The New Orleans Saints have just as officially announced Spencer Rattler as their starting QB. He will be behind center when the Jets open the season against the Arizona Cardinals on September 7. This decision concluded a remarkable three-month competition for the post. Rattler shined, beating out rookie Tyler Shough and third-string QB Jake Haener. Rattler, a fifth-round selection out of South Carolina in this past 2024 NFL Draft, will make his way onto the field in his career seventh game. He’ll be on the field when the Saints host the Cardinals.
After an in-depth analysis of his practices throughout camp and exhibition games, Rattler was named the starting quarterback. His perseverance and commitment to excellence yielded great results. Saints head coach Kellen Moore on Rattler’s consistency and sound decision-making. He pointed to Rattler’s dual-threat ability as a key reason for his installation as the starter.
Spencer’s proved our starting quarterback, Tyler’s going to continue to develop, Moore stated. And right now, the head coach has all the faith in the world in Rattler to lead him. He’s going to do a tremendous job for us.” He thinks, “He’s earned this opportunity.
During the course of preseason, Rattler made his case as an extraordinary talent and prospect. He played three series with the first-team unit during a recent game, which helped solidify his position as the starter. The importance of this experience cannot be overstated, as it further proved his readiness to handle any challenges the regular season would present.
“I worked my tail off to achieve this and now it’s here. I’m just ready to work with the guys to get this season going.” – Spencer Rattler
Rattler’s path to winning the starting QB job has been arduous and full of competition. He faced some stiff competition from not only Shough but Haener. In the end, Haener was waived but signed to the practice squad. Rattler’s ability to work through this competition is a major testament to his resilience and determination.
Prior to coming to South Carolina, Rattler made a name for himself as a big-time playmaker. When throwing from the pocket, he’s one of the more precise passers you’ll find. That mobility only heightens his allure, making him the best fit for the Saints’ innovative offensive scheme. The additional qualities that impressed the team’s coaching staff most in their evaluations.
Shough acknowledged the competitive nature of the quarterback battle, stating, “I think everything is an evaluation, especially in this league. You never know what can happen.” His outlook is understandably shaped by the extreme competitiveness for a starting spot in the big leagues of football.
The Saints left it until the absolute final moment before officially granting their prospective 2025 starter the job. Now they’ve crossed that bridge and gone with Rattler. The organization’s surprising decision marks a new lease on life for Rattler. As for Rattler and the Saints, both sides are very hungry to make their mark this season.
Rattler’s performance against the Cardinals will be a great indicator as to how he starts off in this new role. Expectations should not be high on the young quarterback, who has been force-fed into the spotlight after an extensive evaluation period.
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