The New Orleans Saints have a backup quarterback controversy — so to speak. Derek Carr is the clear-cut starter, and it’s between rookie Spencer Rattler and second-year player Jake Haener to back him up. The Saints have continued to keep their decision at backup quarterback private, but they’ll have to tip their hand on Sunday.
While the two very well could be close in the race for backup quarterback, it’s unlikely they’re completely even. Someone has the lead, and it will be revealed in this week’s season-opener with the Carolina Panthers. NFL rules require the team to declare a backup and determine who gets a radio headset. On top of that, the third quarterback must be identified so he can be active without counting against the gameday roster limit.
Dennis Allen has deemed the competition ongoing. Rattler and Haener were designated with the dreaded “or” on the unofficial depth chart. This only furthers the notion the Saints are undecided at that position. Whether it’s true indecision or another example of the Saints keeping information close to the vest, a choice needs to be made, if it hasn’t happened already.
Carr will suit up as the starting quarterback, but who will be his backup? If this was a few years ago, the Saints could have dressed both quarterbacks. Now, one will dress, and one will be an emergency quarterback.
Whether Rattler or Haener is behind Carr on Sunday will give us a little insight. There are other factors that go into that decision of who would start in case of an injury to Carr.
By the way Allen is talking, however, the quarterback who stands next to Carr will be the only indication we’ll get on who’s winning the battle between Rattler and Haener, at least for now. This subplot is far from over.
