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Saints Bench Most Starters as Rams Game Becomes Backup Audition

Saints coach Kellen Moore handed game reps to second- and third-string players, with joint practices serving as the primary evaluation for roster decisions.

Overview

  • Saints coach Kellen Moore confirmed Friday that most starters will not play Saturday and that recent game-speed joint practices provided the main look at first-team players.
  • New Orleans has not named a QB2 and will use the preseason matchup to evaluate Spencer Rattler and Zach Wilson for the backup spot behind Tyler Shough.
  • The Rams expect Saturday to be a decisive audition for fringe players and backups, with running back Jarquez Hunter and linemen Beaux Limmer among those who need strong showings to improve their roster chances.
  • Los Angeles will continue using pocket movement to test backup quarterbacks Stetson Bennett and Ty Simpson and to create clearer downfield passing reps.
  • Coaches from both teams said the Tuesday-to-Thursday joint-practice stretch was physically taxing, a factor that could affect availability and make special-teams consistency — including punter Ethan Evans’s rebound — more important for final cut decisions.