New Orleans’ quarterback derby is nearing a verdict, with Kellen Moore signaling that a Week 1 starter will be announced “at some point next week” after the preseason clash. Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough both flashed enough to keep the competition tight, and the decision will hinge on film study and discussions with players first. The outcome will shape the Saints’ ceiling for 2025 and set the stage for fantasy decisions around Rashid Shaheed and Cedrick Wilson Jr.

In the latest test, Shough went 36-of-53 for 333 yards with a TD, an INT, and five sacks; Rattler went 30-of-43 for 295 yards with a TD, an INT, and a fumble, also under five sacks. Moore praised both, noting Rattler’s improved ball security and Shough’s high football IQ and resiliency after a strip-sack, including a later, sharp TD drive. The choice is hard, and either quarterback could lift or derail the 2025 hopes.

Devin Neal showed heady, two-way potential in the Saints’ preseason finale, flashing protection, route-running, and smart decision-making on a late drive that moved the chains and opened red-zone opportunities. He wasn’t a yardage monster, but his game sense and willingness to contribute on special teams stood out as the kind of small data point that matters for a sixth-round rookie chasing a roster spot.

Saints coach Kellen Moore praised Neal as smart and heady, hinting at a path to regular-season exposure through special-teams value and situational offense. Tyler Shough’s late-quarter sequence underscores a developing offensive chemistry, while Kamara and Miller loom large; Neal’s best chance may hinge on continued special-teams impact and clean, versatile play when called upon.

In dynasty and stash leagues, Neal remains an intriguing sleeper. The debut signals more than a single highlight; it signals a legit, multi-dimensional depth piece who could rise if he sustains special-teams duty and translates brains into on-field results as the Saints balance veteran backs with a talented rookie on the rise.

Tyler Shough makes a bold Week 1 case for the Saints, insisting he is ready to lead Arizona’s opener if given the chance. After finishing the preseason with 36 of 53 passes for 333 yards, a TD and an INT while adding a rushing score, he highlights tape growth and better operation in Moore’s system. His chief challenger, Spencer Rattler, posted similar TD/INT/fumble counts and more rushing yards, while Jake Haener remains in the mix. The test in Week 1 will prove coaching trust and Shough’s ceiling in a high-stakes offense.

The competition remains real and tactical, with Shough acknowledging the team-wide improvement and the desire for starters reps. Arizona presents a stern Week 1 hurdle, while the Saints’ offense, guided by Kellen Moore, could unlock fantasy upside if Shough starts and leverages downfield elements and mobility to extend drives and create scoring chances for receivers.