Andrew Buller-Russ
Each year, the Los Angeles Rams are mixed up with rumors that they’ll seriously consider moving on from their aging franchise quarterback. Only this time, Matthew Stafford is coming off his first MVP award. He’s also another year older and will kick off the 2026 campaign at the age of 38.
Eventually, the end of the road is coming for Stafford; it’s just a question of when. For the Rams, the trick is trying to find the right time to say goodbye, ideally before his abilities fade so much that the Rams can no longer compete for a playoff spot.
Once Stafford’s play fades, the Rams will want to be prepared with another quarterback capable of leading Sean McVay’s team to victory. Is this the offseason where the Rams make a sizable investment in their backup QB position?
Vincent Bonsignore of the New York Post believes that the Rams could use the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft to target a developmental QB prospect that could eventually take over for Stafford.
The Rams have the 13th overall pick plus the 29th selection in the first round of the NFL draft. That’s certainly enough ammo to target a QB of the future, but most draft experts suggest there will only be one QB worthy of a first-round selection (projected No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza). Still, Bonsignore implies that the Rams could take a chance on a prospect, hoping he could become the eventual solution under center in L.A.
“There are a handful of prospects who project to be eventual NFL quarterbacks, perhaps even above-average starters, especially if they land with a team willing to practice patience and pour development resources into them.
New York Post on LA Rams
Would the Rams invest one of their first-round picks in that type of prospect? Only if they are truly convinced that the investment will pay off. But don’t rule it out, especially in the case of Alabama’s Ty Simpson, who has NFL starter traits but is in need of more development time.”
For now, the former Super Bowl winner is entering the final year of his contract. Yet, after leading the NFL with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns, the former No. 1 overall pick may want a raise over the $48.2 million he’s set to make in 2026.
It’s also possible he wants another season or two added to his contract. Whether the Rams feel the same way remains to be seen.
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