Spencer Rattler Parents: The Heartbreaking Struggle & 2026 Triumph

When Spencer Rattler steps onto the field as the New Orleans Saints quarterback, he carries more than just his own dreams.

Behind every successful athlete is a support system that shapes their journey from the ground up.

For Spencer, that foundation was built by Spencer Rattler parents, Michael Rattler and Susan Rattler.

Their unwavering support has been the backbone of his rise from a high school phenom featured on Netflix’s “QB1: Beyond the Lights” to an NFL quarterback.

This is the story of the two people who made it all possible.

Who Are Spencer Rattler Parents? Meet Michael and Susan Rattler

Professional Background and Early Influence

Michael Rattler works as a Regional Sales Manager, but his real passion has always been sports.

He recognized Spencer’s talent early and dedicated himself to nurturing it from day one.

Growing up in Phoenix, Arizona, Michael ensured Spencer had every opportunity to develop his skills.

He attended every practice, analyzed game footage, and instilled a work ethic that would define his son’s career.

Michael’s approach was hands-on but balanced; he pushed Spencer toward excellence while letting him enjoy the game.

The Protector Role During the Oklahoma Crisis

The 2021 Oklahoma benching was one of the darkest periods in Spencer’s career.

After losing his starting position to Caleb Williams, Spencer faced intense media scrutiny and public criticism.

Michael didn’t shy away from defending his son in interviews and on social media.

He made it clear that he believed the situation was handled unfairly, but never let bitterness take over.

Instead, he helped Spencer focus on the transfer to South Carolina and the comeback ahead.

Michael’s guidance during this transition proved crucial; he helped Spencer navigate recruiting again and land somewhere he could rebuild his confidence.

Susan Rattler: The Heart of the Family

The Educator Who Shaped Character

Susan Rattler is an educator and teacher who brought discipline, structure, and academic excellence to Spencer’s upbringing.

While Michael focused on athletic development, Susan ensured Spencer never neglected his education.

She instilled values beyond football: integrity, humility, and compassion.

Spencer’s teammates and coaches often comment on his character and leadership, qualities that trace directly back to Susan’s influence.

Even during Spencer’s busiest football seasons, Susan made sure he maintained academic commitments.

She believed education would always be his safety net, regardless of what happened with football.

The Cancer Battle That Changed Everything

In 2021, while Spencer was dealing with his Oklahoma benching, Susan received devastating news: a cancer diagnosis.

For Spencer, this put everything into perspective.

Football suddenly seemed less important compared to his mother’s health.

Spencer has spoken about how his mother’s strength during chemotherapy treatment inspired him to face his own challenges.

Watching her fight with a positive spirit taught him what true resilience looks like.

2026 Update: Susan is now cancer-free and living an active, healthy life, regularly attending Spencer’s Saints games.

Her recovery has been a source of immense joy for the entire Rattler family.

Spencer Rattler’s Multi-Ethnic Heritage

Understanding His Background

• Spencer comes from a beautifully diverse family that reflects modern America.
• His father, Michael Rattler, is African American.
• His mother, Susan Rattler, is Caucasian (White).
• This biracial heritage has shaped Spencer’s identity and worldview significantly.
• Growing up in a mixed-race family in Phoenix gave Spencer exposure to different perspectives and cultures.
• He learned to navigate different communities and connect with people from all backgrounds.

Representation in the NFL

• As a mixed-race quarterback in the NFL, Spencer represents millions of young people with similar backgrounds.
• He shows them that they don’t have to choose one part of their identity over another.
• Michael and Susan celebrated all aspects of his heritage, giving Spencer the confidence to be authentically himself.
• Interestingly, Caleb Williams, who replaced Spencer at Oklahoma, also comes from a biracial family, showing how diversity in the quarterback position continues to evolve.

The Rattler Family: Ethnicity and Background of Spencer Rattler Parents

Member	Name	Background/Role
Father	Michael Rattler	Regional Sales Manager / Football Mentor
Mother	Susan Rattler	Educator/Teacher/Emotional Support
Ethnicity	Father: African-American	Mother: Caucasian
Hometown	Phoenix, Arizona	Where the journey started
Sister	Younger sister	Part of support system
Status	Still married	Strong partnership

Are Spencer Rattler’s Parents Still Married?

Yes, Michael and Susan Rattler are still married and going strong.

Their solid partnership has provided Spencer with a stable home environment throughout his career.

In an industry where family separations are common due to pressures of raising elite athletes, the Rattlers have stayed united.

They communicate well, present a united front on decisions, and show mutual respect, teaching Spencer what healthy relationships look like.

Current Status in 2026: NFL Journey with the Saints

Spencer’s Recent Performance

• During the 2025 NFL season, Spencer saw action with the New Orleans Saints as part of their quarterback rotation.
• He demonstrated flashes of the talent that made him a highly touted prospect coming out of South Carolina.
• While facing typical challenges young NFL quarterbacks encounter, Spencer showed his arm strength and mobility.
• The Saints organization remains committed to his development as they evaluate long-term plans at the position.

Parents’ Presence at Games

• Michael and Susan are frequently spotted in the stands at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
• They’ve become familiar faces to Saints fans who appreciate their unwavering support.
• Rain or shine, win or lose, they’re there for their son.
• Their presence provides Spencer with comfort and connection to his roots.
• The family often travels together, with Spencer’s girlfriend, Yazmina Gonzalez, also joining them at games.

The Journey from Phoenix to New Orleans

• The Rattler family’s journey from Phoenix, Arizona, to New Orleans represents years of sacrifice and dedication.
• Michael and Susan have been there every step, from youth football fields to the NFL’s bright lights.
• They now split time between their Arizona home and frequent trips to Louisiana for Spencer’s games.

Yazmina Gonzalez: Extended Family Support

While discussing Spencer’s support system, it’s important to mention Yazmina Gonzalez.

Yazmina has been Spencer’s girlfriend and is often seen supporting him at games alongside Michael and Susan.

The Rattler family has welcomed her into their close-knit circle.

Fans often search for “Spencer Rattler’s wife,” but as of 2026, Spencer and Yazmina are in a committed relationship while he focuses on establishing his NFL career.

Life Lessons Spencer Rattler Learned From His Parents

Handling Adversity

• The most important lesson Spencer learned from his parents is how to handle adversity with grace.
• Both modeled resilience during difficult times, Susan’s cancer battle and Spencer’s career setbacks.
• They taught him that setbacks are temporary, but character is permanent.
• This mindset helped him bounce back from Oklahoma and thrive at South Carolina.

Education Matters

• Susan’s influence ensured Spencer graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree.
• This achievement matters as much to his parents as any football accomplishment.
• They understood that football careers are uncertain and often short, so Spencer needed tools to succeed beyond the game.

Staying Grounded

• Despite Netflix fame, being a five-star recruit, and playing in the NFL, Spencer remains remarkably grounded.
• Michael and Susan never let success go to anyone’s head in the Rattler household.
• They celebrated achievements but always emphasized that more work needed to be done.
• Even now, when Spencer returns home, he’s just their son, not an NFL quarterback.

The High School Lesson: QB1 and Growing Up

Netflix Fame at 17

• Spencer’s appearance on Netflix’s “QB1: Beyond the Lights” brought him national attention as a high school senior.
• The documentary followed elite quarterback recruits, giving Spencer exposure but also increasing pressure.
• Michael and Susan were protective during filming, ensuring Spencer stayed focused.

Learning from Mistakes

• During his high school journey featured on QB1, Spencer faced challenges that taught him valuable lessons.
• Like many teenagers, he made mistakes along the way.
• His parents used these moments to teach him about accountability and growth.
• Michael and Susan’s approach was never to shield Spencer from consequences but to help him learn from them.
• This parenting philosophy prepared him for the intense scrutiny he’d face at Oklahoma and beyond.
• The experience taught the entire Rattler family about fame’s double-edged nature.

The Oklahoma to South Carolina Transfer

Why He Left Oklahoma

After being benched for Caleb Williams in 2021, Spencer transferred to South Carolina.

Coach Lincoln Riley’s decision was performance-based. Spencer struggled with turnovers and inconsistent play.

Michael supported Spencer publicly during this difficult transition.

The South Carolina Redemption

• In South Carolina, Spencer regained his confidence under coach Shane Beamer.
• He threw for over 3,000 yards and led the Gamecocks to bowl games.
• More importantly, he rebuilt his draft stock and proved he could overcome adversity.
• Michael and Susan attended every game, providing the support system he needed.
• This chapter was crucial in Spencer’s journey to the NFL.

Understanding Spencer’s Development

Physical Attributes

Spencer Rattler stands at 6’1″ and weighs approximately 215 pounds.

His arm strength and mobility are standout physical attributes.

Michael was instrumental in Spencer’s physical development from youth, working on strength training and quarterback mechanics.

Mental Growth

Early in his career, Spencer struggled with decision-making under pressure and holding the ball too long.

However, he’s worked diligently to improve these areas.

In South Carolina, he showed significant improvement in decision-making and reduced turnovers.

The experience of being benched made him a more mature quarterback.

Clearing Up Common Misconceptions

Was Spencer Ever Suspended?

Spencer was benched at Oklahoma for performance reasons, not suspended for disciplinary issues.

He has maintained a clean record throughout his football career.

Michael and Susan raised him to be responsible and avoid serious trouble.

His Real Name

Spencer’s full legal name is Spencer Michael Rattler.

The middle name “Michael” honors his father, creating a meaningful family connection.

Conclusion

Spencer Rattler’s journey from Phoenix high school star to NFL quarterback isn’t a solo achievement.

Michael and Susan Rattler have been there every step, as coaches, cheerleaders, protectors, and guides.

They celebrated triumphs and supported him through dark moments like the Oklahoma benching and Susan’s cancer diagnosis.

Their multiethnic heritage shaped Spencer’s identity, while their values kept him grounded despite fame.

Michael’s hands-on involvement, combined with Susan’s emphasis on character, created the perfect balance.

As Spencer continues his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints, one constant remains.

In the stands, rain or shine, Michael and Susan Rattler will be there, because that’s what they’ve always done.

Spencer may throw the touchdowns, but his parents are the real MVPs of his story.

They didn’t just raise a quarterback; they raised a man of character who happens to play football.

That’s the difference between being sports parents and being great parents.

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