Who Should I Start? Brett Rypien or Jake Haener

Thursday, August 29, 1:14 PM

The Minnesota Vikings signed veteran quarterback Brett Rypien on Thursday and waived Jaren Hall in a corresponding move. It's a mild surprise after Hall seemingly cemented the job as the QB3 behind starter Sam Darnold and backup Nick Mullens with a strong preseason. The 28-year-old Rypien was released earlier this week by the Chicago Bears. He spent the first four seasons of his career with the Denver Broncos, starting three games, before moving to the Los Angeles Rams last year. The Vikings were hit with tough news earlier in training camp with rookie first-rounder J.J. McCarthy (knee) having to miss all of his rookie season. In his four years in the NFL, Rypien has completed 58.3% of his 168 pass attempts for just 950 yards, four touchdowns and nine interceptions in 10 games (four starts).

Sunday, July 27, 9:22 AM

New Orleans Saints quarterback Jake Haener reportedly has a real shot at winning the starting gig to begin the regular season. Haener has looked good during training camp and is reportedly making this a real three-man race. Spencer Rattler and rookie Tyler Shough are probably above him on the depth chart, but the Saints aren't counting Haener out. Last season, Haener made one start for the Saints during their Week 15 matchup against the Washington Commanders. He completed 4-of-10 passing attempts for 49 yards and one interception before getting benched at halftime in favor of Rattler. Despite that, the Saints aren't holding that outing against him and are giving Haener a fair chance at the starting gig. This is clearly going to be a rebuild in New Orleans, so Shough seems like the favor to start. However, Haener and Rattler are going to get real opportunities during camp and the preseason.