Nine candidates for the Rams QB#2 job
While the rumors and insinuations surrounding Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and whether or not he is staying put in L.A. is interesting fodder for fan sites, one fact remain constant. He is under contract for 2025. Until one side blinks and the other tries to leverage it by leaking something, fans must carry on as if it’s business as usual and Staff leads the offense.
If you're going to go with an older quarterback, it makes good sense to have a dependable backup. Last year, the Rams had Jimmy Garappolo and although he never had to come on in relief, there was a certain comfort level with an experienced backup. Currently on the Rams roster, it’s Staff and Stetson Bennett at QB and there’s not any comfort level with Bennett as the backup.
Who would fit the Rams needs best? Here’s a look at possible candidates.
Danny Jones - 6’ 5” 221 lb.
Originally a 2019 Round 1 pick, Jones went from #6 overall to being cut in late 2024. Bust? Or needing a fresh start in a welcoming offense? Four offensive coordinators in five seasons does not bode well for growth. After being released, he was picked up by the Minnesota Vikings. He was signed at the veteran minimum after collecting $108mil from the New York Giants and is now a free agent. Played in a Sean McVay-style West Coast offense in college under a “QB guru”. Good, not great arm. Reads the field well, but needs to trust his arm on hitting receivers coming open into windows. Strong scrambler with good passing mechanics/technique. Many pundits thought he was more of a Day 2 draft talent rather than franchise player. Could McVay and Dave Ragone (L.A. QB coach) help fulfill his potential?
Justin Fields - 6’ 3” 227 lb.
The Chicago Bears took Fields at #11 in the 2021 draft and after four pro seasons, 50 games with 44 starts, he’s still a work in progress. The ChiBears traded him to Pittsburgh before the 2024 season in exchange for a conditional Round 6 pick. His strength is as a dual threat. As a runner, he’s very fast with a strong lower half and as a passer, he combines a strong arm with good accuracy. So far, Fields’ problems appear to stem from holding the ball too long. This could have a simple fix or be the harbinger of deep problems. I think most fans would love to see a mobile QB of his potential play in the McVay offense. With so many QB openings and the draft class not being particularly strong, Fields may have suitors for a QB#1 role and not fit into the affordable slot.
Zach Wilson - 6’ 2 214 lb.
Could the Rams be a life line for the former #2 overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft? After being inserted into the starting lineup before he was ready, Wilson...