Jake Haener’s time with the New Orleans Saints appears to be coming to a close, and while that might not come as a shock, it still marks a notable chapter ending for the former fourth-round pick.
Haener, who joined the Saints in 2023, showed promise early on-particularly in offseason workouts and training camp settings. Coaches and teammates consistently praised his preparation, football IQ, and command of the playbook.
When Derek Carr went down with injuries last season, Haener got his chance to step into live action. But as is often the case with young quarterbacks, the transition from practice field rhythm to live-game execution proved to be a steep climb.
In limited action, Haener completed just 46.2% of his passes for 226 yards, tossing one touchdown and one interception. The numbers reflect a player who struggled to find his footing when it mattered most, despite showing flashes behind the scenes. It’s not uncommon-practice reps can look crisp, but the speed and complexity of real NFL defenses can rattle even the most prepared young QBs.
Now, according to reports, Haener is not expected to return to the Saints in 2026. That decision makes sense, especially when you consider the team has used recent draft capital on quarterbacks like Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough. The writing was likely on the wall, and the Saints are clearly reshuffling their quarterback room with an eye toward the future.
Still, Haener’s story in the NFL might not be over just yet. He’s currently without a contract, but his reputation as a smart, hard-working quarterback could land him another opportunity-particularly with teams in need of a reliable backup. The Minnesota Vikings, Las Vegas Raiders, and Philadelphia Eagles are among the franchises that could be in the market for depth at the position heading into 2026.
Even if his playing days are winding down, there’s a sense around the league that Haener’s football journey could take a new direction. His understanding of the game and preparation habits have drawn comparisons to players like Kellen Moore, who transitioned quickly into coaching after his playing career.
That kind of move wouldn’t be surprising for Haener. He may not have the arm talent or on-field results to be a long-term starter, but his football mind has earned respect in NFL circles.
Whether he finds another roster spot or shifts into a headset and clipboard, Haener’s passion for the game is clear. His time in New Orleans didn’t produce breakout moments, but it did show glimpses of a player who knows the game inside and out. That kind of knowledge doesn’t always lead to touchdowns-but it often leads to a second act in football.