The Los Angeles Rams are being touted as an ideal destination for quarterback Daniel Jones in free agency. Reports have surfaced suggesting that Jones, who was released by the New York Giants from his $160 million contract in November and briefly joined the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad, could benefit from joining the Rams. Despite not playing in Minnesota, his physical abilities and past success, such as leading the Giants to the playoffs in 2022, make him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking quarterback depth.
Analyst Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report highlights that Jones could follow a similar developmental path to Sam Darnold, who spent time as a backup with the San Francisco 49ers before revitalizing his career. Knox believes learning under Rams head coach Sean McVay could provide Jones with the ideal environment for growth, given McVay’s reputation as one of the NFL’s most innovative offensive minds. The Rams are in need of a veteran backup, especially with the possibility of Jimmy Garoppolo leaving in free agency.
Jones has expressed appreciation for the culture established by Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, who previously worked with McVay. This connection could make transitioning to the Rams a logical step for Jones. Knox points to Baker Mayfield’s brief stint with the Rams in 2022 as a success story, as Mayfield’s time with McVay helped him rejuvenate his career before moving on to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
However, the Vikings already have J.J. McCarthy, their 2024 first-round draft pick, who is expected to return from injury in the spring. This competition could influence Jones’s decision about whether to stay in Minnesota or seek opportunities elsewhere.
Meanwhile, the Rams face uncertainty regarding their quarterback situation. Matthew Stafford’s future with the team remains unclear, and his comments following the Rams’ final game of the season suggest he needs time to decide his next steps. The Rams hold the 26th overall pick in the 2025 draft, but Stafford’s decision could significantly shape their offseason plans.
If Stafford departs, the Rams will need to explore their options, including Jones. While it’s uncertain whether Jones could ultimately replace Stafford, his potential arrival in Los Angeles would at least provide the team with depth and the chance to develop under McVay’s guidance. For now, the Rams await clarity on Stafford’s status before fully committing to a new quarterback plan.