In a refreshing display of teammate loyalty and genuine belief in potential, New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave has become one of Spencer Rattler's most vocal advocates, championing the young quarterback's future as an NFL starter.

Speaking to reporters in the locker room Monday, Olave didn't mince words about his quarterback's capabilities. "Spencer's a great quarterback," Olave declared with conviction. "I don't believe he's a backup quarterback in this league."

It's heartening to see a veteran receiver speak so confidently about a young player's abilities, especially in an era where quick judgments often overshadow careful evaluation. Olave went further, acknowledging the challenges of playing the most scrutinized position in sports. "In this world nowadays, people always want to point the finger at somebody when something's going wrong," he noted thoughtfully. "I feel like Spencer's done a great job when he was back there starting at quarterback."

What makes Olave's endorsement particularly meaningful is its context. He's equally enthusiastic about Tyler Shough's prospects with the Saints, even making a case for Shough to win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. The fact that Olave can champion both quarterbacks speaks to his genuine character and his ability to recognize talent wherever it emerges.

For Rattler, 2026 could represent an exciting fresh start. Several quarterback-needy teams, including the Indianapolis Colts and Minnesota Vikings, will be exploring their options this spring. Additionally, teams with aging starters like the Los Angeles Rams and Pittsburgh Steelers might see value in bringing in a young quarterback with starting experience and room to grow.

The beauty of Rattler's situation is that he's gained valuable NFL experience while still being on a cost-effective rookie contract. This combination makes him an attractive option for teams looking to build around a developing quarterback without breaking the bank on an expensive veteran.

While his 1-13 record as a starter might raise eyebrows at first glance, anyone familiar with football knows that quarterback records rarely tell the complete story. They reflect entire team performance, not just individual ability. Rattler has shown flashes of the talent that made him a highly-regarded prospect, and with the right system and supporting cast, there's every reason to believe he could flourish.

Olave's closing sentiment captures what many who've worked closely with Rattler believe: "He deserves another opportunity to be a starting quarterback in this league." Coming from someone who catches passes from him and sees his preparation day in and day out, that endorsement carries real weight.

As the 2026 offseason unfolds, it will be fascinating to watch which team decides to give Rattler that opportunity. With believers like Chris Olave in his corner and multiple teams searching for quarterback solutions, Spencer Rattler's next chapter could be his breakthrough moment. Sometimes all a talented player needs is the right opportunity and people who believe in them—and Rattler clearly has both heading into this pivotal offseason.