Saints Quarterback Situation Unsettled Heading into 2025 as Rookie Minicamp Begins
As the New Orleans Saints prepare for the 2025 NFL season, questions loom large around one of the most important positions on the field: quarterback. With Derek Carr facing an unexpected shoulder injury, uncertainty surrounds his availability, casting a shadow over the team’s offensive direction.
Despite this dilemma, the Saints are moving forward with their offseason work. Under new head coach Kellen Moore, who joined the franchise after winning a Super Bowl as the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles earlier this year, New Orleans is determined to re-establish itself as a contender.
The Saints officially unveiled their rookie minicamp roster on Wednesday, ahead of the sessions beginning Thursday at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center in Metairie, Louisiana. Among those listed are all nine of the team’s 2025 NFL Draft picks, none of whom have signed contracts yet.
The most notable name on that list is quarterback Tyler Shough, selected in the second round (40th overall) — a pick that raised eyebrows across the league. Shough was the third quarterback taken in the draft, chosen ahead of more well-known names such as Jalen Milroe, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. His selection has led to widespread speculation about what direction the Saints intend to go at quarterback.
What Happens if Derek Carr Misses 2025?
Derek Carr’s injury has created a vacuum at the top of the Saints’ quarterback depth chart. The nature of his shoulder issue remains somewhat mysterious, but there is speculation that surgery may be required, which would sideline him for the entire 2025 season. That scenario would force the Saints to accelerate their evaluation of internal options — and possibly hand the reins to a young signal-caller sooner than anticipated.
The Saints still have Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener, two quarterbacks who remained with the team from the 2024 roster. Both saw limited action last season, showing flashes but not enough consistency to earn a firm hold on the starting job. Now, with Carr’s status in limbo, the battle between Rattler, Haener, and Shough could shape the entire trajectory of New Orleans’ season.
Kellen Moore, known for his creative and quarterback-friendly offensive systems, will be tasked with quickly identifying which player can run his offense most effectively. Whether it’s the rookie Shough, the unproven Rattler, or the steady Haener, the Saints need clarity — and soon.
A New Era Begins
The 2025 season represents a clean slate for the Saints, not only because of the coaching change but also due to a broader shift in leadership and culture. Moore is known for his offensive acumen and player development, and his influence will be most directly measured by how well the Saints’ quarterbacks perform.
With rookie minicamp underway and training camp around the corner, the spotlight will intensify on New Orleans’ quarterback room. Tyler Shough’s development, in particular, will be one of the most watched storylines this offseason. If Carr can’t return, Shough may find himself competing for — or even winning — the starting job as a rookie.
Ultimately, the Saints have multiple options, but none are proven. Whether one of their young quarterbacks can seize the moment or the team is forced to seek help elsewhere, New Orleans’ quarterback dilemma may define the early days of Kellen Moore’s tenure.
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