The Los Angeles Rams' upcoming preseason game against the New Orleans Saints carries significant weight for players vying for final roster spots, particularly in the competition for the backup quarterback position. With veteran Jimmy Garoppolo no longer providing security, the role behind starting quarterback Matthew Stafford is up for grabs between Stetson Bennett and rookie Ty Simpson.
While Bennett entered training camp with an advantage in practice repetitions, Simpson made a strong case in the Rams' first preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Simpson completed 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating accuracy and composure. This performance has led to a more even distribution of second-team snaps, with Bennett and Simpson splitting opportunities during joint practices with the Saints.
Rams coach Sean McVay emphasized the importance of giving both quarterbacks a fair chance to run the offense. "I think it is important to be able to get a fair opportunity for those guys to run the offense with enough snaps," McVay stated.
Bennett, 28, has yet to throw a regular-season NFL pass, but has experience in preseason games. Simpson, a first-round draft pick, is viewed as a potential future of the quarterback position for the Rams. McVay noted that "Stetson’s never played a live NFL game. He’s played a lot in the preseason, and so I think you want to get a consistent body of work for him to be able to run our offense. Looking at last week, Ty did a great job. Stetson did what he could."
Bennett is expected to start the game against the Saints and receive more playing time than he did in the previous game, with both quarterbacks anticipated to get opportunities to solidify their standing.
Beyond the quarterback battle, numerous other players are using the preseason finale as a crucial audition. Running backs Jarquez Hunter and Dean Connors are competing for a potential fourth spot on the depth chart, while Ronnie Rivers appears to have an edge for the third-string role. On the defensive side, second-year defensive tackle Ty Hamilton needs to impress along a crowded defensive front, and edge rushers Desjuan Johnson, Keir Thomas, and rookie Wesley Bailey are in a tight competition. Johnson recorded a sack in the previous game, but the team still requires further evaluation.
In the secondary, reserve defensive backs like Tanner Ingle are auditioning for both the active roster and the practice squad. The offensive line also faces uncertainty due to rookie Keagen Trost's hamstring injury. This situation could open opportunities for A.J. Arcuri, although veteran David Quessenberry has shown he can step in if Trost is not ready for the season opener. McVay expressed optimism about Quessenberry's readiness and the team's depth at tackle.
The Rams' second preseason game is scheduled for Saturday afternoon at SoFi Stadium.