The Rams experienced a comprehensive defeat on all fronts – offense, defense, and special teams – as they fell to the Dallas Cowboys on the road, with a final score of 43-20. Meanwhile, the Chargers asserted their dominance by scoring on their initial five possessions and securing a convincing 30-13 win against the visiting Chicago Bears. Following the games, Los Angeles Times Rams beat writer Gary Klein, Chargers beat writer Jeff Miller, and NFL columnist Sam Farmer gathered for a post-game round-table discussion to analyze the events and contemplate future prospects.
Given the Rams’ current record of 3-5 and the impending trade deadline, it might appear that they are more inclined to trade rather than acquire players. However, there seem to be few assets available for trading, except for Aaron Donald, which is highly unlikely. Is there something we’re overlooking?
Farmer: It might be premature to contemplate a fire sale, particularly without knowledge of the severity of Matthew Stafford’s thumb injury. This season has seen many teams with varying levels of performance, and some of them could still make it to the playoffs. There are players, apart from Aaron Donald, who hold some trade value, such as Tyler Higbee and Joe Noteboom. Nevertheless, I wouldn’t anticipate the Rams making numerous deals, if any.
Klein: The Rams didn’t have intentions to be active in the trade market at this deadline. It’s possible that other teams could express interest in offensive lineman Joe Noteboom, who received a substantial contract last season to play left tackle but has since assumed a versatile but relatively costly role, starting at both tackle positions and right guard. In the absence of the injured Rob Havenstein, Noteboom started at right tackle on Sunday. Hence, the Rams might need to retain him even if they considered trading him.
Is there any information available on rookie quarterback Stetson Bennett? It doesn’t seem likely that he’ll be of assistance this season, and he hasn’t had the opportunity to develop on the field. Do you believe the Rams will need to sign another quarterback this week due to Matthew Stafford’s thumb injury?
Klein: Stetson Bennett remains on the non-injury football list, and his return this season appears improbable. In the event of Stafford’s absence, Brett Rypien is expected to start against the Packers. Regardless, the Rams are likely to sign another quarterback, possibly before this roundtable discussion is published. It’s worth noting that any conversation involving Sean McVay and quarterbacks inevitably involves mentioning Colt McCoy.
(Editor’s note: McVay confirmed Klein’s thoughts on Bennett’s status at Monday’s media conference. “I’m not ready to say that he won’t be back with us at all this year, but it’s probably less likely than it is likely he would be,” said the Rams coach.)
Farmer: Yes, the Rams will need to acquire a quarterback, but the available options are at best “just a guy.” Moreover, the Rams aren’t the only team in search of quarterback assistance, as the Vikings recently lost Kirk Cousins. Mike LaFleur, the Rams’ offensive coordinator, has prior experience with Joe Flacco during their time with the New York Jets. However, at 38, Flacco is, as you might have guessed, just an average option.