Stetson Bennett, a quarterback who has been strictly third-string and inactive for every single NFL game in his first three seasons, just took every rep with the Los Angeles Rams’ first-team offense on Sunday. This wasn’t some fluke; Rams coach Sean McVay started training camp by giving Bennett opportunities he’s never had before, treating him like a bona fide starter, all while rookie first-round pick Ty Simpson is biding his time as a third-stringer.
Bennett Gets His Shot While Stafford Rests Up
This unexpected shake-up is happening because the Rams are giving starting quarterback Matthew Stafford a scheduled rest day every other day during their initial four-day practice block. Stafford was off Sunday (Day 1) and will be again on Day 3, opening the door wide for Bennett. On Sunday, Bennett stepped up big, leading the first-team offense, while Simpson, the supposed future, was sliding into the backup role, working with the second team. Rams offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase isn’t surprised by Bennett’s drive, saying he appreciates his “competitiveness in all moments” and that guys rally around him because “he competes.” Scheelhaase noted this mentality has been Bennett’s “calling card since the jump,” only growing since he arrived in LA.
From Preseason Hero to Potential Backup?
Bennett’s journey has been wild, to say the least. After a “tumultuous rookie year” where he was inactive due to “mental health” reasons, he’s spent his entire NFL career as a third-stringer and a preseason workhorse. McVay, famous for protecting his top QBs, has given Bennett far more preseason snaps than the average player over the last two years. That time had its moments, with Bennett delivering “hero plays,” but it also saw him throw “way too many interceptions.” At one point, he threw seven picks between one touchdown and his next! Now, turning 29 in October, Bennett has a real chance to finally be active for an NFL game if he snags the backup job. It’s not a crazy idea either, considering Stafford has had backups like John Wolford and Bryce Perkins in the past. If the bar is Wolford, Bennett is definitely in the running, especially with Simpson still getting his feet wet with the 2s and Stu J.
The stakes are real for Bennett as this training camp unfolds. With Stafford set to take another rest day on Day 3, you know Bennett is going to get more shots to prove he can hang with the 1s. Everyone will be watching to see how he capitalizes on these chances and what this means for Ty Simpson’s development behind him. This QB competition is just getting started, and it’s gonna be a fun one to watch.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Turf Show Times.
Leave a Reply