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Rams snag a high-end Matthew Stafford replacement in 2024 NFL Mock Draft

The Rams will face a difficult decision this offseason with veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford. His contract ties Stafford to LA for at least another season, but that doesn’t mean he will be QB1. In today’s mock draft, J.J. McCarthy becomes “the guy”.

By Hunter Haas

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy runs the offense against Purdue during the second half of
Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy runs the offense against Purdue during the second half of / Kirthmon F. Dozier / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Round 1, Pick 6 — J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

For my money, Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward currently rank ahead of J.J. McCarthy on my Big Board. However, this mock draft is not a “what Hunter Haas would do” exercise. Instead, the approach is more predictive, attempting to guess how the actual 2024 NFL Draft will play out.

According to several plugged-in scouts, McCarthy is steadily climbing draft boards around the league. The Michigan signal-caller has shown remarkable growth this season, flexing quicker progressions and more creativeness outside of structure. Adding his already impressive arm strength and elite athleticism, it’s easy to see the allure.

Can Sean McVay Get The Most Out Of McCarthy?

As for the Rams, there is arguably no better landing spot for a rookie quarterback. Head coach Sean McVay is widely considered an offensive guru, while Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua form a lethal pass-catching duo in Los Angeles. If the Stafford era really is ending, don’t be surprised if J.J. McCarthy steps in as the replacement.

The ability to learn behind Stafford for a season is another selling point for the Rams. McCarthy’s best plays are as good as any of his peers. It will come down to McVay engineering a system that gives the youngster the best chance to utilize his elite physical traits most effectively.

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