The New Orleans Saints have an intriguing backup quarterback competition brewing. Spencer Rattler, the rookie, has been generating excitement among fans. Meanwhile, Jake Haener, a young quarterback with experience in the system, is determined to fight for his chance to be the future QB of the Saints.
Jake Haener is ready for the competition with Spencer Rattler. “Spencer is great, but at the end of the day I don’t care who they draft,” Haener said. “They’re gonna draft people to try to come replace me every year. It’s kind of really been the same story for me. I’ve always been the underdog, always had that mentality, and I’ve just got to prove people wrong. If that’s you guys – great.”
Of course, Haener was not going to just roll over because a new guy joined him in the QB room. He’s always been a competitive spirit, and he’s got even more to prove after a frustrating 2023.
Haener was suspended for six games of the regular season after gaining some traction in the preseason during a competition with Jameis Winston.
With that setback behind him, Haener must now focus on fending off the rookie Rattler. So far in OTAs, Haener has been the most precise and impressive QB in practices. Reports from camp have been positive, and Derek Carr has consistently been a fan of Haener’s game.
The competition between the backup options will intensify during the preseason. Both QBs will get plenty of reps against live-action opponents, providing ample opportunity to showcase their skills. Don’t expect Derek Carr to get too many reps, especially later in the preseason, as the focus will be on evaluating Haener and Rattler.
All in all, it’s refreshing to see Haener’s honesty. He’s enjoying the competition but remains determined to beat out Rattler. You wouldn’t want any other mindset from the young QB. It’s preferable to see him exhibit that fire rather than resorting to “coach speak” positivity when asked about the battle.