Six quarterbacks were selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, with former South Carolina Gamecocks signal caller Spencer Rattler having to wait until the fifth round to learn his NFL fate. The New Orleans Saints used the 150th overall pick on Rattler on Saturday, sparking some controversy over his draft position.
Rattler's former coach, Shane Beamer, expressed disappointment at how far the quarterback fell in the draft, attributing it to unfavorable scouting reports and pre-draft narratives. Beamer highlighted Rattler's leadership skills and described him as a 'great player,' emphasizing his ability to handle adversity and earn the respect of his teammates.
Despite some projections placing Rattler in the second or third round, he expressed gratitude for being selected by the Saints, stating that he viewed it as a blessing to be picked at any point in the draft. Rattler's college career spanned from Oklahoma to South Carolina, where he amassed impressive passing yards and touchdowns.
However, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that Rattler's appearance on a reality show during high school may have negatively impacted his draft stock. His participation in Netflix's docuseries 'QB1: Beyond the Lights' raised concerns among some teams, who found it challenging to separate the image from his on-field performance.
Despite the mixed reactions surrounding his draft position, Rattler remains optimistic about his future in the NFL, acknowledging the support he received from both his college teams and the Saints. As he embarks on this new chapter in his football career, Rattler's journey from college standout to NFL prospect serves as a testament to perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges.
