Saints Sign Fourth-Round Pick Jake Haener
The New Orleans Saints have reached a contract agreement with fourth-round draft pick Jake Haener, per the team’s official website. Earlier on Tuesday, the Saints signed first-round choice Bryan Bresee after reaching contract terms with Kendre Miller, Nick Saldiveri, Jordan Howden, and A.T. Perry last Friday. Second-round choice, DE Isaiah Foskey, is the only remaining unsigned pick.
New Orleans traded up to select Haener with the 127th overall selection out of Fresno State. He's the highest that the Saints have drafted a quarterback since selecting Garrett Grayson with a third-round choice in 2015.
After three quarterbacks were drafted in the first round, Haener was the second signal caller chosen in the final six rounds after Will Levis (second round) and Hendon Hooker (third). Five quarterbacks were drafted over the next 21 picks after Haener.
Haener started his collegiate career at Washington in 2017, but transferred after one year as a backup. After sitting out one year, he was Fresno State's starter during the Covid-shortened 2020 campaign and completed 64.7% of his throws for 2,021 yards with 14 touchdowns and 5 interceptions in six games.
Haener gained national attention in 2021 when he threw for 4,096 yards with 33 touchdowns and 9 interceptions for the Bulldogs with a completion percentage of 67.1%. He dealt with injuries in 2022, but still threw for 2,896 yards and 20 touchdowns with just 3 interceptions while completing 72% of his passes.
Fresno State Bulldogs quarterback Jake Haener (9) throws a pass against the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY
At 6-feet and 207-Lbs., Haener is a little small for the position by NFL standards. However, he's an extremely accurate thrower with excellent anticipation for receivers breaking open. He has outstanding mechanics and a quick release who beats defenses with terrific pre-snap reads and the patience to go through progressions.
Jake Haener is unlikely to see any significant action for the Saints in 2023. Newly signed Derek Carr will be the starter, with the experienced Jameis Winston as his backup. However, Haener has all the tools to grasp an NFL offense and perhaps push for a starting spot eventually.
