In a surprising twist, the New Orleans Saints are turning to rookie sensation Spencer Rattler as their starting quarterback for this Sunday’s showdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, head coach Dennis Allen announced Wednesday. With Derek Carr sidelined due to an oblique injury he sustained during Monday night’s 26-13 defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs, the stage is set for Rattler’s grand entrance into the NFL spotlight.
Drafted in the fifth round this past April, Rattler is set to make his NFL debut—a moment not only eagerly anticipated by Saints fans but also a pivotal point in his burgeoning career. The decision to start Rattler comes after considerable deliberation, bypassing alternative Jake Haener, who admirably stepped in for Carr during the Chiefs game.
"We’ve deliberated intensely as a team on what strategy gives us the best chance of success," Coach Allen shared with palpable excitement. "Handing Rattler the reins felt like the right choice, and we’re genuinely thrilled to watch him in action. It’s his time to shine, and we support him all the way."
Rattler, at just 24 years old, boasts a collegiate career filled with impressive stats, having amassed a staggering 10,807 yards, 77 touchdowns, and 32 interceptions during his tenure at Oklahoma and South Carolina. Meanwhile, Haener, a fourth-round selection in the 2023 draft, has accumulated notable college credentials himself, with 9,120 yards, 68 touchdowns, and 18 interceptions between his time at Washington and Fresno State.
Although he saw action in three contests, including the loss to Kansas City, Haener completed a modest 2-of-8 passes for 17 yards. Still, the Saints’ confidence in Rattler underscores their commitment to exploring fresh and dynamic quarterback options amidst this challenging stretch.
Passion and anticipation are running high as the Saints prepare to unleash their rookie marvel, Spencer Rattler, to lead them onto the gridiron come Sunday. With this bold maneuver, New Orleans is not just filling a gap left by Carr but igniting potential greatness in an exciting, action-packed NFL season.
