Why are the Rams starting Carson Wentz in Week 18?

The Los Angeles Rams did what not many thought they could do when the season began, and that is to secure a playoff berth. They did exactly that in Week 17, though, and thus are ready to give at least one veteran some rest before the postseason.

Wednesday, it was announced that Matthew Stafford would not be starting the Week 18 finale against the San Francisco 49ers.

Instead, it's the former first-round pick, Carson Wentz, whom the Rams signed earlier this season.

Wentz will make his first start since January 1st of last year, when he suited up for the Washington Commanders in a loss to the Browns.

Carson Wentz gets his chance at proving he can, indeed, still play sufficient football in the NFL

In his first season with the Rams, Wentz came on to back up Stafford as the team looked more serious about making a playoff run. When it became apparent that this team had a legitimate shot to stay relevant, bringing in Wentz seemed like a great move.

Stafford has a history of being banged up, therefore having a capable veteran to back him up, with a ton of starting experience, became a priority.

Wentz, of course, was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles back in 2016 before the team moved on to Jalen Hurts. Since then, Wentz has played for both Washington and the Indianapolis Colts.

This gives Wentz a chance at proving he can still play in this league. Just turning 31 a few days ago, Wentz could have a lot of football left in his future, should he show that he can sufficiently lead an offense.

His opportunity does come against one of the better defenses in the league, though. The 49ers are the no. 7 defense in football through 17 weeks, although they have been vulnerable against the pass. This game doesn't mean a whole lot to the Rams, but you better believe it means something to Wentz.

This could be his perfect storm to come out and make a statement, thus giving him an opportunity to further his career either in Los Angeles or somewhere else in 2024.

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