[Dare]

QBs need time and most of all the proper environment to develop properly. Is it a coincidence that people who called Goff a bust aren't saying that now? Or that former bust Darnold is having a career year with ex-Ram coaches O'Connell and Wes Phillips?

IMO Darnold could step in and play well his first season in LA because the system is similar. Goff simply needed a coach willing to play to his strengths. McVay refused to tailor his system to fit the QB he had. Darnold already is having success in a similar system run by former Ram coaches. You don't think O'Connell and Phillips don't talk to McVay?

If there is a QB out there that isn't an unknown quantity it's Darnold. He's a far smaller risk than drafting a QB and trying to develop the kid. Look how fast Stafford had success. Darnold offers the same kind of seamless transition.

I don't think you can discount the value of proven success in a similar system. I love Stafford and what he has brought to LA. But he's closer to the end than the beginning of his career. They are having to play him differently, i.e. out of his comfort zone because as good as this OL is, no OL can protect a QB that struggles to move other than as part of a planned roll out.

The proof is what we saw on Sunday. Imagine if the Ram's QB could move as needed. Wow what a concept huh? Darnold is a QB with a strong accurate arm who plays from the pocket and yet is able to move when he must.

The current Ram OL is the best they have had in a long time. But it isn't perfect, no OL is. They have a young team, don't you think they should have a QB that will grow with them not out of them? I realize I'm in the minority but I think when it comes to players in the NFL better a year early than a year too late.

[AltiTude Ram]

I just find it hard to believe that you think Darnold is a better option than Stafford. You might possibly be the only person on the planet (Other than Darnold Family Members) that has that opinion.

I get the age thing and Stafford is for sure closer to the end than the beginning of his career. That being said, the talent level isn't even close. I don't care that he's being coached by former Rams coaches or the fact he's got Justin Jefferson to throw to. He's not on the same level as Stafford.

Again, when you have a QB playing at that level you don't kick him to the curb based on maybe's or could happen.

Until its proven Stafford doesn't have it anymore, like Peyton or Rodgers is trending towards, you stick with the better player and better talent.

[ramsman34]

Yep, you keep re-upping Stafford until he tells you he’s done or his play tells you he’s in decline. Don’t see either of those scenarios in 2025.

[PARAM]

Yep, you keep re-upping Stafford until he tells you he’s done or his play tells you he’s in decline. Don’t see either of those scenarios in 2025.

Here's the rub. Stafford was traded for and gladly came to the Rams from a loser franchise. He was given tools and won a Superbowl. In other words, his gold jacket was provided to him via that trade and subsequent Superbowl. I'm sure....100% positive....he and McVay are tight and should he decide he wants to retire, McVay will know long before the rest of us. I'm also sure he's currently playing at an elite level, far beyond what any available QB can provide. Sam Darnold? Not even close. He's looked real good under McConnell with Jefferson and Addison.....for 3/4's of a season. He looked shitty for 3 years with the Jets and 2 years with the Panthers, then like a good teammate as a backup in SF. 1 year (or 3/4's) does not a franchise QB make. Fagettaboutit!!!

[rams74]

Yep, you keep re-upping Stafford until he tells you he’s done or his play tells you he’s in decline. Don’t see either of those scenarios in 2025.

Even a Stafford in decline is better than most. Certainly better than Darnold.

[Elvis]

I agree with everyone on Stafford, still the Rams have been pretty cautious with him contract wise. They'll have to address his contract one way or another...

[PARAM]

Here's how the "declining" Stafford is fairing this year. And keep in mind, Kupp and Puka and OL have missed time.

Passing yards: 3303 (5th in NFL) in 2021 #3
Passing TDs: 19 (10th in the NFL)**** in 2021 #2
Comp %: 66.7 (16th in the NFL)*** in 2021 #11
Attempts: 439 (5th in the NFL) in 2021 #8
Completions: 293 (5th in the NFL) in 2021 #7

***6 of the 15 guys ahead of him in comp% have losing records in 2024. So he's a smart vet who's not afraid to throw it away? But anyway, how much has he declined from the Super Bowl year? ****He had 3 TD passes (and 4 Int) in the first 6 games (with the injuries to the WRs and OL). In the last 7 games he has 16 TDs and 3 picks (hasn't thrown one in the last 4 games 10-0).