The Rams added Carson Wentz, what does it mean for the rest of the roster, including Matthew Stafford?
Things were quiet at the trade deadline for the Los Angles Rams, but just one week later, the roster moves are back with a vengeance and the big move was acquiring free agent quarterback Carson Wentz. The cause and effect of putting that deal together shook up both the active and practice squad rosters with a flurry of accompanying moves.
Although the Rams were definitely in need of a better backup, the Wentz addition asks as many questions as it answers.
Is Matthew Stafford’s injury worse than the Rams are letting on? Will it be a competition at QB? What are long term ramifications, if any? Is there a rift between Sean McVay and staff? There’s a myriad of possible scenarios, limited only by fans imagination.
Currently L.A. has 51 of 53 (including Wentz) active roster spots filled and 15 of 16 practice squad roles taken. The Rams have one player designated for return from the Injured Reserve List and over the next few weeks will have as many as four players ready for the return designation.
How much could the roster continue to change?
Newest additions to the active roster
QB Carson Wentz
Ironically, Wentz and the Rams have previously crossed paths twice before with major implications, Back in 2016 it was the “Goff or Wentz” debate as to who would go as the Number 1 draft pick. The Rams paid a small fortune to get that top pick and selected Goff, Wentz had to “settle” for being the second player taken.
18 months later, with both teams playoffs bound, L.A. traveled to Philly. Late in the third quarter, Wentz dropped back to pass from inside the Rams five, with good coverage, he broke the pocket towards the end zone. Mark Barron came flying in and hit the big QB hard low, while Morgan Fox flew in high. Wentz’ leg whipped hard against Fox and tore the ACL in his knee. Wentz was out for the rest of the season and the Eagles went on to win the Super Bowl.
At his best, the seven-year vet can carry a team with his arm, extend plays with his athleticism, and/or break the pocket and run. On the negative side, his big arm can be a scatter gun an he tries to force the ball at times. He’s a career 63% passer averaging about 3100 yards passing per season, with the potential to add another 200 rushing.
