Rams Rumors: McVay 'Really Likes' Jimmy Garoppolo amid Matthew Stafford Trade Buzz

With Matthew Stafford's future with the Los Angeles Rams in question, head coach Sean McVay reportedly has an affinity for backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo.

According to Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic, McVay "really likes" Garoppolo due to the veteran passer's "amiability, work ethic and understanding of the offense."

Rodrigue noted that if Los Angeles turned to Garoppolo, he'd be viewed as a "bridge" to the team's next franchise quarterback.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported Sunday that the Rams have a "strong interest" in bringing back Stafford on a restructured contract, but he'll also have a "strong trade market" if both sides can't reach an agreement.

Stafford has a $49.7 million cap hit for the 2025 season and a $53.7 million cap hit in 2026, via Spotrac.

As for Garoppolo, he signed a one-year deal with Los Angeles as a free agent in 2024 and spent the ensuing season as a depth option.

The 33-year-old doesn't have any Pro Bowl selections under his belt, but he's shown that he can operate as the starting quarterback on a playoff team.

In 64 career starts, Garoppolo owns a 43-21 record.

McVay has a "preference" for veteran experience under center, per Rodrigue.

It's easy to see why he may not trust a rookie quarterback to immediately contribute on a team that has made playoff appearances in four of the past five seasons, including a Super Bowl LVI victory.

If the Rams decide to explore deals involving Stafford, Garoppolo could be McVay's pick to replace him.