Jake Haener Named Starting Quarterback for New Orleans Saints Against Washington Commanders

New Orleans Saints interim head coach Darren Rizzi has announced that Jake Haener will be the team’s starting quarterback for their upcoming game against the Washington Commanders on Sunday. This decision comes as the Saints deal with the absence of their primary quarterback, Derek Carr, who is expected to miss multiple weeks due to an oblique injury.

Haener and fellow backup quarterback Spencer Rattler had been competing for the starting role throughout the week. Despite Rattler’s potential, Rizzi has opted to go with Haener, marking the Saints’ third starting quarterback of the 2024 season.

This move is significant as the Saints look to adjust their strategy in the absence of Carr. Haener, who has been with the team, will now have the opportunity to lead the offense against the Commanders.

It’s worth noting that Haener has faced his own challenges, including a rare skin cancer diagnosis and a previous suspension for a drug policy violation. However, he has been preparing for this opportunity and will now be at the helm for the Saints.