What will Carson Wentz show LA Rams fans in Week 18?

II: Rams can inflate Wentz's market value with a solid Week 18 performance

The LA Rams signed veteran quarterback to a one-year 'prove-it' contract for 2023. It's a standard length of time for a veteran signing on the Rams roster, and it allows the team to see whether or not that player can produce at or exceed expectations. Of course, it does come with a risk. Much like the risk in signing veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield in 2022, if the player does well, they could price themselves right out of the Rams budget.

Despite a 1-3 record after signing on with the Rams (ignoring his miraculous win in relief after just arriving to the team), QB Baker Mayfield leveraged his Rams experience to sign a contract with an opportunity to start for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While that may have derailed any plans by the Rams to re-sign him to a backup quarterback role, it will likely trigger an awarded compensatory draft pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The reason for Wentz's mid-season appearance does not simply revolve around what Wentz can bring to the Rams offense in terms of injury insurance and adequate depth. The strategy intended to hold mutual benefit to both sides. Wentz, before signing with the LA Rams, had been enjoying an annual salary far in excess of $20 million.

Undoubtedly, he would love to return to those hefty paychecks. In 2023, the best option to do so was to climb aboard the LA Rams roster and hope for a chance to showcase his talents. Well, the spotlight will be on Carson Wentz in Week 18, and if he can somehow engineer a win for the season finale, he will undoubtedly attract some significant offers from two or more NFL teams.

While that may derail the LA Rams plans for the quarterback room going forward, an awarded compensatory draft pick in 2025 is always welcome.