The New Orleans Saints are navigating a pivotal offseason as four quarterbacks are competing for the quarterback role after Derek Carr’s retirement which was announced earlier this month. The departure of the veteran quarterback has opened the door for a heated competition, with each quarterback eager to prove themselves as the team’s next QB1. However, an unexpected injury to Jake Haener has added twist to the battle, potentially reshaping the race for the battle of QB1, as organized team activities continue (OTAs).
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The quarterback competition took a hit when Jake Haener, a fourth-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft, suffered an oblique strain during practice on Wednesday, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. An MRI confirmed the injury, which will sideline Haener for a couple of weeks but does not require any surgery. The third-string quarterback is expected to return by late July for training camp. However, missing OTAs puts Haener at a disadvantage in the race for the starting quarterback job. Last season, Haener appeared in 8 games, starting for one, and threw for 226 yards, including his first career touchdown.
With Haener currently out, the spotlight now shifts to remaining contenders including, second year quarterback Spencer Rattler who could be the favorite to land the QB1 role. But the Saints also have two rookie QBs, Tyler Shough and Hunter Dekkers, who are also in the mix for the QB1 job. Head coach Kellen Moore has emphasized that all quarterbacks will have an equal opportunity to compete, making every practice rep crucial.
The Saints’ quarterback battle will be the focal point for the team as training camp approaches. Haener’s absense may hinder his chances, but his expected return could still allow him to make a case for himself. Meanwhile, Rattler, Shough, and Dekkers will look to capitalize on their opportunities to impress Moore and the coaching staff. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on New Orleans to see who will emerge as the Saints’ next starting quarterback, ready to lead the team in the 2025 season.
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