Shough Leads Saints in Preseason Opener

Shough takes the most reps in a three way quarterback competition during the Saints' preseason opener.

Rookie QB Tyler Shough Leads Saints in Preseason Opener

Spencer Rattler started the Saints' preseason opener, followed by Tyler Shough and Jake Haener, with all three listed as first stringers. Rattler went 7 of 11 for 53 yards and added 22 rushing yards on three attempts, while a muffed punt extended a Chargers drive. Shough worked six series, completing 15 of 22 passes for 165 yards, with a touchdown and a pick six. He capped the stretch by throwing a 54-yard touchdown pass to Mason Tipton on the next drive. Haener finished with five completions on eight attempts for 41 yards and an interception.

Coach Kellen Moore said the three way competition will produce both bright moments and mistakes, and the team will learn from each one. The result is a competitive, open battle that will stretch into at least another preseason game as the Saints consider how best to prepare a Week 1 starter. The takeaway so far is that Shough showed late poise after the interception and the Saints have yet to settle on a clear leader.

Shough’s ability to settle after a mistake stands out, suggesting he can handle NFL pace. Yet the Saints have three capable options, and the competition will test how each player handles reps, rhythm, and playcalling. Moore’s approach seems to be giving every candidate chances to spark consistency while preserving a clear plan for development. The next preseason game will be telling as the coaching staff weighs which path offers the best balance of upside and reliability.

Highlights

The next tune up will reveal how the plan evolves.