Why Jimmy Garoppolo would be an ideal bridge QB after Matthew Stafford
· Yahoo Sports
During the Los Angeles Rams' 2025 training camp, star quarterback Matthew Stafford was a notable absence. Stafford, who was dealing with back issues at the time, would miss all of camp before finally getting healthy a few weeks ahead of the season opener.
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Stafford had an incredible year, the best of his career, earning his first MVP award. One of the critical factors that allowed a smooth transition for Stafford back into the starting lineup was Jimmy Garoppolo. Garoppolo guided the Rams offense throughout camp and through two joint practices. After another year in the Sean McVay system, there is an evident truth. Garoppolo deserves to be the starter once Stafford retires. Here's why.
Garoppolo can win if he is allowed to play his game
One of my biggest misses coming into the 2025 season was my opinion on Sam Darnold. He was brilliant and he will forever be a champion because he did what many, including myself, thought he couldn't. That was to protect the football and deliver the proper throw in the proper moments. That's because he was in an offensive system that played to his strengths.
Garoppolo is that same guy, albeit older. Why? Because I witnessed it firsthand all throughout camp. Yes, there were some misses and some bad decisions. That's who Garoppolo is. But when the Rams adopt more Shanahan principles in their offense – greater use of the run, multiple tight end formations, play action from under center – Garoppolo has been incredible.
It's not production that's going to win an MVP, but it does answer the one question great defenses often get wrong. After losing a star quarterback, what do you do? Think about the 2015 Denver Broncos. They had no succession plan after Peyton Manning retired and wasted a championship-caliber defense.
You can't replace Stafford, but you can find ways to win with Garoppolo. Kyren Williams is a 1,000-yard running back. Blake Corum looks like a burgeoning star. Puka Nacua is one of the league's best. The offensive line has no question marks. Terrance Ferguson is going to revolutionize the offense.
If the Rams change their offensive approach and their defense is as good as advertised, Garoppolo keeps the Rams competitive, while they prepare a long-term option. Thus, the Rams should consider offering Garoppolo the starter-in-waiting backup role. If Garoppolo is willing to take a hometown discount, he could have a better roster than Stafford ever had. Everyone wins.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Jimmy Garoppolo would be ideal bridge QB for Rams after Stafford