The survey, compiled by NFL insider Mike Sando, gathered the opinions of 50 league decision-makers, including general managers, head coaches, personnel executives, and other influential evaluators. The goal was to group quarterbacks into performance-based tiers going into the upcoming season. Out of 34 quarterbacks evaluated, Rattler landed at No. 33, putting him squarely in the lower end of the rankings.
According to the tiering system used in the poll, quarterbacks are placed from Tier 1 (the league’s elite) down to Tier 5 (those who are either backups or unlikely to succeed as starters). Rattler was grouped into Tier 4, which generally includes quarterbacks seen as fringe starters or players who need significant support from their team to win games. Of the 50 voters, 18 placed him directly in this bottom-tier category. This low placement is particularly notable given that Rattler, a rookie last season, showed flashes of promise in his first year with the Saints. One of the few more optimistic voters in the survey even placed him in Tier 3. That evaluator highlighted Rattler’s progress over the season, especially in matchups against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
“You watch Rattler play against Tampa Bay in his first game, then watch him play against Tampa Bay in his last game, I mean, there was a lot to love there,” the panelist explained. “He improved. I thought Rattler definitely had a chance to be a starter.”
That sentiment speaks to a key storyline for Rattler: while his overall rookie statistics may not have been spectacular, his growth and adaptation to the NFL game were visible. Over the season, he became more comfortable reading defenses, making quicker decisions, and utilizing his mobility to extend plays. However, improvement alone may not be enough to convince most league insiders. The Saints’ offense struggled for consistency in 2024, and Rattler, like many rookie quarterbacks, faced growing pains. Turnovers, missed reads, and difficulties handling heavy pass rushes were among the issues evaluators likely factored into their rankings.
For the Saints, this ranking presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Public perception can influence media narratives and even how opposing defenses prepare for a quarterback. Rattler, still early in his career, will have the 2025 season to prove that he belongs higher up the list. With a full offseason of preparation as the starter, more familiarity with the offensive system, and improved chemistry with his receivers, there is room for him to change minds.
Head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak have both expressed confidence in Rattler’s potential, emphasizing that development is a process. The Saints’ front office appears committed to giving him a fair chance to grow into the role, surrounding him with veteran leadership and improving the offensive line to offer better protection. Ultimately, while being ranked 33rd out of 34 may sting, it also sets the stage for a classic underdog narrative. If Rattler can build on the flashes he showed last year and consistently deliver strong performances, this ranking could look laughably outdated by season’s end. For now, however, the pressure is on—and the league will be watching closely.
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