Even as the LA Rams draft board is set up, and likely includes a number of options for the quarterback position in a number of rounds, I believe that the Rams will give serious consideration to adding a veteran quarterback for the 2024 NFL season.
After all, the Rams are very likely planning to compete in Super Bowl LIX, and the contribution of a rookie quarterback in that type of scenario is limited.
But the decision is not just dependant upon a quarterback’s experience, risk assessment, projected production, or even fit in the team’s culture.
A significant factor that decides whether or not a player is feasible is their availability.
Sam Darnold, Jameis Winston, Gardner Minshew, Carson Wentz, and Jake Browning are projected to become NFL free agents this offseason.
But Zach Wilson remains under contract with the New York Jets, and Trey Lance remains under contract with the Dallas Cowboys, meaning that any hopes to acquire either player adds an additional step and cost of a trade with their respective teams.
Here is a list of quarterbacks discussed in this article, and a summary of their 2023 statistics for easy reference.
While the range of their roles and playing time varies a great deal, keep in mind that the LA Rams front office wants to ensure that a backup can start and play effectively in this offense for what may be a prolonged period of time.
But the front office must balance that with a need not to over-invest in a position that may only be a temporary bridge until the team does eventually draft the future franchise quarterback.
Do any jump off the page at you? For my money’s worth, I would rank the free agent (or trade) options for the team as follows.