Surprising choice? Saints choose second-year quarterback as backup instead of rookie phenom

Jake Haener is the backup quarterback to start the regular season, at least according to the Week 1 inactive list. Haener worked behind Derek Carr in pregame warmups while rookie Spencer Rattler watched.

Dennis Allen remained tight-lipped about his decision and would not name a replacement player during the week. The Saints even went so far as to put “or” on the rankings for Haener and Rattler. Rattler will be in uniform for Sunday's game against the Panthers and has been designated as the team's third emergency quarterback.

The battle during training camp was entertaining to say the least, as it was very close between the two quarterbacks. Social media erupted in hysteria after Rattler put on some really entertaining performances in the preseason. Allen has said the team will continue to develop both quarterbacks this season, and the future could look extremely bright for New Orleans. Until then, however, Derek Carr is at the helm.