When we watch NFL games, we see bright lights, loud fans, and strong players on the field. But have you ever wondered who helped those players reach that level? Behind many big athletes, there is usually a strong parent who stood by them from the very start.
That is where Mike Rattler comes in. He is best known as Spencer Rattler’s father, but his story is much more than that. He is a proud dad, a hardworking man, and one of the biggest supporters behind Spencer’s football journey.
In this article, we will talk about Mike Rattler’s life, his career, his family, and how he helped shape his son into an NFL quarterback. You will see why his role matters so much, even if he stays out of the spotlight.
Mike Rattler Quick Bio
|
|
| Full Name |
Michael Rattler |
| Known As |
Spencer Rattler’s Father |
| Nationality |
American |
| Ethnicity |
African-American |
| Education |
University of Arkansas (1991 graduate) |
| Profession |
Regional Sales Representative |
| Company |
Citizens Automobile & Recreation Finance |
| Football Background |
Former player and youth coach |
| Spouse |
Susan Konkel Rattler |
| Children |
Spencer Rattler, Olivia Rattler |
| Daughter’s Sport |
Division I Beach Volleyball |
| Residence |
United States |
| Public Presence |
Private and low-profile |
Who Is Mike Rattler?
So, who is Mike Rattler?
Mike Rattler is an American father, husband, and working professional. Most people know him because he is Spencer Rattler’s father, but he has built his own life through hard work and strong values.
He is not a celebrity. He does not chase fame. But when Spencer started rising in college football and later entered the NFL, people naturally became curious about the man who raised him.
Mike Rattler became known as the quiet but powerful support system behind a rising quarterback. And once you learn about him, you understand why Spencer often thanks his parents for his success.
Early Life of Mike Rattler
Mike Rattler was born and raised in the United States. While he keeps many early life details private, it is clear that he grew up with strong values like discipline, respect, and hard work.
He later attended the University of Arkansas and completed his studies in 1991. College helped shape his mindset. It also gave him structure and direction for his future career.
Even though we do not know every detail of his childhood, we do know this: Mike Rattler grew into a man who believed in effort, patience, and staying focused. These are the same values he later passed down to his children.
Mike Rattler’s Football Background
Did Mike Rattler play football himself?
Yes, he did. Mike played football when he was younger. He also worked as a coach in youth leagues and different sports groups. This gave him a strong understanding of the game.
Because of this background, Mike Rattler knew what it takes to train, compete, and stay disciplined. When Spencer was young, Mike did not push him into just one sport. Instead, he encouraged him to try different sports.
Spencer played baseball and basketball before fully focusing on football. That wide sports base helped him grow stronger and more confident. It also shows how Spencer Rattler’s father guided him with balance, not pressure.
Mike Rattler Career and Work Life
Outside of football, Mike Rattler built a steady career.
He works as a regional sales representative for Citizens Automobile and Recreation Finance. His job involves communication, planning, and working with people. It is not flashy, but it is honest and stable.
Being a sales representative requires patience and strong people skills. These are qualities Mike clearly has. He balanced his work life while still being present for his children’s sports activities.
Think about this for a moment. Many parents work long hours and still show up to games and practices. Mike Rattler was that kind of father. He never let his job stop him from supporting his son.
Meet Susan Rattler Spencer Rattler’s Mother
Behind every strong father, there is often a strong mother too.
Susan Konkel Rattler is Spencer’s mother and Mike’s wife. She was born on March 8, 1970, in Allen Park, Michigan. She later built her life in Arizona.
Susan works as a second-grade teacher in the Paradise Valley Unified School District. She has more than 30 years of teaching experience. That means she has helped guide hundreds of children through school.
As a teacher, she values education and discipline. At home, she supported both Spencer and his sister Olivia in school and sports. While Mike Rattler brought sports knowledge, Susan brought structure and learning. Together, they created a balanced home.
Mike Rattler and Susan Rattler Family Life
Mike and Susan have been married for many years. Their marriage is built on teamwork and shared values.
They have two children: Spencer and Olivia. Both grew up in a home where sports, education, and respect were important. The Rattler family believes in staying grounded.
Even when Spencer became famous in college football, the family stayed private. They did not chase media attention. Instead, they focused on supporting their children quietly.
It is clear that Spencer Rattler’s father and mother worked as a team. One guided from the classroom. One guided from the sidelines. Both helped build strong character in their children.
Mike Rattler as Spencer Rattler’s Father
This is where the story becomes even more powerful.
Mike Rattler was not just a dad who watched from afar. He was deeply involved in Spencer’s football journey. He drove him to practices. He watched games. He helped with training and advice.
In 2021, Spencer shared that his father handled many of his interview processes, especially during the NIL period. That allowed Spencer to focus only on football. Imagine how helpful that must have been for a young athlete under pressure.
When Spencer was benched during his time at Oklahoma in 2021, it was a tough moment. Many fans criticized him. But Mike stayed steady. He supported his son and reminded him to keep working.
That is what strong fathers do. They stand close during both wins and losses.
When Mike Rattler Defended His Son
Every athlete faces rumors. Spencer was no different.
In 2022, there were talks online that Spencer might transfer to Arizona State. An ESPN host shared that the Rattler family was asking for too much money. That rumor spread quickly. People started talking without knowing the full story.
This is when Mike Rattler stepped in. He went on Twitter and clearly said the report was not true. He explained that no money offer was made and that the story was wrong. He did not attack anyone. He simply defended his son with calm words.
That moment showed something powerful. Spencer Rattler’s father was not afraid to protect his son’s name. He stayed respectful but firm. That is the kind of support many young athletes need when things get loud and messy.
Mike Rattler and Olivia Rattler
Spencer is not the only athlete in the family.
Mike and Susan also have a daughter, Olivia Rattler. She was born on December 17, 2002. Just like her brother, she loves sports. She plays Division I beach volleyball at Missouri State University.
Olivia started playing volleyball at age six. She trained hard and even joined programs like RPM Sand and Arizona Sky Volleyball Club. Over time, she earned awards and strong recognition in high school competitions.
What stands out here is balance. Mike Rattler supports both of his children equally. He celebrates Spencer’s football wins and Olivia’s volleyball success with the same pride. That shows fairness and true love as a father.
The Close Bond Between Mike Rattler and Spencer
The bond between father and son is very clear.
Spencer has publicly thanked his dad many times. On Father’s Day, he once shared a message saying his dad taught him everything about the game. He said he would not be where he is without him. That is not a small statement.
In another post, Spencer said his dad never missed a game or practice. Think about that. Not one game. That kind of presence builds confidence in a young athlete.
Mike has also shared moments with Spencer, like golfing together or celebrating awards. These are simple moments, but they matter. They show that their relationship is not just about football. It is about life.
How Mike Rattler Shaped Spencer’s Success
Success does not happen overnight. It takes years of effort.
When Spencer was young, Mike Rattler encouraged him to try different sports. That helped him grow strong and flexible. He did not force him into one path too early. Instead, he guided him step by step.
When Spencer was benched during his time at Oklahoma, it was a hard time. Many young players might lose confidence. But Spencer stayed focused. Why? Because he had support at home. Spencer Rattler’s father helped him stay calm and keep working.
Later, Spencer transferred to South Carolina and rebuilt his career. In 2024, he was drafted by the New Orleans Saints. That moment did not just belong to Spencer. It also belonged to the family who stood behind him.
Where Is Mike Rattler Now
As of 2026, Mike Rattler still lives a private life.
He continues working as a regional sales representative. He does not chase interviews or public attention. He prefers to stay behind the scenes.
He still supports Spencer’s NFL journey. Whether it is watching games, sending messages, or cheering quietly, he remains present. That has not changed.
Even with growing fame around his son, Spencer Rattler’s father stays grounded. He focuses on family first.
Why Mike Rattler’s Story Matters
You might ask, why does this story matter?
It matters because not all heroes are on the field. Some are in the stands. Some are driving kids to practice. Some are answering late-night calls after a tough game.
Mike Rattler shows what steady parenting looks like. No drama. No loud speeches. Just presence, support, and strong values.
His story reminds us that behind every strong athlete, there is often a strong family. And sometimes, the quiet support is the most powerful support of all.
Final Thoughts
In the end, Mike Rattler is more than just Spencer Rattler’s father.
He is a husband, a working professional, and a steady leader at home. He helped build the foundation that allowed Spencer to grow into an NFL quarterback.
He defended his son when needed. He supported him during tough seasons. He celebrated wins without chasing attention.
In 2026, as Spencer continues his professional career, one thing is clear. The success story did not start in a stadium. It started at home.
And at the heart of that home was Mike Rattler.
(FAQs)
Did Mike Rattler play football himself?
Yes, he did. Mike Rattler played football when he was younger and even coached youth teams. His sports background helped him guide Spencer from a young age.
Did Mike Rattler really defend Spencer online?
In 2022, Mike Rattler publicly defended his son on Twitter after rumors about money demands during a transfer. He calmly corrected the false story and protected his son’s name.
Does Mike Rattler manage Spencer’s career?
Mike helped handle interviews and NIL discussions during Spencer’s college years. This allowed Spencer to focus fully on football without distractions.
Does Mike Rattler have other children?
He has a daughter, Olivia Rattler, who plays Division I beach volleyball. Mike supports both of his children equally in their sports journeys.
Is Mike Rattler active in the public spotlight?
No. Even though he is Spencer Rattler’s father, Mike Rattler prefers a quiet and private life. He supports from the sidelines rather than seeking fame.
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