Saints Appoint Tyler Shough as Starting Quarterback, Bench Spencer Rattler

The New Orleans Saints have officially appointed Tyler Shough as their starting quarterback, shifting away from Spencer Rattler. This significant decision follows a week marked by Rattler’s struggles, most notably his throwing of a pick-six during the team’s latest game.

Background on Tyler Shough

Tyler Shough was selected as the 40th overall pick in April’s draft. Despite a solid offseason, he was initially overshadowed by the more experienced Rattler. Over the first eight games of the season, Rattler recorded eight touchdown passes and five interceptions, contributing to the Saints’ disappointing 1-7 record.

Announcement by Head Coach Kellen Moore

Head coach Kellen Moore announced on October 28, 2025, that Shough will start in the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams. Moore has expressed a desire for Shough to remain the starter for the duration of the season unless unforeseen circumstances arise.

Rattler’s Recent Performance

• Spencer Rattler finished the last game with 15 completions out of 21 attempts for 136 yards, but he also threw an interception.
• In his last two outings, Rattler has thrown four interceptions, heightening concerns about his effectiveness as a starter.

Shough’s Opportunity

Tyler Shough has had minimal exposure on the field, as he only played one offensive series prior to being called up. His previous NFL experience included two incomplete passes against the Seattle Seahawks on September 21. However, according to team sources, Shough has made significant progress since then.

Future Considerations

The Saints are in a rebuilding phase, reflected in their overall performance and the ongoing discussions about potential trades before the November 4 deadline. Rumors indicate that wide receiver Chris Olave might be on the trading block. While trading established talent could complicate Shough’s entry, it may also influence the Saints’ strategy heading into the 2026 draft.

Conclusion

This promotion marks a crucial moment for Tyler Shough, serving both as an opportunity to prove himself and as an audition for his role in the future of the Saints. As the team evaluates potential quarterbacks in the upcoming draft, Shough’s performances will play a pivotal role in that decision-making process.