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.

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.

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.