South Carolina quarterback Spencer Rattler was a massive winner at last week’s Senior Bowl. Arguably the most consistently effective quarterback in attendance, Rattler undeniably improved his pre-draft stock in Mobile. Rattler showcased himself to be among the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.
This past season, Rattler threw for a career-high 3,186 yards and 19 touchdowns. The Phoenix, Arizona native added four rushing touchdowns to his totals, proving he’s a plus-athlete that extends the pocket when protection breaks down. Teams searching for quarterback value in the middle rounds will earmark Rattler. With that in mind, we’ve identified three ideal team fits for Rattler.
NEW YORK GIANTS
I don't believe the Giants are targeting a quarterback with the No. 6 overall selection. Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye are unlikely to be available by then anyhow. General manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll have far too much invested in Daniel Jones to admit defeat this quickly.
Jones failed to meet expectations this past season after signing a four-year, $160 million extension. Injuries and inconsistent play derailed his 2023 campaign. Jones will enter the 2024 season as the unquestioned starter, but he's unlikely to remain in that role if things go haywire again. If Schoen and Daboll want to prepare for that possibility, they should draft a mid-round quarterback with the potential to develop into a starter. Rattler checks that box.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
New Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald has inherited a roster that's built to win now. Aging starting quarterback Geno Smith is entering the second season of a three-year extension. If Smith remains an effective starter, he'll likely play out the entire duration of the contract, which concludes at the end of 2025.
Finding a succession plan is crucial to maintaining Seattle's competitive window. With D.K. Metcalf, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Kenneth Walker III on the roster for the foreseeable future, that supporting cast could help a young quarterback hit the ground running. Backup quarterback Drew Lock is an unrestricted free agent and will likely search for more opportunities elsewhere. Seattle should take a chance on a quarterback like Rattler who could succeed Smith.
NEW YORK JETS
The Jets are expected to part ways with first-round bust Zach Wilson this offseason. Wilson and the Jets' coaching staff have a tumultuous relationship and the expectation is that general manager Joe Douglas will trade or release Wilson this offseason.
Douglas will then shift his attention to surrounding Aaron Rodgers with a roster that's capable of competing for a Super Bowl in 2024. Douglas will focus on acquiring talented veterans and rookies who can contribute immediately. With the window to win a Lombardi shrinking by the day, the Jets aren't overly worried about 2025 and beyond.
Douglas should spend a mid-round resource on preparing for post-Rodgers life. Drafting a quarterback like Rattler won't take away from the Jets' ability to improve immediately. Wilson must be replaced with a young signal-caller like Rattler.
