Full Breakdown
New Orleans Saints Waive Quarterback Jake Haener Ahead of Season
8/27/2025, 11:45:19 AM
Waiver Announcement and Roster Implications
The New Orleans Saints have officially waived quarterback Jake Haener as they finalize their 53-man roster ahead of the 2025 NFL season. This decision, reported by Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, eliminates Haener from contention for the starting quarterback position, which is now narrowed down to Spencer Rattler and rookie Tyler Shough. The Saints are set to open their season on September 7 against the Arizona Cardinals.
Haener's Performance and Career Overview
Jake Haener, a fourth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, had a challenging tenure with the Saints. Over the past two seasons, he appeared in eight games, starting one, and completed 18 of 39 passes for 226 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. His performance in the preseason this year was underwhelming; he completed 10 of 17 passes for 78 yards with an interception and did not play in one of the preseason games. Despite being a consensus pick to make the roster among local media, Haener's lack of game action and the emergence of Rattler and Shough ultimately led to his release.
Official Statements & Responses
While the Saints have not publicly commented on the specifics of Haener's release, it is clear that the team's decision reflects their confidence in Rattler and Shough. Head coach Kellen Moore has emphasized the importance of evaluating the quarterbacks based on their preseason performances. Following the Saints' recent preseason game, Moore stated, "We'll study the film... and then at some point next week we'll make that decision."
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the Saints' decision argue that waiving Haener leaves the team vulnerable, especially given the uncertainty surrounding their quarterback situation. Some analysts suggest that maintaining three quarterbacks is a prudent strategy, particularly for a team facing questions about its offensive capabilities. The decision to cut Haener, who was expected to be a backup, raises concerns about the depth of the Saints' quarterback room.
What's Next for Haener
Following his waiver, Haener is eligible to be claimed by another team. Reports indicate that he may have an opportunity to return to the Saints' practice squad if he clears waivers. However, there is speculation that he might seek a fresh start with a different franchise, given the competitive landscape and his limited opportunities in New Orleans.
Conclusion
The waiver of Jake Haener marks a significant shift in the New Orleans Saints' quarterback dynamics as they prepare for the upcoming season. With Rattler and Shough now the only active quarterbacks, the Saints face a pivotal decision that could impact their performance in 2025. As the team moves forward, the implications of this decision will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
