Zach Wilson And Spencer Rattler Are Fighting For One Saints Job

The New Orleans Saints enter the 2026 NFL season with complete certainty at the starting quarterback position. Tyler Shough solidified his role atop the depth chart after taking over during Week 9 of the previous season, eventually throwing for 2,384 yards and delivering a 5-4 record as a starter.

Management spent the offseason constructing an offense specifically tailored to his skill set and passing abilities. The front office added running back Travis Etienne Jr. and guard David Edwards to ensure stability in the backfield, while also drafting tight end Oscar Delp.

Two Candidates Emerge For The Backup Role

Spencer Rattler initially held the starting job before Shough took over the offense last season. Rattler possesses 16 games of professional experience and remains on the roster as a potential backup option. But the fans, and coaches, got to see what Rattler looked like running Moore's offense...and they might not feel super confident in that. There were a lot questioning if he was a competent NFL QB at that point...which might be why the Saints made another move.

However, the organization signed former second overall draft pick Zach Wilson to a one year contract in March 2026. Wilson brings 33 career starts, 23 passing touchdowns, and 6,325 passing yards to the quarterback room...making him a highly experienced alternative to evaluate during camp. Its not every day that a top 3 NFL Draft pick rolls up to your quarterback room.

The Insurance Policy For The 2026 Season

The ideal scenario for the Saints involves Shough remaining completely healthy and taking every offensive snap this year. His continued development under Head Coach Kellen Moore dictates the competitive ceiling for the Saints in 2026.

A reliable backup quarterback remains a mandatory requirement for any professional football team navigating a full schedule. The upcoming training camp will determine whether Rattler or Wilson secures that critical insurance role on the active roster.