By Sunday 
Exploring a Low-Cost, High-Upside Option for Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Rams are facing a pivotal decision at quarterback. With Matthew Stafford’s future uncertain beyond 2025, the team must prepare for a potential transition. Whether Stafford returns on a new contract or the Rams decide to move on, it’s time to start thinking ahead.
While the NFL Draft presents one route, the Rams lack a second-round pick, making it harder to secure a top-tier prospect. Instead, a more viable solution could be acquiring a veteran with upside. One intriguing option? Cincinnati Bengals backup Jake Browning.
Jake Browning: A Surprising Candidate with Untapped Potential
Browning, who re-signed with the Bengals last offseason, is under contract for just over $1 million in 2025. At 30 years old and with limited NFL experience, he might not seem like a high-ceiling option at first glance. However, his 2023 campaign suggests otherwise.
When Joe Burrow suffered an injury, Browning stepped in and exceeded expectations. In just seven starts, he completed 70.3% of his passes for 1,936 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. He also contributed 127 rushing yards and three scores on the ground. Projected over a full season, that production would translate to over 4,500 passing yards and 26 touchdowns—numbers that could keep an offense competitive.
Advanced Metrics Suggest Legitimate Starting Talent
Browning’s analytics further reinforce his potential. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), he earned an offensive grade of 79.3, ranking 16th among quarterbacks with at least 169 dropbacks. More impressively, his rushing grade (87.8) trailed only Brock Purdy, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Patrick Mahomes.
However, there are concerns. Browning struggled with turnover-worthy plays, recording 11 in his seven starts. Additionally, his average depth of target (ADOT) was the lowest among quarterbacks with similar playing time, indicating a more conservative approach.
Why the Rams Should Consider Trading for Browning
Despite some flaws, Browning presents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. With Stafford turning 37 and carrying an injury history, the Rams need a capable backup who can step in if needed. Browning also has experience in a McVay-style system, having played under Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, a former Rams assistant.
If Los Angeles is serious about maintaining long-term stability at quarterback, exploring a trade for Browning makes sense. He may not be a superstar, but he’s shown enough to warrant consideration as either a backup or a bridge option for the post-Stafford era.
At the very least, the Rams should keep their options open—and Browning should be on their radar.