Spencer Michael Rattler, born on September 28, 2000, is an American quarterback. He initially played college football for Oklahoma and later transferred to South Carolina in 2022. Rattler participated in the 2024 Senior Bowl and has announced his entry into the 2024 NFL Draft.
In his freshman year (2019) at Oklahoma, Spencer Rattler had limited playtime with 81 passing yards in three games. However, he excelled in 2020, starting 11 games, achieving 3,031 passing yards, and 28 TDs, earning him the national Freshman of the Year title.
Facing challenges in 2021, Rattler was benched after turnovers but still managed 1,483 passing yards and 11 TDs. Seeking a fresh start, he transferred to South Carolina in 2022, becoming the starting quarterback with 2,791 yards, 16 TDs, and a 91.9 QB rating in 12 games.
In 2023, his fifth year, Rattler posted improved numbers at South Carolina, recording 3,183 yards, 19 TDs, and 8 interceptions.
In discussions for the 2024 NFL Draft, Rattler’s raw talent suggests a first-round pick, but gameplay inconsistencies present a challenge. Despite hopes for improvement in 2023, he fell short of the standout form from his 2020 season with Oklahoma.
Spencer Rattler’s collegiate journey has been marked by highs and lows. Despite his elite arm strength, drawing comparisons to Mahomes, on-field decision-making raises questions about his NFL readiness. In comparison with quarterbacks like Caleb Williams, who boasts a more impressive college career with numerous individual accolades, Spencer Rattler, despite winning two Big 12 championships, is gaining attention for his 2024 Senior Bowl MVP performance, anticipating a rise in his draft stock.
Pros
- Experienced QB: 1,300+ passes in four years
- Strong arm: Consensus five-star prospect
- Mobile and adept at on-the-move throws
- Skilled pocket passer with pressure awareness
- Precise ball placement and improvisation instincts
- Versatile athlete with rapid release and varied arm angles
- Excellent balance and anticipation on short to intermediate throws
- Notable arm talent in off-balance situations and on the move
Cons
- Undersized for ideal QB standards at 6-1, 215 pounds.
- Struggles with pocket composure under pressure and often throws off back foot.
- Mechanical inconsistencies observed in 2021 affecting footwork and release.
- Questions about decision-making and football IQ for the professional level.
- Field vision concerns, the tendency to lock onto primary targets.
- Performance declined since 2020, and 2023 is seen as the ceiling by some scouts.
