Rams Face Quarterback Dilemma in 2026 NFL Draft

Los Angeles must decide whether to draft a QB of the future or sign a veteran backup for aging star Matthew Stafford.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:05am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a quarterback in motion, with sharp planes of navy, gold, and crimson red, conceptually representing the Rams' complex quarterback situation.A cubist interpretation of the Rams' quarterback dilemma as they approach the 2026 NFL Draft.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Rams have less draft capital after a major offseason trade, but they still face a critical decision at quarterback. With Matthew Stafford nearing the end of his career and Stetson Bennett IV as the only QB on the roster, the Rams must determine whether to draft a potential successor like Ty Simpson or sign a veteran free agent like Teddy Bridgewater or CJ Beathard as a backup plan.

Why it matters

The Rams are projected to be a Super Bowl contender again in 2026, with the big game being played in their home stadium. However, their quarterback situation is a major question mark, as they need to ensure they have a capable backup plan in place in case the 35-year-old Stafford suffers an injury or declines in performance.

The details

The Rams traded away significant draft capital to acquire All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey, leaving them with fewer picks to address other needs. Their biggest question is whether to use one of those precious selections on a quarterback like Ty Simpson, who is projected to be the second-best QB in the draft, or to sign a veteran free agent like Bridgewater or Beathard to serve as Stafford's backup.

  • Matthew Stafford will be one of the oldest quarterbacks in the NFL next season.

The players

Matthew Stafford

The veteran quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, who led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2023 but is now nearing the end of his career.

Stetson Bennett IV

The only quarterback currently on the Rams' roster, having been drafted in 2023 but yet to see any NFL game action.

Ty Simpson

A highly touted quarterback prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, projected to be the second-best QB in the class.

Teddy Bridgewater

A veteran free agent quarterback who could be a potential signing for the Rams as a backup option.

CJ Beathard

Another veteran free agent quarterback who could be a potential signing for the Rams as a backup option.

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What’s next

The Rams will need to make a decision on their quarterback situation prior to the 2026 NFL Draft, either by selecting a potential successor like Ty Simpson or signing a veteran free agent to serve as Matthew Stafford's backup.

The takeaway

The Rams' quarterback situation is a critical question mark as they look to defend their Super Bowl title and compete for another championship in 2026. Their decision on how to address this need will have major implications for their long-term success.