Derek Carr’s unexpected retirement due to a degenerative shoulder injury has left the New Orleans Saints scrambling for answers.
The sudden departure has created a wide-open quarterback competition heading into the upcoming season, with no clear frontrunner in sight.
Training camp will feature an intriguing three-way battle between rookie Tyler Shough, second-year player Spencer Rattler, and third-year quarterback Jake Haener.
Saints fans are holding their breath as they await the coaching staff’s decision on who will lead their offense this season.
Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel recently weighed in with a prediction on Fox Sports’ “The Facility” about who might win the starting job in New Orleans.
“The Saints have zero quarterback wins on their roster. That’s why I think they’ll go with a rookie. […] The thing about Tyler Shough, he is Kellen Moore’s scout. The other two guys on the roster, Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler. They were not drafted by Kellen Moore. Kellen Moore hand-picked this guy. There’s going to be some bumps. He’s a rookie, but I do believe he’s a day one starter,” Daniel said.
Tyler Shough will be QB1 for the #Saints Day 1.
What sold them? Elite arm talent + high-level football IQ.
Here’s a 2-play breakdown on why New Orleans believes he’s the guy to turn this franchise around. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/FbCQRKywV9
— Chase Daniel (@ChaseDaniel) May 12, 2025
The Saints quarterback room lacks proven NFL success, and Shough brings a combination of physical tools and mental processing that aligns with new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore’s vision for the offense.
Daniel pointed to specific game film where Shough displayed NFL ready traits that impressed him.
These included executing play action from under center, reading complex coverages, and delivering accurate throws in tight windows.
What stood out most to Daniel wasn’t just Shough’s arm talent but his football intelligence.
While rookie growing pains are inevitable, Daniel believes Shough’s football IQ and natural fit in Moore’s system make him the logical choice to start immediately.
The New Orleans Saints demonstrated remarkable confidence in Shough, passing on opportunities to select prospects like Jaxson Dart and Shedeur Sanders in favor of their guy.
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