Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay has not publicly declared who will serve as Matthew Stafford's primary backup quarterback, but his approach to preseason games and practice reps indicates that Stetson Bennett IV is currently ahead of rookie Ty Simpson in the competition.
McVay has stated that no decision has been made and that the competition is ongoing. However, observations from preseason games and recent practice sessions suggest a leaning towards Bennett. Bennett has started both of the Rams' preseason games, and on a recent Monday, he received more second-team practice repetitions than Simpson. When asked if Bennett would play in the upcoming game against the Chargers, McVay was noncommittal, but he confirmed Simpson would play, a distinction that offered a potential clue to the coaching staff's thinking.
Historically, McVay has protected quarterbacks he intends to rely on during the regular season, with Stafford and former backup Jimmy Garoppolo seeing limited preseason action. This season marks a shift due to Garoppolo's departure, creating a more direct competition between Bennett, entering his fourth NFL season, and Simpson, the Rams' first-round draft pick in April.
Simpson impressed in his preseason debut against the Kansas City Chiefs, completing 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns. Bennett responded with a strong first half in the team's second preseason game against the New Orleans Saints, completing 19 of 31 passes for 181 yards and rushing for two touchdowns. He also demonstrated poise under pressure, delivering a notable off-balance completion on fourth down.
Despite Simpson's performance, McVay has acknowledged Bennett's command and conviction when operating with the first-team offense during Stafford's rest days. The Rams are not only assessing future potential but also determining which quarterback they would trust to step in if Stafford were to be injured during a game that counts.
While McVay remains reserved in his public statements, his strategic decisions on the field and during practice appear to be pointing toward Bennett as the leading candidate for the backup quarterback role.