Jake Haener: Everything you need to know

The Chiefs signed Haener to a reserve/future contract Monday, Matthew Paras of The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports. Haener didn't take a single snap during the 2025 season while serving as the QB3 behind Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler (finger). Haener -- the Saints' fourth-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft -- appeared in eight games (one start) in 2024, when he completed 18 of 39 pass attempts for 226 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Now in Kansas City, Haener will have the opportunity to earn the backup QB role behind Patrick Mahomes (knee).

Haener reverted to the Saints' practice squad Monday, per the NFL's transaction log. Haener was elevated to the Saints' active roster Saturday and ended up serving as Tyler Shough's backup for Sunday's regular-season finale against the Falcons due to the absence of Spencer Rattler (finger). Haener didn't end up playing a single snap during Sunday's loss and did not appear in a regular-season game in 2025. He was selected by the Saints in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, but his role with New Orleans in 2026 isn't clear given Shough's strong play to end the regular season and Rattler's place on the team.

The Saints elevated Haener from the practice squad to the active roster Saturday ahead of Sunday's game against the Falcons, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports. Haener has spent most of the season on the Saints' practice squad. Due to backup quarterback Spencer Rattler (finger) being listed as questionable for Sunday's game, Haener will likely be the replacement if needed. The 26-year-old would be set to back up rookie Tyler Shough if Rattler ends up being inactive for Week 18.