Saints Name Spencer Rattler Starting QB Over Tyler Shough for Week 1

In a headline-making decision today, New Orleans Saints head coach Kellen Moore officially named Spencer Rattler as the starting quarterback for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season against the Arizona Cardinals. The announcement concludes a highly competitive preseason QB battle with rookie Tyler Shough, spotlighting Rattler’s consistent performance, decision-making maturity, and growth trajectory as factors tipping the scales in his favor  .

The starting QB race was tightly contested all summer. Rattler started the first and final preseason games, while Shough took the helm in Week 2 against Jacksonville  . As camp progressed, head coach Moore remained noncommittal, stating the decision was “really, really close” and would follow the final preseason matchup  .

Coach Moore cited Rattler’s consistency and sound decision-making as critical reasons for selecting him as QB1  . Rattler’s preseason stat line—30 completions on 43 attempts for 295 yards, one touchdown, one interception, and 41 rushing yards—showcased his dual-threat capability  . Meanwhile, despite Shough’s impressive development (333 passing yards, one TD, one interception, and a rushing touchdown), Rattler just edged ahead in the final evaluation 

• Spencer Rattler responded to the news with eagerness and determination:
  “I’m obviously excited to be the guy going into Week 1. Want to lead this team… Just keep fighting… putting my all on that field… good to gain that confidence from your coach.”

• Coach Moore offered praise for both quarterbacks and emphasized the long-term value of developing both. Shough, he said, had also showcased growth and potential throughout the offseason  .