Rams target specific path to Matthew Stafford’s QB replacement
Context:
The Los Angeles Rams are strategizing for a future where they will need to replace quarterback Matthew Stafford. While Stafford is expected to continue playing next year, the Rams are considering a shift in their drafting strategy under coach Sean McVay by potentially selecting a first-round quarterback in 2026. This speculation is fueled by the Rams' possession of two first-round picks in what is predicted to be a talent-rich quarterback class. Despite interest in quarterbacks such as Tyler Shough and Kyle McCord, the Rams have not been serious contenders to draft a quarterback recently. The presence of seasoned quarterback Stafford could provide an ideal mentoring environment for a rookie, should the Rams decide to draft one in the upcoming years.
Dive Deeper:
Matthew Stafford is anticipated to remain the starting quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams next season, but the team is preparing for a future without him, indicating a potential change in their drafting strategy.
There is speculation that the Rams, who have never drafted a first-round quarterback during the Sean McVay era, might break this trend in 2026, as they hold two first-round picks, including one from Atlanta.
The 2026 draft class is expected to be rich with quarterback talent, with notable prospects such as Clemson's Cade Klubnik, South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers, LSU's Garrett Nussmeier, and Penn State's Drew Allar.
While the Rams showed interest in quarterbacks like Tyler Shough and Kyle McCord, they did not aggressively pursue these options in the recent draft cycle.
Matthew Stafford's experience and skills are seen as valuable assets for mentoring a rookie quarterback, making the Rams an attractive destination for a young talent.
The Rams' draft position will largely depend on their performance and the outcome of the Falcon's season; they might leverage their picks or trade options to secure a promising quarterback.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports that the Rams' future quarterback decisions are crucial to watch, given the potential shifts in their strategic approach to team building.
Matthew Stafford isn't going anywhere this year.
But eventually, the Los Angeles Rams will need a new quarterback.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler charted the path for L.A.'s next QB move in a new article out Wednesday.
Here's what Fowler wrote:
"The Rams have never drafted a first-round quarterback in the Sean McVay era. Some inside the league believe that could change in 2026, with Los Angeles armed with two first-rounders (including Atlanta's pick) in what's considered a deep quarterback class. Matthew Stafford seems to be on a year-to-year schedule. The Rams liked a handful of quarterbacks, including Tyler Shough and Kyle McCord, but were never a major threat to take one this year."
Even if Arch Manning doesn't enter the 2026 draft, it's a high-end class.
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Guys like Clemson's Cade Klubnik, South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers, LSU's Garrett Nussmeier, Penn State's Drew Allar and more will be in the picture.
The Rams will probably plan on Stafford starting again next year, too.
It'd be the perfect situation for a rookie quarterback. There would be few better mentors in the NFL than Stafford for a young QB.
If the Rams have the kind of season they want to have, they won't be picking too high, unless the Falcons tank, since they have their pick, too.
They might also have the ammo to move up in a trade if they indeed want a quarterback.
It's definitely something to watch for.
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