3 backup QB options for Rams if Jimmy Garoppolo retires from NFL

He's under contract on his rookie deal for the next two seasons, so the Rams could pick up Rattler and have him for more than just one season.

He threw for 1,586 yards this past season with eight touchdowns in nine games and eight starts. While he might not have the highest upside, he's someone worth considering for the Rams as a readily available trade candidate who could be around for two years.

2. Anthony Richardson, Colts

With the Indianapolis Colts looking for a trade with Anthony Richardson, their former fourth-overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Rams could take this chance to pounce on a high-upside quarterback.

More: Anthony Richardson would be perfect trade target for Rams to develop behind Matthew Stafford

There is a lot of risk involved with Richardson, but his rushing upside and his rocket for an arm, along with great coaching from Sean McVay and tutelage from Stafford, could make Richardson in L.A. a very intriguing fit.

There's a lot more uncertainty with Richardson, and the floor would be a lot lower than other backup QB options. But the ceiling would be incredibly high, and could make for a fun option in 2027 if the Rams like what they see in 2026.

3. Russell Wilson, Free agent

Lastly, if the Rams don't want to go out and splurge in a trade for a quarterback, they could go after the best free agent not named Aaron Rodgers, in Russell Wilson.

Tyrod Taylor, Cooper Rush, and Teddy Bridgewater are the other high-profile free agent quarterbacks. Those aren't great options.

But Wilson might be the best bet for the Rams if they're looking for a high-upside starter in case of an emergency in free agency. He's not the flashiest or most exciting, but the Rams definitely could do worse at backup QB.

What Rams should actually do

With a need at backup quarterback, and Garoppolo considering retirement, the Rams should look to add someone who has some experience starting games in the NFL.

Wilson might not be a bad pickup in theory, but his struggles with the New York Giants last year are concerning. Instead, a trade for a backup should be in the cards for the Rams.

Rattler is someone the team should seriously consider. He's on his rookie deal for the next two seasons as a 2024 draft pick, which would help make up for the trade compensation the Rams send to the Saints in a potential deal.

He had some nice throws for New Orleans last year, and in a better offense, he could win a game or two if Stafford were to go down. Add in the extra year of control, and Rattler is someone who makes a ton of sense for the Rams if Garoppolo does retire.

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