The future of Matthew Stafford is already fueling discussions about the Los Angeles Rams, including speculation that they could be an ideal destination for former New York Giants quarterback.
Jones, who was released from a four-year, $160 million contract by the Giants in November, quickly joined the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad but didn’t see any playing time. His future in Minnesota remains uncertain.
“The Duke product has elite physical traits and helped lead New York to the postseason in 2022. However, to rejuvenate his career, Jones might need to develop further as a backup, similar to how [Sam] Darnold did with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023,” wrote Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report on January 22.
“While Jones could remain in Minnesota and continue learning under [Kevin] O’Connell, O’Connell himself trained under Rams head coach Sean McVay. Going directly to the source might be an even better opportunity for Jones.”
Knox views the Rams as the “best landing spot” for the quarterback.
“With Jimmy Garoppolo entering free agency, Los Angeles may look to add a veteran backup,” Knox noted. “Jones could step into that role while benefiting from one of the brightest offensive minds in football.”
Rams Could Be Good for Daniel Jones
Jones spoke openly about the culture O’Connell has cultivated with the Vikings, a culture influenced by O’Connell’s time working under McVay both before and during their tenure with the Rams.
This approach has proven successful in the past.
Knox highlights Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, who rejuvenated his career during a five-game stint with the Rams at the end of the 2022 season.
“Baker Mayfield’s brief collaboration with McVay is a case study for any quarterback aiming to revive their career,” Knox wrote. “That’s exactly what Mayfield managed to accomplish with Tampa Bay following his time in L.A.”
Jones might find a similar opportunity in Minnesota.
However, the Vikings also have their 2024 first-round draft pick, J.J. McCarthy. Although McCarthy missed his rookie season due to a torn meniscus, he’s expected to be fully recovered by the spring.
Ultimately, much will depend on how quickly Jones aims to return to a starting role after his time in New York. Several quarterback-needy teams may consider the former No. 6 overall pick from the 2019 draft.
Matthew Stafford Uncertain About Future
Stafford’s remarks about his future have left the Rams in a potentially uncertain situation. With Garoppolo available as a free agent at 33 years old and 2023 fourth-round pick Stetson Bennett still untested, the team faces critical decisions ahead.
The Rams hold the 26th overall pick in the 2025 draft, but Stafford’s decision could significantly shape their strategy moving forward. However, it remains unclear when the team will receive clarity on his plans.
Speaking to reporters on January 19, Stafford said, “I’ll talk about my present. I’m obviously proud to be a part of this group – the coaching staff, front office, players, training staff, equipment guys, everyone. It was an incredible effort all year to get to this point.
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“As for my future, it’s only 30 minutes after the last game, so I’ll need some time to think it over. But I feel like I was playing some good football. We got to where we wanted to be, had a chance, but didn’t get it done. I love competing, I love those moments, and I’m definitely not afraid of them. I gave it everything I had, even though it didn’t go the way I wanted. Next time I’m out there, let’s line it up and do it again.”
Separately, whether Jones could be the right successor to Stafford is an entirely different question for McVay and the Rams’ front office.
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