It’s taken longer than maybe expected, but the New Orleans Saints are taking advantage of the NFL’s third quarterback loophole for the first time in 2023. Jake Haener is available to play in a pinch. He was listed with the emergency quarterback designation for Sunday’s game with the Carolina Panthers.
But it’ll have to be an emergency. Haener will be wearing his uniform and have his helmet in case he’s needed, unlike the other inactive players this week, but he can only get into the game if both Derek Carr and Jameis Winston are unable to play due to injuries. Carr is returning from a concussion with an injured rib and banged-up throwing shoulder. He’s had to exit three games this year with injuries and in each case Winston has has gotten the nod to lead the huddle.
And, just in case you missed it, Haener switched from his No. 14 jersey to the No. 3 worn after the preseason once Wil Lutz was traded to the Denver Broncos. The rookie fourth-round draft pick out of Fresno State has not appeared in a game for the Saints this season; in preseason, he completed 38 of 72 passes for 395 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions, taking two sacks.
So why now? Taysom Hill is inactive after suffering injuries to his foot and non-throwing hand a week ago, which means the Saints are down to just three quarterbacks, not four — satisfying the letter of the rule. It’s unlikely Haener will hit the field on Sunday at the Caesars Superdome, but he’ll be ready if the Saints need to call his number.
