That said, not everyone believes Garoppolo should be the next man up. Former NFL quarterback Kurt Benkert argued that if Stafford can’t go, the Rams should turn to third-year passer Stetson Bennett instead. “There’s not a world where Jimmy G should start over Stetson if Stafford misses time,” Benkert said.

The Rams placed considerable faith in Stafford's short-term impact, agreeing to a new contract that will pay him $44 million guaranteed for the 2025-26 campaign. The organization obviously understands the risks that come with such a commitment, but competing for championships requires one to take a leap of faith sometimes.

Sean McVay has drafted one QB during his tenure with the Rams, whose title hopes hinge on the balky back of 37-year-old Matthew Stafford.