The New Orleans Saints have announced that rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler will start against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, as confirmed by coach Dennis Allen on Wednesday. Rattler steps in for the injured Derek Carr, who sustained an oblique strain during the game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday night. Allen noted that Carr’s return will be evaluated on a weekly basis, and assured that Carr will regain his starting role once he is healthy.
Allen mentioned Carr’s disappointment over not being able to play, highlighting the quarterback’s history of being durable and his frustration with the current situation.
The Saints have a busy schedule ahead, with two games set within five days: the matchup against Tampa Bay on Sunday and another game against the Denver Broncos on October 17 for “Thursday Night Football.”
Rattler, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2024 draft out of South Carolina, earned the starting position over second-year quarterback Jake Haener. While Allen refrained from detailing the decision-making process, he expressed confidence that Rattler will give the team the best chance to win in this particular game.
The Saints’ offensive line has faced significant changes due to injuries, affecting their starting center and right guard. Against the Chiefs, Connor McGovern was brought in from the Jets’ practice squad to play center, while Landon Young was shifted from tackle to guard.
When asked if the offensive line’s situation influenced the choice to start Rattler, Allen acknowledged that Rattler’s mobility played a role. He expressed optimism about Rattler’s previous experiences at Oklahoma and South Carolina, suggesting that these have prepared him for this moment, despite his lack of NFL game time.
Rattler has been listed as the team’s emergency third quarterback throughout the first five games of the season, with Haener stepping in for Carr during previous matches. Allen explained that the decision to name Rattler as the starter was a recent development, emphasizing that they had been internally discussing their options once Carr’s potential absence came into consideration.
He reiterated the team’s patient approach towards Rattler, recognizing the challenges of starting a rookie quarterback but encouraging him to play freely and enjoy the opportunity. Allen stated that Rattler will be fully prepared, with the focus on facilitating his success rather than imposing undue pressure.
In the preseason, Rattler completed 20 of 38 passes, totaling 202 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions, while also rushing for 26 yards and losing a fumble in three appearances.