Tyler Shough ignites the Saints offense, but Spencer Rattler's talent offers strategic depth. Should New Orleans develop and hold, or trade him away?
The 2025 NFL season has delivered a narrative few in New Orleans saw coming. After a dismal 1–7 start under Spencer Rattler, the Saints appeared destined for a top-three draft pick and a complete structural overhaul. Enter Tyler Shough.
The rookie out of Louisville, a second-round pick whose selection was initially met with skepticism, has done more than just stabilize the ship—he has set it on fire. With a 5–3 record as a starter, consecutive 300-yard performances, and a legitimate claim to the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, Shough has effectively ended the "franchise quarterback" debate in the Big Easy.
But where does that leave Spencer Rattler? Do you trade him? Or hold him and develop?
The Shough Factor
It is impossible to discuss Rattler’s future without acknowledging the "Shough-sized" elephant in the room. Under Kellen Moore’s offense, Shough has displayed a level of poise and efficiency that Rattler struggled to find. Shough’s recent 333-yard, zero-interception gem against the Tennessee Titans solidified what many fans are now screaming: The Tyler Shough era has officially begun.
The Case for Keeping Rattler
While the temptation may be to ship Rattler off for a mid-round pick, the Saints should tread carefully. NFL history is littered with "flash-in-the-pan" rookies who regressed in their second year once defensive coordinators gathered enough tape.
High-End Insurance: Rattler is a 2024 fifth-round pick with undeniable arm talent.In a league where backup quarterbacks like Joe Flacco and Gardner Minshew have saved seasons, having a mobile, talented backup who already knows the system is a luxury the Saints shouldn't discard lightly.
Trade Value vs. Utility: Currently, Rattler’s trade value is at an all-time low following his 1–7 start. Selling now would be "selling the dip." By keeping him, the Saints allow him to continue developing under Moore, potentially boosting his value in the 2026 preseason.
The Path Forward: The "Taysom Hill" Lite Approach?
If the Saints want to maximize Rattler’s roster spot, they should stop looking at him as a traditional backup and start looking at him as an offensive weapon. He has his pros and cons.
Rattler has shown flashes of incredible escapability and play-making ability outside the pocket. While he lacks the "truck-stick" physicality of Taysom Hill, Moore could utilize Rattler in specific packages—perhaps in certain red-zone looks or "wildcat" variations that force defenses to account for a different type of speed than the more traditional, pocket-oriented Shough.
What To Expect: Develop And Hold
The New Orleans Saints have found their "Guy" in Tyler Shough. However, the NFL is a league of attrition. The smartest move for the front office is to resist the urge to move Rattler for pennies.
The Saints should embrace a "Develop and Hold" strategy. Let Rattler spend the 2026 offseason competing, refining his decision-making, and serving as the league's most talented "Plan B." If Shough is indeed the truth, Rattler becomes a valuable trade chip later. If Shough hits a sophomore slump, the Saints will be glad they didn't give away the house.