The Los Angeles Rams got two pieces of incredible news during the NFL Honors award show. First, Matthew Stafford won MVP, a much-deserved accolade for the future Hall of Famer.

But then, during his acceptance speech, Stafford revealed that he is going to come back for the 2026 season. The Rams won’t be in dire need of a new QB for 2026. But that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t seriously explore backup options.

ESPN’s Ben Solak linked the Rams to four options, one of which was a very fascinating one in electrifying Indianapolis Colts quarterback, and former 4th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Anthony Richardson.

Rams linked to trade for Anthony Richardson to back up Matthew Stafford

“The Rams’ only youth at quarterback is No. 3 QB Stetson Bennett IV, and as such, they should strongly pursue young backups this offseason,” Solak writes. “Will Levis is a great fit, as is Tanner McKee. But I’d wager McVay wants more playmaking at the position, so watch out for Anthony Richardson and Spencer Rattler as well.”

Of these four options for some youth at the backup quarterback position, the most exciting one for the Rams would very obviously be Richardson.

McKee isn’t a playmaker, Levis has too many lowlights, and Rattler doesn’t have nearly the high upside as someone like Richardson.

The Colts quarterback was benched for Daniel Jones this past season, and it was the right choice. Jones and the Colts were playing great, and while they collapsed to end the year, Jones was clearly the right pick.

Richardson is only 23 years old and has one year left on his rookie deal. He could get the fifth-year option as well.

In theory, could get Richardson as depth for the 2026 season and have him ready to take over, or at least compete for the starting job in 2027.

More: Rams GM teases all-in offseason if Matthew Stafford returns to L.A.

Richardson has one of the most electrifying arms in the NFL and can throw it about as far as any QB can in the league. He’s gone 8-7 in his 15 career starts with 2,400 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions.

He’s also a good runner, carrying the ball 115 times for 634 yards and 10 touchdowns. But his 50.6% completion rate is well below average, and he needs to improve to be an NFL starter.

Coming to the Rams, backing up Stafford for a year and learning under Sean McVay, could be exactly what the 4th overall pick needs.

Richardson would be the most fun backup quarterback option for the Rams in 2026. He won’t threaten the starting lineup for the Rams and would be used strictly as a backup.

With the Colts trading their 2026 first-round pick to the New York Jets, they could use some extra draft capital. Thanks to the Rams owning two first-rounders, their picks later in the draft aren’t as valuable to them.

A Day 3 pick might be enough for Richardson, as the young quarterback has shown promise, but too many lowlights should make his cost a bit more reasonable.

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