Sean McVay evaluates the growth of Stetson Bennett, Jimmy Garoppolo as backups

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay was impressed with what he saw from backup quarterbacks Stetson Bennett and Jimmy Garoppolo during offseason workouts. While speaking to reporters in June, McVay shared his assessment of the two QBs as they get ready for training camp.

“They’ve done a really good job. I think Dave Ragone’s leadership from that room has really been on display,” McVay said. “I’ve known Dave for a long time, but seeing the way he commands the room, the clarity, the way that he’s with them every step of the way and how much they trust him and he’s got the credibility from as a player.”

McVay first shared how Garoppolo has done after joining the team in March. “Jimmy’s been outstanding. I’ve always had tremendous respect for Jimmy from afar,” he said. “Seeing him up close, the consistency at which he approaches every single day, the way that he works, and then how that translated to a lot of really good days.”

McVay then showed praise to Bennett who was drafted by the Rams last year. “There was some opportunities where Stetson came in, was really pleased with his overall improvement,” he explained. His command, his attention in the meetings, and then when he got his opportunities whether it was in some seven-on-seven or even in some of the team periods, they’re taking steps in the right direction. Been really pleased with both those guys.

More on Stetson Bennett and Jimmy Garoppolo

Bennett was set to be the top backup QB for Matthew Stafford last year. However, the former Georgia Bulldogs QB was placed on the reserve/non-football illness list on Sept. 13 of last year and did not see any action during the 2023 season. Bennett returned to the team this year and will participate in training camp.

“Love football, excited to come out here every single day,” Bennett said while speaking to reporters in May. “You get to see the world for the first time without football, like the first time ever. What that might be like, you just don’t have it. You come out here and you’re hungry every single day. …It was different without it.”

Garoppolo signed a one-year contract with the Rams after being released by the Las Vegas Raiders. He has been in the NFL since 2014 and won two Super Bowls with the New England Patriots as a backup QB for Tom Brady. Garoppolo also spent time with the San Francisco 49ers and led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2019.