Rams weigh Cousins, Garoppolo for backup QB role

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said Monday the team is assessing veteran quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Jimmy Garoppolo as options for its backup role. McVay addressed the situation during the league meeting in Arizona, describing the club’s intent to add another quarterback to the roster.

 

As of Monday, the Rams list Stetson Bennett as the only backup behind starting quarterback Matthew Stafford. McVay said the team plans to bring in an additional player, but the organization has not set a timetable for when a decision will be made.

 

McVay indicated he has a preference for Garoppolo, noting that Garoppolo has filled the backup job for the past two seasons. At the same time, he described Cousins as an attractive alternative, signaling that the Rams are keeping multiple paths open as they evaluate how to structure the quarterback depth chart behind Stafford.

 

Garoppolo is currently weighing his next move, according to the information McVay discussed. Previous talks between Garoppolo and the Arizona Cardinals did not lead to a contract, leaving him available as the Rams consider their options.

 

McVay also pointed to a personal connection with Cousins, saying Cousins had a meaningful impact on his career. That relationship dates back to their time together in Washington a decade ago, a factor McVay raised while explaining why Cousins remains on the Rams’ radar for the backup position.

 

Both Cousins and Garoppolo are free agents, meaning the Rams can negotiate and finalize an agreement at any time. McVay did not outline specific next steps beyond confirming the evaluation process and the team’s intention to add another quarterback to support Stafford and provide depth for the season.

 

For the Rams, the decision centers on stabilizing the position behind Stafford while maintaining roster flexibility. With no timeline announced, the club’s approach leaves room for continued discussions as the market for veteran quarterbacks develops and as available players weigh competing opportunities.