2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Spencer Rattler

Prospect Summary:

After players like Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray were superstars at Oklahoma, Rattler was expected to carry on the tradition. As a redshirt freshman starter in 2020, Rattler completed 68 percent of his passes for 3,031 yards, 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He also ran for six scores. After that strong debut, the wheels came off for Rattler in 2021 and he ended up getting benched for Caleb Williams. Rattler then transferred to South Carolina after the season. In 2022, Rattler had a slow start with the Gamecocks, but he improved down the stretch. Rattler completed 66 percent of his passes that season for 3,026 yards, 18 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He also rushed for three touchdowns. Rattler then completed 69 percent of his passes in 2023 for 3,186 yards, 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions. After the season, Rattler performed well at both the Senior Bowl and the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine.

For the next level, Rattler has the skill set to be a starting quarterback. He has a powerful arm capable of making all the throws and some deep-ball accuracy. Rattler shows a live arm with easy strength to push the ball downfield. He has the ability to fire strikes in the short to intermediate part of the field with good ball placement to lead his receivers for more yards. There is no doubt that Rattler can really spin it, as the velocity of his throws can fit the ball into tight windows. In the pocket, Rattler shows the ability to work off his primary read and does not panic when his first read is covered. Rattler’s timing, anticipation, accuracy, and field vision are sufficiently developed that he can be an effective pocket passer. Rattler is a natural passer who can put air underneath his ball and loft in beautiful touch passes downfield. When needed, he can rifle a laser past defenders into tight windows.

Rattler also offers mobility and athleticism. He is a dangerous runner with excellent feet and agility to dodge pass rushers in the pocket. Thanks to those qualities, Rattler is able to extend plays, plus he has the arm strength to make big off-platform throws. He has a backyard-baller style of play that brings energy to his team.

Like all players going into the NFL, there aspects for Rattler to work on. The biggest issues for him are ball security and turnovers. If Rattler had good decision-making, he would be a first-round pick based on his arm talent and skill set. However in college, he threw too many interceptions and did not demonstrate good ball security. A a pro, Rattler must improve his decision-making in order to be a starting quarterback.

In the 2024 NFL Draft, Rattler looks like a potential day-two pick. He has starting ability if he lands with good coaching and improves his play.