Spencer Rattler will be the starting quarterback when the Saints open the preseason on Sunday against the Chargers.
Saints head coach Kellen Moore said Rattler will get the start, second-round rookie Tyler Shough will go next, and Jake Haener will play third.
“We’ll start Spencer in the game, and then from there we’ll go Tyler, and then Jake,” Moore said.
Moore said this doesn’t necessarily mean Rattler is in the lead to be the regular-season starter, but that Rattler’s performance in training camp justifies giving him the first preseason start.
“He’s earned his way as he’s gone through this,” Moore said.
None of the quarterbacks will be playing with the full first-string offense, as Moore said he plans to hold out several starters on both sides of the ball. And Moore said the preseason doesn’t outweigh training camp as he evaluates his quarterback.
“It will be a great evaluation piece for us. By no means is it any bigger than the collection of all these practices that have occurred,” Moore said.
Rattler, who started six games for the Saints last season, said he’s eager to show what he can do.
“Super excited, awesome opportunity. Excited to get out there with the guys,” Rattler said. “Excited to get to start the game.”
The Saints’ depth chart lists Rattler, Shough and Haener as co-starters at quarterback.