The New Orleans Saints finally made their call at quarterback, but the reaction from fans says everything about where the mood is heading. On Tuesday, head coach Kellen Moore announced that Spencer Rattler will start Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals, beating out rookie Tyler Shough after a summer-long competition.
Saints Announce Spencer Rattler as Starter for 2025 Season
It’s a change of leadership for the Saints. The franchise had to let go of the reliable veteran presence under center after Derek Carr announced his retirement from football in May. Rattler, a second-year player who has previously had a trial by fire, was chosen by the Saints as a gamble on youth rather than pursuing another senior quarterback.
Last season, Rattler was thrust into action after Carr suffered injuries. In six games that he started, he compiled 1,317 throwing yards, four touchdowns, and five interceptions.
Spencer Rattler has been named the #Saints starting QB, Kellen Moore announced pic.twitter.com/AECr38PC2v
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) August 26, 2025
He showed off his mobility by running for 146 yards, and his toughness gained him respect in the locker room, but the numbers didn’t wow anyone. It’s obvious that Moore thinks Rattler gives the squad its greatest chance to remain competitive after completing another summer.
Social Media Reacts to Rattler Winning Starting Rights
However, many Saints supporters are not on board. After the announcement, social media was awash with reactions, including sarcasm, irritation, and the type of tired humor that only die-hard fans can create.
https://t.co/awvLE4tXxa pic.twitter.com/T8EYlfa5Nk
— David Miller (@millerfootball_) August 26, 2025
“And the tank for Arch begins. Road to the number 1 draft pick,” one fan joked, referencing Arch Manning, the prized quarterback prospect who feels more and more like a dream solution to the team’s struggles.
Others questioned the front office’s draft choices. “No one is surprised, could have used that 2nd round pick for something else though,” a user posted, pointing to Shough’s selection.
This has gotta be the best starting QB graphic for the worst starting QB ever made https://t.co/iHDOiDIMh8
— Zach Cohen (@ZachCohenFB) August 26, 2025
Some were quick to side with the rookie, with one comment reading, “Love Rattler, but Tyler Shough should’ve been the one in gold.”
And of course, the skeptic chimed in: “Shough in by Week 3.”
We bringing back the paper bags https://t.co/QFrY0HioNI pic.twitter.com/GmGlhc6PwA
— THE Ohiowhitesnake ™️ (@ohiowhitesnake) August 26, 2025
The choice serves as a reminder to a fan base desperate for stability of how difficult quarterback fights can be. As a rookie, Rattler didn’t exactly blow the league away, and Shough showed promise but hasn’t yet established himself. In the hopes that experience will triumph over promise, Moore is currently handing the keys to Rattler.
Fans are clearly preparing for a challenging season, with some already anticipating 2025 and the “tank for Arch” future. And that combination of humor, sadness, and hope is nothing new in New Orleans.
