice for 10 yards in Sunday's 44-13 loss to the Seahawks.

Rattler failed to recreate the three-touchdown performance we saw from him in Week 2, resulting in numbers closer to his pedestrian game against Atlanta to open the season. The Saints were outmatched from the jump, falling behind by 32 points at halftime. Things got so bad that rookie backup Tyler Shough saw the field in garbage time. It wouldn't be surprising to see both quarterbacks flip roles at some point this season for the 0-3 Saints. For now, Rattler figures to continue starting for New Orleans when the team travels to Buffalo next Sunday.

Rattler completed 25 of 34 passes for 207 yards and three touchdowns in Sunday's 26-21 loss to the 49ers. He added 14 rushing yards on four carries.

The second-year quarterback kept the Saints in the game with TD tosses Juwan Johnson in the second quarter, Rashid Shaheed in the third and Devaughn Vele in the fourth, but Rattler's attempt at a game-winning drive in the final three minutes stalled out around midfield. The three scores were a career high for the QB, who tossed only four in seven games as a rookie, and perhaps more impressively he's gone two straight starts to begin 2025 without committing a turnover. Rattler will try to get his team into the win column in Week 3 against the Seahawks.

Rattler completed 27 of 46 passes for 214 yards in Sunday's 20-13 loss to the Cardinals. he added 29 rushing yards on four carries.

The second-year QB didn't commit a turnover, but that was about the only silver lining to his Week 1 performance. Rattler attempted a career-high 46 passes in his first game in new coach Kellen Moore's scheme despite the fact that the score was fairly close all the way through, but his 4.7 yards per attempt was poor. With Tyler Shough waiting in the wings, Rattler may need to improve his numbers quickly to keep his starting job, beginning with a Week 2 home tilt against the 49ers.

Coach Kellen Moore named Rattler the Saints' Week 1 starting quarterback Tuesday, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

The NFL's final QB competition finally has reached its conclusion, at least to begin the 2025 campaign, as Rattler has beat out rookie second-round pick Tyler Shough. In seven games (six starts) as a 2024 fifth-rounder last season, Rattler completed 130 of 228 passes (57 percent) for 1,317 yards, four touchdowns and five interceptions, had 18 carries for 146 yards and fumbled five times (three lost). He'll be under center for the Saints on Sunday, Sept. 7 against the Cardinals.

Rattler started the Saints' 28-19 preseason loss to the Broncos on Saturday afternoon and completed five of eight passes for 43 yards without a touchdown or interception while rushing once for no gain.

Rattler led the Saints' first three possessions before giving way to Tyler Shough, who was in the game until the fourth quarter. Rattler had noteworthy connections with Chris Olave of 12 and 10 yards, as well as a nine-yard completion to Rashid Shaheed, but Shough ultimately put up a more impressive showing. Rattler finished the preseason having gone 30-for-43 with 295 yards with a touchdown and an interception while adding seven rushes for 41 yards, and it remains to be seen if he did enough in the eyes of head coach Kellen Moore to earn the right to earn the Week 1 start against the Cardinals.

Rattler will start Saturday's preseason finale against the Broncos, Matthew Paras of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Head coach Kellen Moore said Tuesday that he hasn't decided who will start Week 1 under center for New Orleans, calling the competition between Rattler and rookie Tyler Shough "really, really close," per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Moore also confirmed Thursday that the decision to start Rattler on Saturday isn't informative of the team's plans for the regular season, per Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football. Still, if Rattler can again outplay Shough, as he did during Sunday's 17-17 preseason tie against Jacksonville, it would be a strong argument in favor of him beginning the regular season under center.

Head coach Kellen Moore said Tuesday that he has not made a decision on who the starting quarterback for the Saints will be for Week 1 against the Cardinals on Sunday, Sept. 7, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Rattler served as the QB2 for the Saints' 17-17 preseason tie against the Jaguars on Sunday, during which he completed 18 of 24 passes for 199 yards, one touchdown and one interception while rushing for 19 yards on two carries and added a two-point conversion. He played better than rookie Tyler Shough on Sunday, but Moore relayed that the competition between the two young quarterbacks is "really, really close." Saturday's preseason finale against the Broncos will be Rattler's last opportunity to audition for the starting job for Week 1.

Rattler completed 18 of 24 passes for 199 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 17-17 preseason tie against the Jaguars. He also rushed three times for 19 yards and ran in a two-point conversion.

After starting the Saints' preseason opener against the Chargers, Rattler waited until the second half to check in Sunday. Tyler Shough got the start but threw for only 66 yards in the first half and failed to lead a touchdown drive as the Saints trailed 17-3 at halftime. Rattler set the team up for a pair of third-quarter field goals, then bounced back from a fourth-quarter interception by throwing a 20-yard touchdown pass to Dante Pettis and running in the subsequent two-point conversion himself to tie the game with 21 seconds left. The pair of young quarterbacks will continue their competition Saturday in the preseason finale against the Broncos.

Rattler completed seven of 11 pass attempts for 53 yards and rushing thrice for 22 yards while losing a fumble in Sunday's 27-13 preseason loss to the Chargers.

Rattler was unimpressive in his preseason debut with the first-team offense, failing to generate points on any of the five drives he led Sunday. The 2024 fifth-round pick did pace the team in rushing yards (22), but he was also sacked three times and coughed up a fumble on the first play of the second quarter. Fellow starting candidate Tyler Shough also committed a turnover in relief of Rattler, but the rookie's interception was offset by scoring the team's only passing touchdown of the game. Rattler appeared to have the early edge in the starting QB competition coming into camp, but Shough had more success moving the ball on offense after one exhibition. The two young signal-callers will continue jockeying for position when the Saints host the Jaguars in next Sunday's preseason tilt.

Rattler will be the Saints' starting quarterback for Sunday's preseason opener against the Chargers.

Rattler saw more reps with the first-team offense during this past week's training camp practices, and the 2024 fifth-rounder will get the first crack at winning the QB1 job against Tyler Shough. Rattler started in six of seven games during his rookie campaign, including the final four contests of the regular season. Over those last four games, he completed 71 of 129 pass attempts for 746 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions while turning nine carries into 85 yards.

Rattler is getting first-team reps again Tuesday, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

It's the first time this summer that the same Saints QB has started off with the first-string offense in consecutive practices. Rattler also did the honors for Sunday's scrimmage and ended up playing five of the seven first-team drives. He'd already gotten a bit more work with the starters than Tyler Shough and Jake Haener had during training camp, with the past few days perhaps marking a shift even further in Rattler's direction. Underhill and Ross Jackson of WWL Louisiana are calling Rattler a clear favorite to start Week 1, although opinion has been more divided among Saints beat writers when it comes to the quality of the quarterbacks' performances in practice. Saints head coach Kellen Moore recently said he's "close" to making a decision on his Week 1 starter.

Rattler took most of the first-team snaps during Sunday's scrimmage, Ross Jackson of LouisianaSports.net reports.

Rattler reportedly played five of seven drives with the starters, compared to two for Tyler Shough and none for Jake Haener. All have gotten first-team reps this summer, but Rattler more so than the others, arguably making him the favorite to start Week 1. Preseason games will also factor into the decision, although Saints coach Kellen Moore hasn't revealed how he'll divide the QB snaps.

Rattler got most of the first-team reps Wednesday on the first day of training camp, but rookie Tyler Shough is scheduled to work with the starters Thursday, WWLAM's Jeff Nowak reports.

In other words, the Saints will treat their QB job battle as a 50-50 competition, although Shough likely has the tiebreaker, given his earlier draft status (second round) and Rattler's poor numbers last season. Taken in the fifth round last spring, Rattler ended up making six starts (all losses) and completing 57.0 percent of passes for 5.8 yards per attempt, with four touchdowns and five interceptions. He played better Week 18 at Tampa Bay, but Shough nonetheless seems like at least a slight favorite for the Week 1 start under a new coaching staff.

As a result of Derek Carr (shoulder) announcing his retirement from the NFL on Saturday, Rattler could battle with rookie Tyler Shough for the Saints' starting quarterback role to begin the 2025 campaign.

Carr's retirement leaves New Orleans with a QB room consisting of Rattler, Shough and Jake Haener. In terms of game experience, Rattler is the most experienced of the trio -- he got into seven games as a rookie last year but largely struggled, completing just 57 percent of his 228 pass attempts for 1,317 yards and a 4:5 TD:INT while adding 146 yards on the ground on 18 carries. However, Shough -- who is a rookie but is exactly one year older than Rattler -- may be the favorite for the QB1 role heading into training camp after the Saints took him in the second round of April's NFL Draft. As it currently stands, both QBs should have an opportunity to make a case for the Week 1 starting role throughout camp and preseason play, though there's an outside chance New Orleans could bring in a more seasoned QB via free agency or trade.

Rattler completed 26 of 42 passes for 240 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions and rushed once for 11 yards in the Saints' 27-19 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday.

The rookie quarterback got one final opportunity to gain experience and build his case for the future since Derek Carr (hand) remained sidelined, and Rattler made good use of the season-ending start. The South Carolina product was able to generate his second-highest yardage total of the season through the air and avoided an interception for the first time in his three consecutive season-ending starts. Rattler's solid performances over the last two games were particularly noteworthy considering the extremely short-handed nature of New Orleans' offense, and it remains to be seen where he'll slot in on the organizational depth chart heading into training camp next summer.

Rattler will remain the starting quarterback Sunday against the Buccaneers, as Derek Carr (hand) has been ruled out, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Rattler will make his sixth NFL start, having lost the first five. Including one relief appearance, the rookie fifth-round pick has posted a 3:5 TD:INT. The banged-up Saints will face an uphill battle Sunday on the road against a Buccaneers team that would clinch a playoff berth with a win.

Rattler completed 20 of 36 passes for 218 yards and a touchdown with two interceptions in Sunday's 25-10 loss to the Raiders. He added 46 rushing yards on three carries.

It was another tough outing for the 2024 fifth-round pick. Rattler has a 3:5 TD:INT in six appearances this season, but his 46 yards on the ground were at least a career high. With the Saints having nothing to play for in Week 18 but draft position, it's not clear if Derek Carr (hand) will even be an option for the team at QB, or if Rattler will finish out the season under center against the Buccaneers.

Rattler will start Sunday's game against the Raiders, as Derek Carr (hand) has been ruled out.

Rattler will make the fifth start of his career and second in a row. The rookie fifth-round draft pick has looked overwhelmed at the NFL level, throwing just one touchdown pass against three interceptions as a starter and most recently getting shut out by the Packers on Monday, though Rattler also tossed a touchdown pass in relief in Week 15. A potential silver lining for Rattler could be the possible return of top wide receiver Chris Olave (head), who is listed as questionable and has a chance to come off IR prior to Sunday's game after practicing without limitations all week.

Saints interim head coach Darren Rizzi said Tuesday that Rattler will continue to take reps with the first team in practice and will be in line to start Sunday against the Raiders if Derek Carr (hand) is unable to play, Ross Jackson of WWL Louisiana reports.

Though the left hand fracture that Carr sustained in a Week 14 win over the Giants had been viewed as something that would likely end his season, the veteran quarterback isn't closing the door on returning to the field for either of the Saints' final two games. That said, Rizzi didn't provide any indication that Carr would be ready to practice when the Saints begin Week 17 prep Wednesday, so Rattler still looks to be headed for a second straight start and his fifth of the season. The Saints have gone 0-4 in Rattler's prior four starts, with the rookie signal-caller completing 74 of 129 pass attempts (57.4 percent) for 724 yards (5.6 YPA), one touchdown and three interceptions in those contests. He's also lost three fumbles and has taken 17 sacks in those contests.

Rattler completed 15 of 30 passes for 153 yards with no touchdowns and one interception and added five rushes for 28 yards in the Saints' 34-0 loss to the Packers on Monday night. He also lost a fumble.

Rattler unsurprisingly struggled in the frigid temperatures of Lambeau Field, although he hung tough while taking three sacks overall. Rattler did give up the ball on one of those takedowns and did so in Packers territory, but the miscue didn't lead to any points for Green Bay. Rattler's other turnover on the night, a late third-quarter interception, likewise was followed by a Packers punt, but it had more opportunity cost associated with it considering it came at the Packers' two-yard line. While Rattler couldn't lead New Orleans to any points, there's seemingly no incentive for interim head coach Darren Rizzi to short-circuit the rookie fifth-round pick's valuable opportunity for reps over the final two games -- especially with a favorable home matchup against the Raiders coming up in Week 17 -- even if Derek Carr (hand/concussion) is deemed ready to play.

Rattler will start Monday at Green Bay with Derek Carr (left hand) ruled out for the contest, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Interim coach Darren Rizzi implied as much Thursday but still left the door open for Carr to prove his health as the week went on. However, Carr hasn't made enough progress in his recovery, allowing Rattler his fourth career start. In five appearances overall in his rookie campaign, Rattler has completed 69 of 120 passes (57.5 percent) for 706 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions, recorded nine carries for 61 yards and committed three fumbles (two lost). Jake Haener will serve as Rattler's backup Monday.

Rattler will start Monday's game against the Saints if Derek Carr (hand) doesn't play, ESPN.com's Katherine Terrell reports.

Reports suggest Carr is unlikely to play again this season, but Saints coach Darren Rizzi sees it differently, telling reporters that he hopes to get Carr "back here by the end of the year." Rizzi did acknowledge Carr is unlikely to play Monday, leaving Rattler as the probable starter and Jake Haener as the backup. There's a chance Rizzi makes that official Friday if Carr misses another practice.

Saints head coach Darren Rizzi announced Thursday that Rattler will start versus the Packers on Monday, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Rattler logged a solid showing after replacing Jake Haener under center during New Orleans' loss to Washington in Week 15, completing 10 of 21 passes for 135 yards and one touchdown, including a near last-second comeback. Quarterback Derek Carr (hand/concussion) is a candidate to miss the remainder of the season, though Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports that Rizzi left the door open for the veteran to play Week 16, if he manages to practice Saturday. A strong Week 16 showing could boost Rattler's chances of retaining his grip on the No. 1 gig to close out the 2024 campaign, but he's staring down a tough road matchup at Green Bay.

Rattler is expected to start Monday's game against the Packers with Derek Carr (hand/concussion) considered a few weeks away from being ready to take contact and likely to miss the rest of the season, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.

Coming out of the Saints' Week 14 win over the Giants, Carr entered concussion protocol and was also diagnosed with two fractures in his non-throwing hand. The latter injury is viewed as the greater concern and prevented him from playing in this past Sunday's 20-19 loss to the Commanders. Jake Haener drew the start for that contest but completed four of 10 pass attempts for 49 yards and an interception while taking three sacks before being benched at halftime in favor of Rattler. The rookie out of South Carolina nearly led the Saints to a comeback from a 17-0 deficit, completing 10 of 21 passes for 135 yards, including a one-yard touchdown to Foster Moreau as time expired. Rattler's potential game-winning pass to Juwan Johnson on the two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful, but he likely showed enough to get the starting nod over Haener heading into Week 16. Rattler previously made three starts in place of an injured Carr in Weeks 6 through 8, going 0-3 in those contests while completing 59.6 percent of

Rattler was 10-for-21 passing for 135 yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 20-19 loss versus the Commanders.

Rattler took over under center to begin the third quarter after starting quarterback Jake Haener completed just four passes in the first half. The latter signal-caller got the start with Derek Carr sidelined by a concussion and hand fracture that he suffered during last week's win against the Giants. After being held scoreless in the first half, the Saints went on four scoring drives with Rattler and nearly pulled off a comeback after he threw a one-yard touchdown pass to Foster Moreau as time expired. He then came up short when he failed to connect with tight Juwan Johnson on the ensuing two-point conversion attempt. With Carr likely out for the remainder of the season, it will likely be Rattler who gets the start for next week's game against Green Bay on Monday, Dec. 23.

Rattler appears to be set to operate as the No. 2 quarterback behind starter Jake Haener on Sunday versus the Commanders, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Rattler will handle backup duties as Haener will draw his first start of the year, stepping in for injured starter Derek Carr (head/hand) in Week 15. Rattler has completed 59 of 99 passes this season for 571 yards and a touchdown while throwing an interception over three games in 2024 and he'll be ready to go if thrust into the game Sunday against Washington.

Saints coach Darren Rizzi said Wednesday that he'll likely wait until Friday to choose between Rattler, Jake Haener and Derek Carr (head/hand) as the starting QB for Sunday's game at Green Bay, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Rattler was the emergency No. 3 QB for Sunday's 14-11 win over the Giants, while Haener replaced Carr after the 33-year-old suffered a concussion and hand fracture. The combination of injuries makes Carr a long shot to play Week 15, but the Saints aren't ready to rule him out yet and reportedly don't plan to place him on injured reserve. Rattler and Haener shared practice reps Wednesday, suggesting it's not a lock that Haener starts if Carr is inactive. Rattler made three starts in October while Carr recovered from an oblique injury, completing 59.6 percent of passes for 5.8 YPA, with one TD, four turnovers and 14 sacks as the Saints lost each game by at least 18 points. It would make sense to give Haener a shot now, but it's possible Rattler builds a case for himself in practice this week.

Rattler (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Giants.

Rattler will serve as the Saints' emergency quarterback for Week 14 behind starter Derek Carr and backup Jake Haener. Rattler will only see the field Sunday if both Carr and Haener were to leave the game due to injury.

Rattler (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Rams.

The 2024 fifth-round pick will serve as the emergency QB for the third straight game. Starter Derek Carr and backup Jake Haener would have to be injured and/or unavailable for Rattler to see action.

Rattler (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Browns.

For a second straight game, Rattler will serve as the Saints' third emergency quarterback. That means he will only be allowed to see the field Sunday if both starter Derek Carr and backup Jake Haener leave the game due to injury.

Rattler (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game in Carolina.

After starting three contests in place of Derek Carr (oblique), Rattler will relinquish control of the offense to the former, while Jake Haener will serve as the backup quarterback. Rattler will only see action Week 9 if both Carr and Haener leave the contest due to injury.

Rattler was 12-for-24 passing for 156 yards during Sunday's 26-8 loss against the Chargers.

Rattler remained ineffective during his third consecutive start in place of injured QB1 Derek Carr (oblique). The rookie signal-caller's longest completion was a screen pass that running back Alvin Kamara took 37 yards in the second quarter. Rattler was eventually benched when the Saints were down 16-5 midway through the third quarter, leaving Jake Haener to finish out the game under center. Carr is expected to be back for next week's game versus Charlotte. Even if the Saints' QB1 is not available, it seems like Rattler still may have lost his job as the temporary starter to Haener moving forward.

Rattler (hip) practiced fully Wednesday.

Almost a week removed from sustaining a hip pointer last Thursday against the Broncos, Rattler was able to handle a full allotment of practice reps to begin Week 8 prep. It comes on the heels of coach Dennis Allen stating Rattler likely will start Sunday's game at the Chargers with Derek Carr still in recovery mode from an oblique injury, per Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune. Rattler thus should get the nod over fellow QB Jake Haener after the former completed 47 of 75 passes for 415 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions, recorded nine carries for 61 yards and fumbled three times (two lost) in his first two career starts.

Coach Dennis Allen said Wednesday that Rattler (hip) likely will be the Saints' starting quarterback Sunday at the Chargers, Luke Johnson of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Derek Carr, who has been sidelined the last two games due to an oblique injury, took part in throwing sessions Monday and Tuesday, which seemingly were scheduled to determine where he stood in his recovery. As of Wednesday, Allen doesn't believe Carr will be ready for Week 8 action, allowing Rattler to get a third start in a row. Rattler emerged from last Thursday's to the Broncos with a hip pointer, but the issue won't stop him from being available this weekend. In his first two career starts, the rookie fifth-rounder has completed 47 of 75 passes for 415 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions, rushed nine times for 61 yards and fumbled three times (two lost).

Saints head coach Dennis Allen said Monday that Rattler (hip) will start Sunday's game against the Chargers if Derek Carr (oblique) remains sidelined, Ross Jackson of WWL Louisiana reports.

Rattler was forced out of last Thursday's 33-10 loss to the Broncos late in the fourth quarter due to a hip pointer, but it doesn't sound like the injury is a real threat to keep him sidelined Week 8. Despite the rookie fifth-round pick's miserable performance versus Denver, in which he logged just 4.9 yards per attempt and lost two fumbles, Rattler seems slated to retain a grip on the No. 1 role until such time as Carr is cleared to retake the field.

Rattler exited Thursday's 33-10 loss to the Broncos late in the fourth quarter due to a hip pointer, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.

New Orleans' was missing several skill-position players and offensive linemen, but Rattler still turned in a very poor performance by averaging 4.9 yards per attempt while turning the ball over twice. He exited late in the blowout loss, though that decision seemed to come primarily out of precaution. Nevertheless, his practice status leading up to a Week 8 matchup against the Chargers will be worth monitoring, as Derek Carr (oblique) continues to nurse an injury of his own.

Rattler completed 22 of 40 passes for 243 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in the Saints' 51-27 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday. He also rushed four times for 27 yards and fumbled once but recovered.

The rookie fifth-round pick did not look out of his element despite facing a veteran defense with aggressive tendencies. Rattler recorded his first touchdown pass via a 10-yard strike to Bub Means just before the midway point of the second quarter, and he continued battling throughout the game despite the game eventually getting away from New Orleans. Reports earlier Sunday indicated Derek Carr (oblique) could be down for up to four games, so Rattler certainly projects for another start Thursday night at home against the Broncos.

The Saints expect Rattler to start the next three-to-four weeks while Derek Carr (oblique) is out, Jay Glazer reported on Fox NFL Sunday.

Earlier the Saints suggested that Carr was a week-to-week proposition, so this report just gives a little more clarity to that timeframe.

Rattler will start Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Coach Dennis Allen made the announcement Wednesday, choosing the rookie over Jake Haener even though Haener was active as the backup quarterback Weeks 1-5 (while Rattler was merely the emergency No. 3 QB). With Derek Carr (oblique) expected to miss multiple games, Rattler has a big opportunity ahead, starting with a home game against a struggling Bucs defense.

Rattler is viewed as a "strong candidate" to start Sunday against the Buccaneers with Derek Carr (oblique) expected to miss multiple games, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

A rookie fifth-round pick out of South Carolina, Rattler has yet to make his NFL debut, as he's been inactive as the Saints' No. 3 quarterback behind Carr and Jake Haener through the team's first five games. Though it was Haener who entered in relief of the injured Carr for the final possession of Monday's 26-13 loss to the Chiefs, the Saints may be inclined to turn the offense over to Rattler, who possesses strong arm talent but at times played recklessly during his five-year collegiate career. During his three preseason appearances, Rattler completed 20 of 38 pass attempts (52.6 percent) for 202 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions while rushing seven times for 26 yards and a lost fumble.

Rattler (coach's decision) is inactive ahead of Monday night's matchup against the Chiefs.

Rattler will serve as the Saints' emergency third quarterback for the fifth consecutive game Monday night. The 2024 fifth-round pick will be able to take the field only if both Derek Carr and Jake Haener sustain injuries.

Rattler (coach's decision) is inactive Sunday against the Falcons, but he'll still suit up as the Saints' emergency third quarterback.

Rattler will again be officially inactive behind Derek Carr and No. 2 Jake Haener, but he'll be available to take the field in the event that both quarterbacks in front of him suffer injuries. The rookie fifth-round pick is still looking for a chance to make his regular-season debut.

Rattler (coach's decision) is inactive Sunday against the Eagles, but he'll still suit up as the team's emergency third quarterback.

Rattler will once again be technically available as the No. 3 quarterback behind starter Derek Carr and No. 2 Jake Haener. However, Rattler will only be able to enter the game if the other two quarterbacks get injured.

Rattler (coach's decision) is inactive Sunday against the Panthers, but he'll still suit up as the team's emergency third quarterback.

Rattler was considered a co-backup with Jake Haener to Derek Carr, but it will be Haener officially handling the backup role in Week 1.

The Saints listed Rattler as a co-backup on their depth chart Tuesday, Katherine Terrell of ESPN reports.

Rattler and Jake Haener were both named as co-backups to Derek Carr on New Orleans' depth chart. Both quarterbacks posted similar stats in the preseason, and who will serve as the team's No. 2 quarterback will officially be announced at some point before Sunday's matchup against the Panthers.

Rattler completed seven of 13 passes for 105 yards and one touchdown in Sunday's 30-27 preseason loss to the Titans. He added two rushing attempts for 13 yards.

Jake Haener started under center but the offense punted on both of his drives, then Rattler capped his first possession in the game with a 21-yard touchdown pass to Equanimeous St. Brown and ultimately led three touchdown drives on his four possessions while the Saints mustered only three points in six drives with Haener under center. Rattler likely had some ground to make up in the competition to be Derek Carr's backup quarterback since Haener got the start for this preseason finale, but Sunday's results were likely enough to flip the script in the rookie fifth-round draft pick's favor. New Orleans may ultimately keep both Rattler and Haener -- a 2023 fourth-round draft pick -- on the roster heading into the Sept. 8 regular-season opener against the Panthers.

Rattler completed four of eight passes for 27 yards and logged three rushes for five yards during Sunday's 16-10 preseason defeat versus the 49ers. He also lost one fumble and was sacked twice.

Rattler seemingly took a step back after his strong preseason debut. The fifth-round rookie took over from starter Derek Carr midway through the second quarter, marking a change from the presason opener when second-year quarterback Jake Haener first followed Carr. But, Rattler off to a rough start right away when he was strip-sacked on his fourth snap of the game Sunday, and the Saints finished with three points across Rattler's four offensive series. Haener and Rattler wound up playing exactly 24 offensive snaps against San Francisco, though neither seemed to separate themselves with their performance. Therefore, the competition for the team's No. 2 quarterback spot should come down to the preseason finale versus Tennesse on Sunday, Aug. 25.

Rattler said after Friday's practice that his bruised thigh now is 100 percent, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.

Rattler completed nine of 17 passes for 70 yards and notched two carries for eight yards and one touchdown in his pro debut this past Saturday in Arizona, but he emerged from the preseason contest with a thigh injury and subsequently didn't practice Sunday. He returned to drills Tuesday, and by Friday he was operating as he normally would. It's unclear how the QB reps will break down for this Sunday's exhibition at San Francisco, but Rattler likely is in line for another significant workload, even if Derek Carr and Jake Haener make appearances.

Rattler (thigh) took part in Tuesday's practice, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Rattler entered this past Saturday's exhibition in Arizona after Derek Carr (two drives) and Jake Haener (the rest of the first half), and the rookie fifth-rounder completed nine of 17 passes for 70 yards while tallying two rushes for right yards and a touchdown by game's end. On Sunday, the Saints were back on the practice field, but Rattler didn't join his teammates due to a bruised thigh. He was allowed to mix back into drills just two days later, but Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com noted that Rattler was visibly limping from time to time. If the issue lingers into this weekend, there's a chance New Orleans exercises caution and keeps Rattler on the sideline Sunday at San Francisco.

Rattler was unavailable for practice Sunday due to a thigh bruise, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Rattler appears to have suffered the injury in Saturday's 16-14 win over the Cardinals and he's expected to be back for the team's next practice. The quarterback completed nine passes for 70 yards while also turning two carries into eight yards and a score against Arizona. Rattler will look to return to the field as soon as possible as he's in the midst of a competition with Jake Haener for the top backup role behind Derek Carr in 2024.

Rattler completed nine of 17 passes for 70 yards and tallied two carries for eight yards and a touchdown during Saturday's 16-14 preseason win at Arizona.

No. 1 signal-caller Derek Carr handled the Saints' first two offensive possessions Saturday, while Jake Haener got the rest of the QB reps in the first half. After halftime, Rattler, a 2024 fourth-round pick, entered for his first NFL action, putting together an immediate scoring drive that ended in his four-yard scramble for a TD. He then went three straight drives that ended in punts before leading a game-winning drive for a field goal. The breakdown of reps between Haener and Rattler may indicate the former is leading the competition for the backup role, but the latter's performance could put him on a path to eventually grabbing the No. 2 gig for good.