Rams “All In” on Jared Goff, but could it be a different story in 2018?

The Los Angeles Rams will give Jared Goff every chance at being the long term solution in LA. But those chances will come with an expiration date.

The Los Angeles Rams are committed to one thing this season: seeing if Jared Goff is the guy for not just 2017, but beyond. He’ll get every first team rep, take every game snap, and will get every benefit of the doubt in a quest to lock down the starting gig in LA. As a matter of fact, the Rams waived Aaron Murray and will begin auditioning clipboard holders shortly.

Why?

To see just what it is they have in the second year, first round, first overall pick from Cal.

Any depth chart shuffling at the quarterback position will revolve around names, not potential starters. In fact you could write, in ink, Goff and Sean Mannion in that order, and move on.

Because this is Goff’s deal.

It’s his job.

He’ll get ZERO challenges or challengers. Until he does.

2017 is a “one-off” in a lot of ways. Tangible growth and progress via his development and the win/loss record will dictate just how long the Rams roll with Goff. Which is the best way of saying that if it is working, it’s working. But if it’s not, well, same deal.

This season is all about seeing if Jared can be the long term quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams. Spectacular play isn’t required, but progress is. If anything, the relative youth on offense may increase the learning curve for the quarterback.

And he’ll get A LOT of opportunity to make it work.

But it’s also fair to wonder what happens if it doesn’t go as smooth as the LA brain trust would like it to. What if he stumbles and struggles to grasp what McVay wants him to do, and doesn’t or isn’t able to move the Rams beyond the muck and mire of perpetual losing.

Just how long is that leash?

If it goes sideways again, don’t expect the Rams to make another run at a top draft pick in 2018 or 2019. That window is closed and sealed shut. But it doesn’t mean that the Rams wouldn’t look at who becomes available via veteran free agency.

Kirk Cousins anyone?
Anyone?

2017 is another audition where fans and the organization alike will have fingers crossed and a good thought that it works this time around. A hope that with Sean McVay, Goff can “get there.”

Just don’t expect a perpetual audition to make good.

Like I said, the Los Angeles Rams second season in the Coliseum is a show me something kind of a season. There isn’t another do-over or reset next year.

Next: NFL Draft Grades: Los Angeles Rams

Especially for Goff.

Yes, the Rams are all in on number 16. Let’s just hope they don’t go bust again.

The Los Angeles Rams will give Jared Goff every chance at being the long term solution in LA. But those chances will come with an expiration date.

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