In the world of professional sports, fans and analysts often focus almost exclusively on the athletes themselves—their talent, their statistics, and their highlight-reel plays. Yet, behind many successful athletes stands a figure who has been there from the very beginning, guiding, motivating, and supporting every step of the way. For New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler, that guiding figure is his father, Mike Rattler.
Mike is not just Spencer’s father—he has been his mentor, protector, and constant source of strength. From the youth football fields of Phoenix, Arizona, to the roaring stadiums of the NFL, Mike’s influence has been felt at every stage of his son’s development. While his name may not appear on rosters or stat sheets, his role in Spencer’s journey cannot be overstated.
This article takes a deep dive into the life of Mike Rattler, exploring his background, his career, his unwavering commitment to family, and the ways in which his steady presence has shaped Spencer into the athlete and man he is today.
Early Life and Career Background
Unlike his son, Mike Rattler has lived most of his life outside the limelight. He built a career in sales, reportedly serving as a regional sales representative for Citizens Automobile and Recreation Finance. His professional life, while successful, has always taken a backseat to the most important job he’s ever had: being a father and husband.
Mike and his wife, Susan Konkel Rattler, raised their two children—Spencer and his sister, Olivia—in Phoenix, Arizona. They instilled in their family the values of discipline, perseverance, and loyalty. Those values became the bedrock of Spencer’s rise through the ranks of American football.
The Making of a Quarterback
Spencer’s journey as a quarterback began long before he became a household name in college and professional football. From his earliest days tossing the ball around, Mike was right there, encouraging him and making sure his son had the opportunities and resources to thrive.
Unlike the stereotype of the overbearing “sports dad,” Mike’s approach was rooted in consistency and presence. He reportedly “never missed a practice or a game,” regardless of how busy his own schedule became. That level of dedication sent Spencer a clear message: family comes first, and commitment matters.
Mike’s presence on the sidelines wasn’t just symbolic—it was practical. He became a trusted sounding board for Spencer, often serving as the first person his son would turn to after a big game or a tough loss. That relationship of trust and accountability helped Spencer develop not just as an athlete but also as a competitor with resilience.
Guiding Through the Spotlight Years
Spencer’s rise wasn’t always smooth. As one of the most highly touted quarterback recruits in the nation, he faced intense scrutiny from the media and fans. During his time at Oklahoma, his highs and lows were amplified on social media. Eventually, he transferred to the University of South Carolina, where he rebuilt his reputation and ultimately made it to the NFL.
Through it all, Mike remained a grounding influence.
One notable moment came during Spencer’s transfer saga. Rumors swirled online, including speculation about recruiting inducements. Mike himself took to social media to directly challenge one of these rumors, making it clear that misinformation would not go unanswered. His willingness to speak up underscored not just his protective instincts but also his commitment to defending his family’s integrity.
A Family Man at the Core
Although much of the public conversation around Mike revolves around Spencer, it’s important to note that he is equally devoted to his daughter, Olivia, and his wife, Susan. While Spencer’s football career places the family under a public microscope, Mike has never let the attention disrupt the sense of unity and normalcy within their household.
For Mike, family is not just about celebrating big victories—it’s about showing up every day, offering support, and reinforcing the values of consistency and hard work. This philosophy has allowed both of his children to pursue their own paths with confidence.
Balancing Work, Life, and Sports
One of the most remarkable aspects of Mike’s story is how he has balanced his professional career with his role as a dedicated father. Sales roles often demand significant time and travel, yet Mike made it a priority to structure his life around his family’s needs.
He represents the countless parents who work full-time jobs while still managing to support their children’s passions, whether in sports, arts, or academics. His story resonates with anyone who has ever sacrificed personal convenience to help their child chase a dream.
The Archetype of the Supportive Sports Dad
In American sports culture, there are many examples of parents who play pivotal roles in their children’s success stories. Yet, what makes Mike’s story compelling is the balance he strikes between involvement and empowerment.
He has never attempted to overshadow Spencer or claim credit for his son’s achievements. Instead, he operates as a quiet force behind the scenes—always there, always supportive, and always ready to step in when needed.
This approach offers a model for what modern sports parenting can look like: deeply engaged but not controlling, proud yet humble, protective yet empowering.
Influence Beyond Football
While Spencer’s career has brought the Rattler family into the public eye, Mike’s influence extends far beyond football. He represents a timeless narrative: the devoted father who puts family at the center of everything.
His example teaches important lessons about resilience, presence, and the importance of values in raising children. Whether it’s on the sidelines of a football game or in the living room at home, Mike embodies what it means to be both a role model and a steady foundation for his family.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Mike Rattler
As Spencer continues to carve out his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints, it’s clear that his father’s role in his journey will remain one of the most important influences. Mike’s story is not one of fame or accolades—it’s a story of steadfast support, sacrifice, and love.
Behind every great athlete is often an even greater support system. In the case of Spencer Rattler, that support system has always been anchored by Mike. His legacy is not measured in touchdowns or trophies but in the strength of the family he has nurtured.
And as this story is told, it’s worth remembering that the true heroes in sports often stand just beyond the sidelines, cheering the loudest, caring the most, and shaping the future in ways that statistics can never capture.
This article is proudly featured on Tumblr Magazine, where stories of unsung heroes and inspiring figures come to life.
