2024 Dynasty Rookie Profile: Spencer Rattler, QB

With the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine rapidly approaching, University of South Carolina quarterback Spencer Rattler is no stranger to the spotlight. From the highest highs to the lowest lows, he has been a debated subject the entire way. Let’s take a deep dive into the profile of the former Gamecock for dynasty fantasy football purposes.

Spencer Rattler (QB) South Carolina – Dynasty Rookie Profile

Height: 6’1

Weight: 218 lbs

Rattler was originally a standout 5-star prospect who signed with the University of Oklahoma under Lincoln Riley. He was the number one quarterback in the country ahead of guys like Bo Nix, Jayden Daniels, and Sam Howell. As predicted, Rattler would red-shirt behind Jalen Hurts in 2019.

The Sooners were excited for Rattler coming into 2020 as a starter. He instantly became a star throwing for over 3,000 yards and accounting for 34 touchdowns. His performance cemented himself as a prospect worthy of early draft hype. Additionally, he earned first-team AP All-Big12 honors and also won a Big 12 Championship beating Iowa State 27-21.

Heading into 2021, Rattler was considered an early candidate to be the number 1 overall pick and the favorite for the Heisman Trophy. Things did not go as planned as Rattler struggled on the field as well as off the field. Rattler was eventually benched for fellow 2024 draftee Caleb Williams. After the season, Rattler would decide to enter the transfer portal.

With Caleb Williams becoming a star, Rattler would transfer to the University of South Carolina. Ultimately, he would struggle his first season as a Gamecock. Notably, he had more turnover-worthy plays than big-time throws according to PFF. His 2023 season would prove to be a bounce-back year as he improved significantly with his accuracy and decision-making. He also earned Senior Bowl MVP with a strong performance at the Senior Bowl.

Strengths

Arm Talent

Rattler has been known for his arm talent since he was in high school. He pushes the ball downfield with ease. Furthermore, he can make throws to all levels of the field because of his arm strength. His quick release is an underrated part of his game. Additionally, he has shown he can throw from multiple arm angles accurately. His ability to throw on the run and stay in structure is a plus trait.

Ability to create

One of his best traits is the ability to get out of the pocket and create with his legs. His tape is littered with RPOs where he reads the defense and takes off with the ball for huge gains. He uses his legs to escape the pocket and buy himself time to make plays with his arm. Furthermore, he has a little bit of wiggle which is enough to make the first guy miss at times. Athletically, he is no Jayden Daniels but he can get out and do some damage on the ground.

Weaknesses

Inconsistent Decision Making

Rattler has very impressive throws on his tape. Additionally, he also has some really bad throws as well. At times he seems like he is trying to do too much and he throws some balls he really shouldn’t. Throws where he is throwing into double coverage, or throwing short into deep outs are plays that NFL corners will eat for breakfast. Also, there are a lot of throws where his guy was in single coverage but it was tight and he still threw it. Maybe he is just trusting his guys to make a play but he has to cut down on the turnover-worthy plays in the NFL.

Pocket Presence

Rattler’s pocket presence can be troublesome at times. On occasion, he will leave the pocket too early. On the flip side, he also has times when he stays in the pocket too long. This will need to improve in the NFL. Luckily for him, he does have a quick release which is maybe why he stays in the pocket too long at times. This is just another part of his inconsistent decision-making that he will need to work on.

NFL Fit and Draft Capital

Rattler will need to go to a team that has a veteran starter in place where he can sit and learn for a year. I think his decision-making right now is not good enough to be a day-one starter in the NFL. He certainly has all of the tools to succeed. However, he needs to go to a team like the Saints, Seahawks, Jets, etc. that can mold him into what his best version can be.

The evaluation of Rattler varies, however, right now he is my QB6 and I expect him to be taken in the late second to the early third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. That may seem rich to some people, but I think given his raw talent I don’t see him falling past that, especially after showing out at the Senior Bowl. I also think being humbled and improving as a leader is a big attraction for NFL teams. Everyone loves a good comeback story.

Dynasty Outlook

Depending on what kind of draft capital Rattler gets I would expect him to be a late-round two rookie pick in Superflex leagues. In standard leagues, it is probably wiser to use your late picks on running backs and receivers rather than a dart-throw quarterback. No matter the type of league, be aware that this is someone you will want to stash for a year if you do draft him.

Furthermore, Rattler projects as someone possible of being a starting quarterback in the NFL. His talent suggests a wide range of outcomes. If he can be coachable and learn like he has the last two seasons, there is no reason he can’t be a consistent QB2 for years. It also wouldn’t be surprising if he ends up as just a high-quality backup for his career. Overall, it just depends on his landing spot and how badly he wants it.

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