Could the Rams be a surprise team that drafts a QB? CBS Sports thinks so

USA Today

22-04-2025

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one of the biggest questions ahead of Thursday Night is which teams might unexpectedly dip into the quarterback class. CBS Sports' Josh Edwards and Ryan Wilson have their eyes on the Los Angeles Rams.
While the Rams are undoubtedly committed to Matthew Stafford, who restructured his contract back in February, both analysts suggest that L.A. could quietly be preparing for life after their veteran signal-caller. Stafford, who is 37, still has plenty of gas in the tank, but the need to secure a successor is becoming harder to ignore.
Sean McVay admitted that he hasn't done a lot of work on this QB class, but for as much as we talk about Shedeur Sanders to the Steelers, the Rams would be a better fit. Better weather, better offense and McVay calling plays. Of course, I could see Kyle McCord having a lot of success in this offense, too, if the Rams decided to wait until after Day 1 to target a QB to serve as Matthew Stafford's eventual replacement when he retires. - Ryan Wilson
The Rams hold the No. 26 pick in the first round — which will be just their second opening-round selection since taking Jared Goff No. 1 overall in 2016. With Stafford nearing the end of his career, using that pick to draft his successor could be a wise long-term move. However, unlike last year's class, which featured six quarterbacks taken in the first round, this year's group lacks the same top-end depth. Still, names like Cam Ward — a projected top pick — and Shedeur Sanders, who's expected to go early, headline the class. Meanwhile, Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart has gained first-round buzz in several mock drafts and could be a name to watch at No. 26.
If the question is strictly related to the first round, then it is the Rams. It is unlikely that Las Vegas or Seattle will target the position after moves made this offseason and the Saints, Steelers hardly qualify as a surprise. If the question extends into Day 2, then the Buccaneers and Dolphins could come into play. - Josh Edwards
Stafford led the Rams to a Super Bowl title in 2021 and had the team close to another NFC Championship run in 2024. But as durable and talented as he's been the past two seasons, the clock is ticking. A move to draft and groom his replacement could keep the Rams competitive without missing a beat when Stafford eventually steps away. On the other end, the Rams, seeing as they field a roster that has been postseason-bound the last two years, could end up addressing a greater need at the moment, particularly in the secondary or at linebacker to keep the present roster competitive.
However, with McVay's offensive system and a supportive environment, Los Angeles might just be the best place for a young QB to develop.
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