Not all that long ago, one NFL analyst wondered if the New Orleans Saints might keep a “short leash” on quarterback Derek Carr due to rookie Spencer Rattler’s strong summer.
Maybe not, but Rattler’s performance in the Saints’ preseason finale only splashes some fuel on the fire.
In the second quarter of the finale against the Tennessee Titans, Rattler dropped a dime into double coverage on a touchdown pass to Equanimeous St. Brown.
The highlight itself was impressive, of course. But some of the reactions painted a much, much bigger story, such as this one-liner from Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football: “Spencer Rattler just led the best offensive drive of the preseason.”
While Carr’s short showings this preseason were lukewarm at best, Rattler has notably stood out during practices and preseason games. Sunday was merely the latest example, as he finished with a 7-of-13 line for 105 yards and a touchdown.
Of course, the Saints will be hard-pressed to go away from Carr anytime soon. The investment cost was massive, the organization seemingly refuses to even hint at a rebuild and in his first year with club last season, Carr did complete 68.4 percent of his passes with 25 scores while squeaking out a winning record.
And yet…every NFL fan has seen this before. Carr is 33 years old and could quickly transition into a stopgap solution at best if the Saints flop out of the gates and the postseason seems an impossibility.
Playing teams like Dallas, Philadelphia and Kansas City—along with five NFC South games—before a Week 12 bye would seem to put a visible timeline on this thing. And if it isn't obvious by now, Rattler's blown past Jake Haener for that No. 2 spot on the depth chart.
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