Saints’ QB Decision Comes Down to Final Preseason Game Against Broncos

Head coach Kellen Moore remains deliberate in his approach to naming the New Orleans Saints’ starting quarterback for Week 1. He confirmed that the decision will not come until after the team’s third and final preseason game against the Denver Broncos. By waiting, Moore ensures that both Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler receive every possible chance to separate themselves before the regular season begins.

Moore said, “We’ve got three days of practice and a game [against the Broncos], so we’ve got some excellent work coming our way.” He added that the competition is “really, really close—numbers, experiences, reps… everything. We’ll see how it all plays out.”

The Saints open their regular season on September 7 against the Arizona Cardinals. Moore joked that the decision would be made “hopefully before that.”

Statistical Comparison

Through two preseason games, the numbers reveal how close the battle has been. Rattler has completed 71.4 percent of his passes, totaling 252 yards, one touchdown, and one interception while taking three sacks. Shough’s line looks very similar: 70.6 percent completions, 231 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and four sacks.

The near-identical production explains most of why Moore has been unable to name a starter. From mechanics to poise, both have flashed moments of maturity. They’ve also shown the growing pains of adjusting to NFL defenses and learning a new offense.

Performance Highlights

Preseason performances have fueled the debate. In the matchup against Jacksonville, Rattler delivered an impressive outing, completing 18 of 24 passes for 199 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He also rushed for 19 yards and added a two-point conversion. Those numbers highlighted his ability to create plays both inside and outside the pocket.

Shough, who started the same game, showed efficiency. He completed nine of 12 passes for 66 yards. Though his numbers were modest, he operated the offense smoothly and avoided risky throws.

Yahoo Sports’ Jason Owens observes that neither has played their best as the starter, making most of their best throws against backups and third-stringers. “Each performed better as the backup quarterback while facing defensive competition deeper on opponents’ depth charts,” he wrote.

What’s at Stake

The Saints’ quarterback battle represents more than just a Week 1 depth chart decision. Shough, a second-round pick, has been described as Moore’s long-term investment. His draft status suggests the team envisions him as a future franchise option. Rattler, who started six games a season ago, faces the challenge of outperforming his teammate decisively if he hopes to seize the job in the short term.

Moore’s patience signals his commitment to competition and fairness. He has praised both quarterbacks for their preparation and maturity. By delaying the choice, he ensures the starter earns the role on the field, not through draft pedigree or external pressure.

However, the Broncos game now looms large. Every throw and decision will be scrutinized as Moore evaluates the quarterbacks one last time. With the opener against Arizona just days away, the Saints will soon know who leads them into the 2025 season.

The pressure is on Moore to get this decision, the biggest of his young career, right. The pressure is on Shough and Rattler to prove they can win the job with the full confidence of their coach and their fans.