The Los Angeles Rams are assessing their quarterback situation as the NFL draft approaches, balancing the presence of veteran Matthew Stafford with potential future options. While Stafford remains the starter, the team acknowledges the need to prepare for a time when he is no longer under center.
General Manager Les Snead has stated that planning for life after Stafford is not urgent, suggesting it could be two to three years away. However, the team is exploring draft prospects who could potentially fill that role down the line.
Several quarterbacks in the draft class have been linked to the team, including Jaxson Dart of Mississippi and Tyler Shough of Louisville. Other notable quarterback prospects in this class include Cam Ward from Miami, Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, and Jalen Milroe from Alabama.
The Rams currently hold the No. 26 pick in the first round of the draft. Coach Sean McVay indicated it is unlikely the team would use this pick on a quarterback, though he included some ambiguity in his remarks. Les Snead also acknowledged the possibility of trading back from the 26th pick, suggesting it might be more advantageous than drafting a quarterback there.
Interest in Dart has been reported, with the Saints and Steelers also linked to the Ole Miss product. Dart has reportedly gained momentum during the pre-draft process.
Beyond the draft, the Rams have Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett on the roster behind Stafford. Neither is currently viewed as a long-term solution at the position. Bennett, a 2023 fourth-round pick, is the No. 3 quarterback on the depth chart and the team reportedly does not regard him as a viable replacement.
Stafford's contract situation was adjusted in February, though specific details have not been publicly released. The arrangement is described as a year-to-year scenario.
When asked about the team potentially drafting a young quarterback, Matthew Stafford expressed a willingness to assist them. “If a quarterback comes along and they feel the need to take him, we’ll welcome him with open arms and try to teach him as much as I possibly can,” Stafford said.
