Who Should I Start? Spencer Rattler or Cameron Ward

Sunday, January 4, 11:57 AM

New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler (right finger) is officially inactive for Sunday's Week 18 contest against the Atlanta Falcons. He had been listed as questionable but was trending in the wrong direction after missing all three practices this past week. The 25-year-old has been operating as the backup quarterback behind Tyler Shough ever since Week 9. As a result, Shough remains the starter for Sunday's regular-season finale while Jake Haener steps into the backup role. Haener hasn't played an offensive snap this year, but he did complete 18 of 39 pass attempts for 226 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in 2024. Haener and Taysom Hill would be candidates to earn quarterback snaps if Shough leaves the game for any reason.

Monday, January 5, 12:34 PM

Tennessee Titans rookie quarterback Cameron Ward (shoulder) suffered an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder in Sunday's loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the Week 18 regular-season finale, but he will not require surgery, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. It's the best-case scenario for the young QB heading into the offseason. Ward suffered the injury while diving for a touchdown in the first quarter of Sunday's game, and he never returned. The 23-year-old former first overall pick will be rehabbing for a few months, but barring a setback, he should be recovered well before the start of training camp and the preseason. The Miami product started for the Titans all season in his first year in the NFL and predictably struggled, completing 59.8% of his pass attempts for 3,169 yards, 15 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. He added 39 rushing attempts for 159 yards and two TDs. Ward could be up and down again in Year 2 as he continues to develop, especially since he'll be learning a new offense under a new head coach.