In a significant development, the New Orleans Saints and quarterback Spencer Rattler have mutually agreed to terminate his player contract. This decision comes less than a year after Rattler was drafted by the Saints in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Background on Spencer Rattler’s Tenure with the Saints
Spencer Rattler, born on September 28, 2000, in Phoenix, Arizona, had a notable college career before entering the NFL. He began at the University of Oklahoma, earning first-team All-Big 12 honors in 2020, and later transferred to the University of South Carolina for his final two seasons. During his collegiate career, Rattler completed 900 of 1,313 passes (68.5%) for 10,807 yards, with 77 touchdowns and 32 interceptions. citeturn0search12
The Saints selected Rattler with the 150th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, aiming to bolster their quarterback depth and foster competition. He signed a four-year contract worth $4,356,480, which included a $336,480 signing bonus and an average annual salary of $1,089,120. citeturn0search0
Performance and Challenges in the 2024 Season
Rattler’s rookie season presented both opportunities and challenges. He appeared in seven games, starting six, due to injuries sustained by starting quarterback Derek Carr. During these appearances, Rattler completed 130 of 228 passes (57.0%) for 1,317 yards, recording four touchdowns against five interceptions, resulting in a passer rating of 70.4. citeturn0search11
Despite flashes of potential, Rattler’s performance was marked by inconsistency. Analysts noted his erratic play, which contributed to the team’s offensive struggles during his tenure as the starter. citeturn0search9
Organizational Dynamics and Coaching Changes
The 2024 season was tumultuous for the Saints beyond the quarterback position. The team parted ways with head coach Dennis Allen in November, leading to a search for new leadership. Reports indicated that Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore emerged as a favorite for the head coaching position. Moore’s potential hiring suggested a shift in offensive philosophy, which may have influenced the decision regarding Rattler’s future with the team. citeturn0search2
Financial Implications of the Contract Termination
Terminating Rattler’s contract has notable financial ramifications for both parties. For the Saints, releasing Rattler before June 1, 2025, results in a dead cap hit of $252,360 for the 2025 season but provides a salary cap savings of $791,760. citeturn0search0
From Rattler’s perspective, the termination means forfeiting the remaining non-guaranteed portions of his contract. While he received his signing bonus and base salary for the 2024 season, totaling $1,131,480, he will not collect the projected earnings for the subsequent years of the contract. citeturn0search0
Future Outlook for Spencer Rattler and the Saints
For Rattler, entering free agency offers an opportunity to seek a fresh start with another NFL team. His collegiate accolades and experience, albeit limited, in the professional arena may attract teams in need of quarterback depth or developmental prospects.
The Saints, on the other hand, face decisions regarding their quarterback lineup. With Derek Carr’s performance under scrutiny and his substantial contract impacting the team’s salary cap, the organization must evaluate its options. Carr is entering the third year of a four-year, $150 million contract, accounting for $50 million against the cap in 2025. Releasing him would result in a significant dead cap hit but could offer long-term financial flexibility. citeturn0search5
Additionally, the Saints may explore the development of other quarterbacks on their roster or consider prospects in the upcoming NFL Draft. The potential hiring of a new head coach with a distinct offensive strategy further underscores the importance of aligning the quarterback position with the team’s evolving direction.
Conclusion
The mutual decision to terminate Spencer Rattler’s contract reflects a pivotal moment for both the player and the New Orleans Saints. As Rattler seeks new opportunities in his professional career, the Saints are poised to reassess and potentially restructure their quarterback situation in alignment with organizational changes and future aspirations.
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