A New Chapter for Rattler: The Former High School Star Looks to Prove Himself in the NFL Draft
Spencer Rattler, a quarterback, took a unique turn that has become rare in college football history.
The former five-star prospect started his career at Oklahoma, where he had a strong rookie season before being benched in favor of Caleb Williams during his second full season and never seeing a Sooners start. Rattler transferred to South Carolina and played an inconsistent two seasons as its starting quarterback, while Williams would shortly accompany head coach Lincoln Riley to USC.
Now, it’s a guessing game as to where Rattler will land in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Rattler gave presenter RJ Young an explanation on the most recent episode of “The No. 1 collegiate Football Show with RJ Young” as to why his difficult collegiate career could benefit him going forward.
“[I] got a lot of experience, been in two big-time conferences. Been in three different offenses. Knowledgeable about the game, elite competitor, elite passer,” Rattler said. “I feel like I’m a fast processor, can get the reads quick. Quick learner, can go through multiple different offenses, and I feel like I’m a guy that gives his all when he’s on the field. Obviously, great leader, just give my all, and I want to make guys around me better.”
Rattler is an intriguing addition to Riley’s QB tree at Oklahoma, where he saw Heisman Trophy winners Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray chosen first overall in the NFL Draft, and Jalen Hurts come back from transfer from Alabama to become a standout quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. Then there is Williams, who was Riley’s teammate at USC when he won the Heisman Trophy, and who the Chicago Bears anticipate selecting at the top of the 2024 draft later this month.
Rattler completed 67.5% of his throws and passed for 3,031 yards and 28 touchdowns in his only full season as the Sooners’ starter (2020). He also had a passer rating of 172.6. In addition, Rattler scored six touchdowns on the ground while leading the Sooners to a 9-2 victory and the Big 12 Championship. Rattler, who had spent his first two years in Norman as Oklahoma’s tight ends coach and associate head coach, found a welcoming home in South Carolina with head coach Shane Beamer after being benched and Riley leaving.
Spencer Rattler joins the show to talk CFB Journey & NFL Draft
Rattler led the Gamecocks to 13-12 results the previous two seasons while averaging 3,106 passing yards, 18.5 passing touchdowns, 3.5 rushing touchdowns, 10 interceptions, 143.2 passer rating, and 67.5% completion percentage. The 23-year-old Rattler is now expected to be selected in the top 10 of the draft, joining a talented group of quarterbacks that includes Jayden Daniels, Williams, Drake Maye, and J.J. McCarthy. Rattler is anticipated to be selected at some point on Day 2, and Michael Penix and Bo Nix may also be chosen in the first round.
“You gotta just keep pushing,” he said. “Not everything’s going to be given. Not everything’s going to be easy, but I always kept that confidence. I believe I’m one of the top guys in this quarterback class. Everybody’s opinion, you respect it, but you gotta know your worth and just keep working. Control what you can.”
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