New Orleans Saints @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Final Score: Jaguars 17, Saints 17
Writer: Steven Pintado – @coachstevenp on Twitter
The Jaguars jumped out to an early lead behind strong performances from both their first- and second-team offenses. The starters put together crisp opening drives, capped by a touchdown pass to Parker Washington. The second unit kept the momentum rolling, with rookie Bahyshul Tuten finding the end zone for his first career touchdown.
On the Saints’ side, the focus remained on their ongoing quarterback battle, and today, Spencer Rattler stole the spotlight. Rattler led three scoring drives that produced 14 points, ultimately helping New Orleans rally to finish the game in a tie. His chemistry with Mason Tipton was a difference-maker, as the two connected repeatedly and looked nearly unstoppable throughout the afternoon.
Three Up
- Spencer Rattler – As the battle continued for the Saints’ starting QB job, it was Rattler who had the better day on the field.
- Mason Tipton – Mason Tipton put on a show today with 100 yards as he looks to secure a roster spot on the Saints.
- Tank Bigsby – Bigsby got the start today and handled the running downs on the Jaguars’ 1st drive.
Three Down
- Tyler Shough – uneasy performance in this game with the 1st team offense.
- Kendre Miller – While he got the start, Miller didn’t do enough to prove he will be the RB2 behind Alvin Kamara.
- Cedrick Wilson Jr – The veteran played early in his game but didn’t make much of an impact to secure that roster spot.
New Orleans Saints
Quarterback
Tyler Shough: 9/12, 66 passing yards
Rookie quarterback Tyler Shough got the start for the Saints in Week 2, but it was a rough outing. He struggled with penalties, sacks, and poor throws in the first half, looking uneasy any time pressure came his way. Too often, plays broke down without him being able to extend or create. Most of his passes were short, five yards or less, often near the line of scrimmage. His best throw was a completion to tight end Treyton Wetch over the middle, though much of the credit went to the receiver for making the play. After a decent debut last week with the second-team offense, Shough faltered in his first run with the starters.
Spencer Rattler: 18/24, 199 passing yards, TD, INT | 3 carries, 19 yards
Second-year quarterback Spencer Rattler took over in the second half and, after a few shaky throws to open the third quarter, quickly found his rhythm. He showcased his arm talent by attacking downfield, hitting big plays that fueled the Saints’ comeback. Rattler delivered throws with velocity into tight windows and even flashed some mobility, adding a rushing element that Tyler Shough didn’t show in the first half. He wasn’t flawless–he missed on a would-be touchdown pass and threw an interception after locking onto his receiver, but overall, his performance stood out. Through two preseason games, Rattler holds a slight edge and looks like he should get the first shot at being the Saints’ Week 1 starter.
Running Back
Kendre Miller: 6 carries, 21 rushing yards
Kendre Miller drew the start in the Saints’ backfield and turned in a slightly uneven performance. Most of his carries went for short gains, though he did break multiple tackles on a 13-yard run that stood out as his best play. Another 10-yard gain was wiped out by penalty, limiting his production. Surprisingly, Miller wasn’t targeted in the passing game, despite his ability to make plays in space. Finishing with just 3.5 yards per carry, he didn’t do much to strengthen his case as Alvin Kamara’s primary backup.
Cam Akers: 2 carries, 2 rushing yards | 3 targets, 3 receptions, 11 yards
Cam Akers saw action throughout the game, starting as early as the second quarter with some quick dump-off receptions. While his stats weren’t eye-catching, he consistently showed effort to gain extra yardage after the catch. This wasn’t one of Akers’ stronger performances, and he is not locked for a spot on this team.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire: 4 carries, 12 rushing yards | 2 targets, 2 receptions, 16 yards
Former first-round running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire got the first carry to start the second half. His rushing production was modest, mostly consisting of short gains around three yards, though he did have one drive where he was heavily involved in the offense. Where he stood out was in the passing game — finding space after the catch and turning short throws into bigger gains. Despite flashes, Edwards-Helaire is likely on the outside looking in when it comes to making the Saints’ Week 1 roster.
Marcus Yarns: 2 carries, 4 rushing yards
Had a few carries in the fourth quarter of this game. Yarns doesn’t look likely to make this team.
Wide Receiver/Tight End
Chris Olave: 4 targets, 2 receptions, 12 receiving yards
Star receiver Chris Olave made his long-awaited return to game action for the Saints, though his first-quarter performance was uneven. Most of his targets came on short curls or screens, limiting his ability to showcase his full skill set. He did turn one screen into a first down, flashing his speed in space, but he also dropped a wide-open pass from Shough that should have been an easy catch. For Olave to thrive, the Saints will need to get him more opportunities downfield rather than relying on underneath routes.
Rashid Shaheed: 3 targets, 3 receptions, 15 receiving yards
Fellow starting receiver Rashid Shaheed also flashed his trademark speed in this game. Like Olave, most of his targets came on short curls and crossing routes, but he consistently created separation and made his catches look easy. The key for Shaheed has always been staying healthy, and this outing was an encouraging sign that he’s back to full speed and ready to be a reliable weapon in the Saints’ offense.
Treyton Wetch: 2 targets, 2 receptions, 30 receiving yards
Tight end Treyton Wetch is quietly making a name for himself through the Saints’ first two preseason games. His highlight came on one of the few quality passes from Tyler Shough, as Wetch hauled in a difficult catch while falling backward with a defender draped on him for a big gain. His only other target was a short sideline pass, but both came in the first half against stronger competition. If the Saints decide to carry four tight ends, Wetch’s early production could give him a realistic shot at sticking on the roster.
Cedrick Wilson Jr.: 2 targets, 1 reception, 8 receiving yards.
Veteran receiver Cedrick Wilson played throughout the game but made minimal impact. His first catch came early on a short curl route, while his second target in the third quarter resulted in an incomplete pass due to poor ball placement. Unlike last week, Wilson’s name wasn’t called often, and he failed to generate much momentum. He remains a roster-bubble player, fighting for one of the final wide receiver spots.
Mason Tipton: 8 targets, 6 receptions, 100 receiving yards
The standout of the Saints’ offense in Week 2 was second-year receiver Mason Tipton. After flashing in Week 1, he made an even stronger case for a roster spot this week. Tipton was Spencer Rattler’s go-to target, making plays both on short routes and deep shots. His highlight came on a 45-yard downfield catch, where he used speed and savvy hand movement to create separation. He also drew a defensive pass interference penalty, helping put the Saints in favorable field position. Tipton nearly capped the game with a touchdown, but Rattler’s overthrow kept it from happening. With this performance, Tipton looks firmly on track to make the 53-man roster.
Dante Pettis: 6 targets, 3 receptions, 57 receiving yards, TD
Veteran receiver Dante Pettis continued to see plenty of targets in Week 2 and made the most of his opportunities. He wasn’t targeted until the third quarter, but showed a mix of good and bad moments. He dropped a pass that could have turned into a big gain, but also made several receptions of 10-plus yards, displaying toughness and the ability to create separation. His highlight came on the game-tying touchdown, where he caught the ball, shook off a defender, and leaped into the end zone. Having been with the Saints last year, Pettis is once again vying for one of the final roster spots.
Michael Jacobson: 3 targets, 2 receptions, 12 receiving yards
Rookie tight end Michael Jacobson didn’t see any action until the third quarter, and his performance was uneven. He had a costly drop, and his receptions lacked impact, failing to stand out in a crowded tight end room. Jacobson will not make the final cut for the Saints.
Velus Jones Jr: 1 target, 1 reception, -2 receiving yards| 4 carries, 29 yards
Velus Jones Jr., typically a receiver, saw some snaps at running back and may have produced two of the best runs by any Saints back in this game. While he showed flashes of versatility, his chances of making the roster remain slim unless the coaching staff like his versatility.
Seth Green: 1 target, 1 reception, 6 receiving yards
Made a tough contested catch near the end of the game. Another player not likely to make the roster.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Quarterback
Trevor Lawrence: 8/10, 76 passing yards, TD, FUM | 1 carry
Jaguars franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence delivered another solid preseason performance. While he didn’t attempt many deep throws, relying mostly on short passes, he had plenty of time in the pocket to make decisions and extend drives.
The bad for Lawrence was that he did appear to stare down his receivers at times, and his lone fumble resulted from tripping on the snap rather than a defensive play. Overall, he looks poised to be an average starter for the 2025 season, and this outing was a fine showing. If new head coach Liam Coen can work the same magic he did with Baker Mayfield, there’s room for T-Law to grow this season.
Nick Mullens: 14/17, 112 passing yards, INT | 1 carry, 1 yard
Veteran quarterback Nick Mullens ran the Jaguars’ second-team offense for two quarters. He had a solid outing, making smart and safe throws while showing the ability to push the ball downfield, including a 26-yard gain to Hunter Long. Mullens displayed good pocket presence, avoiding sacks and making plays under pressure. His lone mistake was an interception, stemming from a misread on his part. Overall, Mullens reinforced why he remains a reliable backup quarterback for the Jaguars in 2025.
John Wolford: 3/7, 30 passing yards
John Wolford played the majority of the fourth quarter, but he struggled throughout his time on the field. His throws lacked accuracy, and he appeared rattled when facing pressure. The offense sputtered while he was under center, and his performance suggests he is unlikely to make the team’s final roster.
Seth Henigan: 1/3, 23 passing yards, INT
The rookie quarterbacks entered the game in the final 25 seconds. He had one decent throw down the middle of the field. His interception was due to a pop-up from his receiver rather than a regular pick. He isn’t likely to make the team.
Running Back
Travis Etienne Jr.: 3 carries, 24 rushing yards | 1 target, 1 reception, 1 yard
Unlike last week, Travis Etienne Jr. didn’t get the first carry for the Jaguars’ offense. Even without an early touch, he remained heavily involved on third downs, highlighting his value as a passing-down option. He took the lead on the second drive and displayed some impressive runs, including one where he didn’t get touched until about 10 yards past the line of scrimmage, showcasing his burst and speed through the hole. Etienne looks poised to be the Jaguars’ starting running back in Week 1.
Tank Bigsby: 2 carries, 6 rushing yards | 1 target, 1 reception, 19 receiving yards
Tank Bigsby got the first carry among the Jaguars’ backfield and served as the lead back on the opening drive. While his rushing attempts weren’t particularly impressive, he made a standout play in the receiving game, catching a short RB screen and turning it into a 19-yard gain by breaking tackles and making defenders miss. On third downs, Bigsby was noticeably absent in favor of Travis Etienne Jr. Overall, Bigsby looks set to hold a the 1B role in the Jaguars’ backfield with an opportunity for more.
Bhayshul Tuten: 10 carries, 35 rushing yards, TD |1 target, 1 reception, 6 yards
Fourth-round pick Bhayshul Tuten got his first touch on the Jaguars’ third drive when the second-team offense entered the game. He had plenty of opportunities but was largely unimpressive, with most carries going for short gains. Tuten displayed some toughness, but overall, it was a disappointing outing. One sequence in the red zone required three consecutive touches to gain nine yards and reach the end zone. Through two preseason games, Tuten has 16 carries for 59 yards. His role in the offense remains uncertain, but the Jaguars clearly want to get him reps and evaluate him on the field.
LeQuint Allen Jr.: 2 carries, 18 rushing yards | 5 targets, 4 receptions, 24 yards
The Jaguars’ other rookie running back, LeQuint Allen Jr., saw plenty of work in this game. He got his first touch on the team’s fourth drive, showing that he wasn’t limited to just second-half reps. Allen Jr. made an impact in the receiving game, displaying his athleticism by leaping over a defender on one play. After contributing in the passing game in back-to-back preseason games, he looks likely to make the roster, though his role as a rookie will probably be minimal.
Ja’Quinden Jackson: 5 carries, 9 rushing yards
Jackson didn’t get his first carry until the fourth quarter of this game. He didn’t make much of an impact on his five carries. He is not likely to make the team.
Wide Receiver/Tight End
Brian Thomas Jr.: 4 targets, 2 receptions, 8 receiving yards | 1 carry, 2 yards
The Jaguars’ young star receiver, Brian Thomas Jr., played the first two drives of the game. While he didn’t put up big stats, Trevor Lawrence looked his way frequently, targeting him four times. Most of these throws were short routes with little room to gain yards after the catch. He almost had a touchdown, but Lawrence would overthrow him in this game. Unfortunately, Thomas Jr. would have a drop in this game on a diving catch. It would have been nice to see at least one deep ball, but Thomas Jr. appears ready to contribute for Week 1.
Hunter Long: 2 targets, 2 receptions, 32 receiving yards
New addition Hunter Long saw action with the second-team offense in the second quarter, making both of his catches. One was an impressive, difficult reception along the sideline despite a defender falling on him, while the other was a short curl route. Long is still unproven as a tight end, but he flashed enough to be in the conversation for the Jaguars’ TE3 spot.
Brenton Strange: 2 targets, 2 receptions, 22 receiving yards
Starting tight end Brenton Strange played only the first two drives of the game. He showcased his skills with the ball in his hands, making two short catches and fighting for extra yards on each. Strange appears to be a reliable safety blanket for Trevor Lawrence over the middle of the field.
Trenton Irwin: 2 targets, 2 receptions, 21 receiving yards
Veteran Trenton Irwin played primarily in the second quarter with the Jaguars’ second-team offense. He made two solid catches, highlighted by a 14-yard reception where he found the soft spot in the zone. Irwin is competing for one of the final roster spots, and after back-to-back solid performances, he has strengthened his case to make the team.
Parker Washington: 2 targets, 2 receptions, 19 receiving yards, TD
Parker Washington primarily played with the Jaguars’ first-team offense. He made a solid 12-yard gain on a route over the middle and later scored a touchdown on a short curl, breaking a tackle to reach the end zone. Washington is shaping up to be the team’s slot receiver, complementing BTJ and Travis Hunter on the outside, the latter of whom missed Sunday’s game with a minor upper body injury.
Joshua Cephus: 3 targets, 2 receptions, 14 receiving yards | 1 carry, 1 yard
Joshua Cephus saw action in the second and third quarters. He ran a few solid routes that allowed him to create separation, though overall it was a mostly quiet outing. He is fighting for one of those final roster spots.
Austin Trammell: 4 targets, 4 receptions, 27 receiving yards
Austin Trammel saw some action in this game between the second and third quarters. All of his targets were short passes where he was able to get some separation. Unlikely to make the roster.
Dorian Singer: 2 targets, 1 reception, 8 receiving yards
Primarily a special team player, but had a WR screen where he showed off some speed, but got tripped up. Unlikely to make the roster.
Quintin Morris: 1 target, 1 reception, 23 receiving yards
Saw a target on the second-to-last play of the game. Morris made an impressive diving catch in the game. He’s still unlikely to make the roster.
Shawn Bowman: 2 targets, 1 reception, 10 receiving yards
Dropped his first target of the night in the third quarter of the game. He would later see a catch on a wild play that broke down and got behind the defenders. Unlikely to make the roster.
Patrick Herbert: 2 targets
Had two drops in this game, both in the fourth quarter. Unlikely to make the roster.
Chandler Brayboy: 2 targets
His first target was off target, and he was the reason the Saints got an interception on the last play of the game. Unlikely to make the roster.
Cam Camper: 1 target
Had a target in the fourth quarter. Unlikely to make the roster.