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This holiday season, the Los Angeles Rams are once again in a charitable mood.
With Matthew Stafford’s status (thumb injury) still uncertain and backup quarterback Brett Rypien playing poorly in a Week 9 loss at Green Bay, the Rams have signed veteran free agent Carson Wentz.
Wentz last saw the field in Week 17 of last season with the Washington Commanders. With their season on the line, Wentz threw three interceptions in a 24-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns, a game most remembered for head coach Ron Rivera’s postgame shock upon being told his team would be eliminated from playoff contention.
Los Angeles’ acquisition of Wentz is reminiscent of a similar transaction late last season. With Stafford being placed on injured reserve in Week 13, the Rams claimed Baker Mayfield off waivers. Mayfield lost five of his six starts with the Carolina Panthers in 2022 before being released, and his NFL future appeared in doubt.
But the Rams threw Mayfield a life raft and he rewarded them with a thrilling comeback performance in a Week 14 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Even Al Michaels couldn’t help but raise his voice.
Two weeks later, Mayfield lit up the Denver Broncos with 230 passing yards and two touchdowns in a 51-14 Christmas Day rout. His performance earned him Nickelodeon’s Most Valuable Player award.
Mayfield’s efficiency in his brief stint with the Rams gave him a second chance in the NFL. He’s now the starting quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Mayfield has been solid through eight games despite the Bucs’ 3-5 record, throwing 12 touchdown passes to just four interceptions.
Unlike Mayfield last year, Wentz has had a significant gap in playing time. It’s been over 10 months since his last game. His star has fallen as quickly as possible after showing signs of brilliance in Philadelphia and Indianapolis. The Rams are on their bye in Week 10, but if Stafford still can’t go for their Week 11 game against Seattle, Wentz will get his shot. He hopes to get the same career kickstart Mayfield got last season in similar circumstances.
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