The 2024 NFL Draft has revealed quite a few surprises, but none more intriguing for Los Angeles Rams fans than the team’s decision to bypass drafting a quarterback. Despite a flurry of QB selections early on, with six quarterbacks off the board within the first 12 picks, the Rams stood pat, not picking until the 19th slot.
This strategic move has opened up a golden opportunity for Stetson Bennett, who now finds himself securely positioned as the team’s third-string quarterback.
Stetson Bennett: Emerging from the Shadows
Last season was a rocky start for Bennett, who missed most of his rookie year due to personal matters. Returning to the Rams, Bennett is now entrenched behind veterans Matthew Stafford and Jimmy Garoppolo.
With Garoppolo facing a two-game suspension at the beginning of the season for violating the NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances, Bennett’s role as a backup could become crucial sooner than expected.
Sean McVay, the head coach of the Rams, has expressed optimism about Bennett’s progress.
“He looks good,” McVay noted, highlighting Bennett’s attentiveness and readiness in the early off-season activities. This initial phase of Organized Team Activities (OTAs) doesn’t allow field play yet, but Bennett’s presence and attitude have made a positive impression.
The Backup Quarterback Conundrum
The Rams’ history with backup quarterbacks has been less than stellar, which makes their confidence in Bennett noteworthy. Last year, the team struggled without a reliable second-string quarterback, a lesson that seems to have influenced their current strategy. The importance of a dependable backup cannot be overstated, especially as Stafford, now 36, continues to age.
The fan interest in former #Georgia QB Stetson Bennett has not waned, to the extent fans are hanging on to every Rams social media post … https://t.co/MGoJnVaJUg pic.twitter.com/m3NslgtANR
— DawgNation (@DawgNation) May 1, 2024
A New Hope for Los Angeles Rams
Aside from Bennett, several players have emerged as beneficiaries of the Rams’ draft strategy. Defensive backs like Derion Kendrick, Cobie Durant and Tre Tomlinson are poised to solidify their roles thanks to the team’s decision not to draft a cornerback.
This move suggests a strong belief in the existing roster and a focus on enhancing the pass rush, which should help these players shine.
Tight ends Colby Parkinson and Davis Allen also stand to gain. The Rams’ decision not to aggressively pursue Brock Bowers in the draft speaks volumes about their trust in their current tight-end lineup, providing these players with a clearer path to significant playing time.
The Other Side of the Coin
However, not everyone can be a winner in the aftermath of the draft. Running backs Kyren Williams and Zach Evans may face uncertainty. The arrival of Blake Corum could disrupt the existing dynamics, potentially leading to a split in carrying duties, which has been a rarity in McVay’s offensive schemes.
The offensive line also sees potential shifts with newcomers who may not fit the existing schemes as well as hoped. Players like Logan Bruss, AJ Arcuri, and Warren McClendon might find their roles diminishing as the team evolves its offensive strategy.
The Path Ahead for Stetson Bennett and the Los Angeles Rams
As training camp and the preseason approaches, all eyes will be on Stetson Bennett to see if he can capitalize on this opportunity to secure his place on the team and perhaps, carve out a future as a potential successor to Matthew Stafford. The coming months are crucial for Bennett’s career trajectory and for the Rams’ strategic direction as they look to build a robust team capable of competing at the highest levels.
