Teddy Bridgewater informed the Detroit Lions that he plans to step away from the team and will likely retire, according to a report from ESPN’s Ian Rapoport. This abrupt opening creates a void behind Jared Goff—one that is important and must be filled for a playoff hopeful.
Could the Los Angeles Rams be a trade partner that could help Brad Holmes and the Lions patch things back together quickly?
Stetson Bennett is battling with first-round rookie Ty Simpson to become the primary backup to Matthew Stafford.
Reports from practice indicate that Bennett has taken a significant step forward in his fourth training camp, although the wheels have seemingly come off in recent days and turnovers have ratcheted up.
We know that Simpson will play in the preseason. Whether Bennett takes the field remains to be seen. Sean McVay continues to mull over the decision. Not playing would be a ringing endorsement that Bennett has won the backup job; however, the fact that McVay does not find his decision easily made is also telling.
The backup quarterback competition may still be in flux. Simpson has displayed his strong processing and decision-making skills. His arm is proving to be more talented than he received credit for over the draft process. The only advantage Bennett has over the rookie is time—and that competitive edge is soon to fade.
So if McVay’s decision between the two players is even close at all, why not move Bennett in exchange for draft capital? The Rams are running low on future picks because of their recent veteran trade acquisitions. It’s a way to restock the cupboard and creating a path to playing time for a young player that has probably earned it.
But Bennett does have value for the Rams. Simpson should not play until he’s absolutely ready. Bennett’s presence is a way to insulated the rookie from stepping onto the field too soon. A mid or late round draft pick is not worth the potential downside of playing Simpson prematurely and cratering his confidence.
The Lions need another quarterback behind Jared Goff. The Rams are uniquely positioned to help them out, and the two teams have a history of collaboration through trade. These are dots worth connecting and keeping an eye on over the coming weeks.
Could Stetson Bennett soon find himself in Detroit?
