Jake Haener is getting a fresh start-and he’s landing in one of the best spots a young quarterback could ask for. The former New Orleans Saints signal-caller and 2024 fourth-round pick is headed to Kansas City, where he’ll join the Chiefs’ practice squad and begin working under the watchful eye of Andy Reid. For a 26-year-old still trying to carve out a long-term NFL role, this is the kind of opportunity that could change everything.
Haener, a Fresno State product, was originally drafted by the Saints during Dennis Allen’s tenure, brought in with the idea that he could develop behind another Bulldog-turned-pro, Derek Carr. He came into the league with a reputation for being a cerebral quarterback-high football IQ, good decision-making, and the kind of poise you want in a backup. But while the mental tools were there, the on-field reps were limited, and that made it tough for him to climb the depth chart.
Things got even more complicated in New Orleans when the Saints added rookies Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough to the quarterback room. Suddenly, Haener was the odd man out-pushed off the active roster and, eventually, off the practice squad when his contract expired in January.
That’s when Kansas City came calling.
Now, Haener steps into a quarterback-friendly environment unlike almost any other in the league. He’ll be learning from Patrick Mahomes-a three-time Super Bowl champion and arguably the best quarterback in football-and working in a system designed by Andy Reid, who has made a career out of developing QBs and maximizing their strengths. It’s not just a good fit; it’s an ideal one for a player in Haener’s position.
Make no mistake, this is still a long road. The Chiefs are set at the top with Mahomes, and any backup job in Kansas City is going to be earned, not handed out.
But for Haener, this is about growth. It’s about soaking in the knowledge, sharpening his game behind the scenes, and showing enough promise to stick around in a league where backup quarterbacks have never been more valuable.
Whether he eventually cracks the 53-man roster or remains a developmental piece, Haener’s move to Kansas City gives him a shot at something every young quarterback wants: time to learn, room to improve, and the chance to prove he belongs.