Saints preseason update on Rattler and Shough

Spencer Rattler faces a mixed test as Tyler Shough logs more snaps in Sunday's preseason opener against the Chargers.

Rattler delivers uneven Saints preseason debut

In Sundays preseason opener, Saints rookie Tyler Shough commanded more snaps and helped produce two scoring drives, including the teams only touchdown. Spencer Rattler appeared in three series, finished 7-of-11 for 53 yards and added 22 rushing yards on three carries. He also absorbed three sacks and lost a fumble, with one drive extended by a muffed punt but the offense failed to reach the end zone.

New Orleans struggled to move the ball against Chargers backups and did not sustain momentum on multiple drives. Rattler acknowledged the uneven showing, citing too many ups and downs, room for better third-down execution, and a need to finish in the red zone after the muffed punt on fourth and one.

This game underscored a quarterback competition still in flux. Shough showed mobility and kept drives alive long enough to produce a scoring sequence, while Rattler flashed potential but needs cleaner reads and improved ball security. The Saints own evaluation will hinge on consistency, decision-making, and leadership on multiple drives across the next exhibitions.

Preseason football often exposes gaps more clearly than it hides them. New Orleans faced Chargers backups, which means the result should be read as a data point rather than a verdict. The coaching staff will weigh whether the first unit can balance risk and playmaking as the summer moves toward the regular season.

Highlights

The path to Week 1 will be defined by development in the practice room and on the field.