New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler began the year as the starter before getting benched for rookie Tyler Shough midway through the season. The national media may criticize his play, but he’s a capable backup who is still young and can develop into a starter. It may not be on the Saints, but he could be a gem for someone else.
Rattler threw for 1,586 yards, eight touchdowns, and five interceptions in his limited opportunities. He only went 1-7 as a starter in 2025 but faced a challenging schedule against five current playoff teams. Part of the Saints early season struggles can be blamed on Ratter, however, it’s irrational to put all the blame on him.
Rattler’s career isn’t over, but his time in New Orleans appears to be dwindling. The Saints trading him is a real possibility that would mutually benefit both sides. He could go and battle for playing time somewhere else and the Saints could acquire some draft capital. Here are five teams that would be a potential fit for Rattler.
Spencer Rattler could have a bright future away from the Saints
New York Jets
The Jets quarterback room is a mess. The Justin Fields experiment failed, Brady Cook didn't show flashes, and Tyrod Taylor is aging. Fans expected them to select Oregon's Dante Moore at the second pick in the NFL Draft for their long-term future, but he recently decided to return to school. Now, it would make sense to pick up Rattler and have him compete for the starter until next offseason.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals appear to be heading towards a breakup with Kyler Murray. They still have Jacoby Brissett under contract for one more year, but Rattler would enter a QB competition with him and could be the starter eventually. Additionally, Rattler could return to his home state of Arizona with this move.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Aaron Rodgers is likely to retire this offseason and leave the Steelers without a quarterback. Rattler's biggest competition for playing time would be Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard. These aren't bad options, but Rattler's arguably the best player between these three.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings would have been a playoff team if their QB situation was better. They drafted JJ McCarthy in the first round and his play has been alright, but inconsisent and filled with injuries. Carson Wentz is a free agent and Max Brosmer isn't the long-term future. McCarthy would undoubtedly be the starter, but Rattler would be an excellent backup who can jump into action when needed.
Miami Dolphins
Tua Tagovaiola was demoted to the team's third string, emergency quarterback at the end of the season. It's likely he won't be on the roster in 2026. The starter appears to be rookie Quinn Ewers for next year in Miami, which Rattler would have a fair shot at competing with for the starter.
Spencer Rattler and the Saints appear to be heading towards a mutual breakup this offseason. His career in New Orleans is likely over, but that doesn’t mean his career is. There are at least five landing spots where he could reinvigorate his career.