Full Breakdown
Zach Wilson’s Preseason Surge Sparks Depth-Chart Debate and Trade Talk
8/17/2026, 12:03:35 AM
Preseason Debut Highlights
In the Saints’ opening preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, backup quarterback Zach Wilson entered in the second quarter and completed 11 of 16 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown. He engineered a nine-play, 84-yard drive that set up a field-goal before halftime and later connected with rookie tight end Oscar Delp for a scoring pass after a replay-reviewed near-touchdown to wide receiver Bub Means was ruled out of bounds. The Saints ultimately fell 24-20, but Wilson’s efficiency—9.1 yards per attempt versus Spencer Rattler’s 3.6 yards per attempt—stood out.
Background: Wilson’s Journey to New Orleans
Wilson was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, selected by the New York Jets. After three seasons with the Jets and a 2025 stint as a backup with the Miami Dolphins, he signed with the Saints in the offseason. The Saints entered the preseason with Tyler Shough as the presumed starter, Spencer Rattler as the primary backup, and Wilson competing for the No. 2 spot.
Statistical Summary
- Zach Wilson: 11/16, 145 yards, 1 TD, 9.1 Y/A
- Spencer Rattler: 8/11, 42 yards, 0 TD, 3.6 Y/A, 1 fumble, 2 sacks
- Jaguars backups: Nick Mullens 3/7, 33 yards, 1 INT; Carter Bradley 10/17, 105 yards, 0 TD, 3 sacks
Wilson’s completion rate (68.8%) and yards per attempt surpassed Rattler’s (72.7% but far lower yardage), positioning him as a strong contender for the backup role.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Kellen Moore declined to confirm any imminent depth-chart changes, noting that Rattler “did some positive things” and that practice reps would be evaluated after the next preseason outing. “I don’t think about it like that,” — Zach Wilson
Trade Speculation and Analyst Commentary
The same sentiment appears in multiple outlets, noting the Jaguars’ recent player-for-player swap (center Luke Fortner for defensive tackle Khalen Saunders) and their need for a reliable second-string quarterback.
The Saints’ front office, including general manager Mickey Loomis, has not publicly addressed trade interest. However, James Gladstone, Jacksonville’s general manager, was identified as a potential contact for a deal, with analysts noting that Wilson would likely serve as QB2 behind Lawrence if acquired.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don’t think about it like that,” — Zach Wilson, quarterback
What’s Next
The Saints will evaluate quarterback performances in their upcoming preseason game before finalizing the 53-man roster. Jacksonville’s front office may explore trade options before the regular season, pending roster assessments and draft-pick valuations.
