This emergency QB list will have Rams fans begging Matt Stafford to play hurt

The Los Angeles Rams’ future with starting quarterback Matthew Stafford is getting murkier by the minute. While the team continues to express confidence that its current care plan is on track, the aftermath of his first attempt to pass a tolerance stress test went poorly. Head coach Sean McVay insists, “He could start right now if a game were scheduled,” but the reality on the field tells a different story.

Matthew Stafford is not in pads. He’s not on the football field. He’s not progressing. The conflict between what is being said and what is actually unfolding leans toward a less promising outcome. That sets the stage for CBS Sports writer Cody Benjamin, who has compiled a list of emergency quarterbacks for the front office to consider when the line is crossed, if it hasn’t been crossed already.

Don’t expect many promising candidates from the bunch. Only one is a free agent, and no NFL team is eager to help another out due to bad luck. For that matter, it’s unclear if the Rams even know whether they need a quarterback who can plug-and-play in this offense or simply one who can be ready on standby. With so much uncertainty, let’s dive right into the maelstrom.

5 suspect quarterback trade targets Rams pushed to explore

Atlanta Falcons: Kirk Cousins

QB Kirk Cousins has a history with McVay from their time with the Washington Commanders. It’s fair to assume he’d trade his current role backing up Michael Penix Jr. for a chance to start. However, he’s far too expensive to serve as an insurance policy, adding more than $100 million to the salary cap over the next three seasons. Worst of all, the Falcons would also require trade compensation.

Jacksonville Jaguars: John Wolford

While there’s solid familiarity with former backup quarterback John Wolford, his production in this offense lags behind Stetson Bennett’s. He knows the Rams system, but he’s under contract with the Jaguars, making him a costly addition. The smarter move is to wait for roster cuts to 53 players and sign the best of the released quarterbacks.

Cleveland Browns: Kenny Pickett

The Browns’ quarterback situation is a mess, and they’ll likely part ways with two or more before the 2025 season begins. They’re overloaded at the position, and it feels like every NFL writer has a “Rams trade for this Browns quarterback” piece ready to go. We’ve already seen a proposal for Shedeur Sanders, and now it’s Kenny Pickett. The Browns are the last team I’d shop with for quarterbacks, and Pickett doesn’t move the needle.

Los Angeles Chargers: Taylor Heineke

The team will almost certainly get a close-up look at Chargers QB Taylor Heineke. He’s been a nomad, carving out an NFL career as a backup. There’s nothing special about his game... just a hard-working QB with limited production. If the Rams were desperate, he’s at least a step up from pulling someone out of the maintenance department.

Free agent: Carson Wentz

The front office signed Carson Wentz in a similar emergency in 2023, and he did lead the junior varsity squad to a Week 18 win over the 49ers. He’s familiar with the team and personnel, but LA didn’t extend him, and his stint with the Chiefs in 2024 was rough. The upside is he’s a free agent, should come cheap, and has played well for the Rams before.

None of these QBs offers more value than the ones already under contract. In less than a month, the Rams will have a large pool of just-released quarterbacks to consider if depth becomes an issue. There’s also the option of signing UFL MVP Bryce Perkins, who has an extensive history with the team.

Whether too costly, too little impact, or both, this list feels like throwing mud at a wall to see what sticks. Not one would improve their chances this season, which makes the real question simple: Why bother? That’s the hurdle that remains insurmountable.

As always, thanks for reading.