Full Breakdown
Saints Retain Backup QB Spencer Rattler Amid Trade Interest
8/30/2026, 5:50:18 AM
Core Decision: Saints Opt to Keep Rattler
The New Orleans Saints waived fourth-quarterback Hunter Dekkers and confirmed that Spencer Rattler will remain on the roster alongside Zach Wilson as depth behind starter Tyler Shough. Although multiple teams expressed interest, the organization indicated it will not pursue a trade at this time.
Background & Context
Spencer Rattler was selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He earned the starting role for the first eight games of the 2025 season, posting a 1-7 record before being replaced at halftime by rookie Tyler Shough during a 23-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Oct. 26, 2025. Shough finished the season strong and was later named a finalist for the Associated Press Offensive Rookie of the Year award, establishing himself as the clear quarterback 1 heading into the 2026 offseason. Rattler therefore entered 2026 as the backup.
Data & Statistics
- Career passing (2024-2025): 2,903 yards, 12 touchdowns, 10 interceptions.
- 2025 season (first eight starts): 67.7 % completion, 1,586 yards, eight touchdowns, five interceptions.
- 2024 rookie season: 57 % completion, four touchdowns, five interceptions.
- 2026 preseason (three games): 30-of-44 passes (68.2 %); 262 yards, one interception; 30 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.
- Cap charge: $1.159 million for 2026 and $1.274 million for 2027, remaining under his rookie contract through 2027.
Official Statements & Responses
ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler reported on August 29, 2026, that the Saints had received trade interest in Rattler but intended to retain him as insurance behind Shough. NewOrleans Football’s Nick Underhill confirmed that the Jacksonville Jaguars inquired about Rattler after a joint practice and a preseason game, but the Saints “were not interested in trading.” Underhill added that the Jaguars ultimately pursued quarterback Quinn Ewers from the Miami Dolphins instead.
On-the-Ground Reports
During the preseason matchup on August 28, 2026, New Orleans defeated Dallas 27-24. Rattler contributed an eight-yard rushing touchdown as the Saints rebounded from a shutout loss to the Los Angeles Rams a week earlier. Both Rattler and Zach Wilson competed for the backup role in camp, with the team describing their performances as solid.
Why It Matters
Retaining Rattler provides the Saints with a low-cost, experienced backup who has already started 14 NFL games. His modest cap hit makes him a financially efficient insurance policy should Shough miss time or struggle. The lack of a compelling trade offer—illustrated by the Jaguars’ decision to acquire Ewers for a later-round draft pick—reinforces the value the Saints place on Rattler’s experience relative to his draft-pick cost.
Timeline
What’s Next
Barring a more attractive offer, Rattler is expected to serve as the backup quarterback for the Saints throughout the 2026 season, providing depth behind Tyler Shough.
