The Los Angeles Rams are apparently not discussing adding a veteran quarterback for the 2026 season.
The Los Angeles Rams appear to be trending towards not calling mainstay backup Jimmy Garoppolo. During a media session, head coach Sean McVay confirmed that the team has not discussed adding a veteran quarterback.
When McVay was asked about the quarterback room and the chances that the team is looking for another passer, he essentially shot down the idea.
"That's probably not something that we've really talked about as of right now, but um would never rule out, but not right now, that hasn't been something that we've talked about," McVay said.
There is a strong level of confidence in Matthew Stafford staying on the field for all 17 games, and even more so in the backups that are currently on the team. Stetson Bennett IV figures to be the backup, while rookie Ty Simpson could be the team's emergency third quarterback.
That competition has not yet figured itself out, but McVay praised Bennett for his work through OTAs and minicamp, while Stafford has not been in attendance.
"I've seen tremendous growth. you know, he obviously with Matthew not being out here, um, based on the plan and the schedule that we've kind of thought was going to be best for him for, you know, for now and for the long term. Setson's gotten a lot more reps than he would have otherwise. And so, I think he's done a really nice job," McVay said.
Stafford is being held out of minicamp to ensure he is ready to play a full healthy season, which makes sense considering his back issues from the 2025 offseason and recent injury history.
Bennett has also had a strong command of the offense, which may improve his stock greatly for the offense and for McVay. Though he is not viewed as a starter, he could slot into the backup position for 2026 and potentially beyond that.
Garoppolo is also still not retired, despite talking about the possibility. If the Rams truly needed him, he might be more inclined to return, given a contract that he found favorable.
Still, there is a lot riding on this Rams season, especially with the addition of Myles Garrett. Los Angeles has once again gone all-in, and anything less than a deep playoff run would be viewed as something of a total failure.
Even more so if the team did not take the steps to ensure they have a competent quarterback to lead the way, should something befall Stafford.
Emergency situations have happened in the past, but it does appear that McVay and the Rams are plenty happy with the quartebacks they have in the room right now.
