Quarterbacks

Stetson Bennett (Rams) NFL Draft Preview

By Doug Burrell

Posted on March 27, 2023

Post-Draft Fantasy Outlook

The Los Angeles Rams selected Stetson Bennett in the fourth round. Bennett will begin the preseason as the third-string quarterback behind Matthew Stafford and Brett Rypien. Stafford struggled last season before going down with an injury. If Bennett can impress coaches during training camp, there is a chance he could start for the Rams if Stafford’s struggles continue. 

For fantasy football players, Bennett is worth a late-round flier in redraft leagues. He may not have an immediate impact, but if he does get the opportunity to start for the Rams, he could become a valuable player on your roster.

For dynasty league managers, Bennett’s potential is even more intriguing. With a clear path to becoming the Rams’ quarterback of the future, he should be drafted around the fourth round.

Stetson Bennett NFL Draft Preview

Stetson Bennett started his college career as a walk-on, then transferred to a junior college, and eventually made his way back to Georgia as a scholarship athlete, winning back-to-back national championships. Stetson Bennett is undersized for the quarterback position, but he makes up for it with his intelligence, athleticism, and accuracy.

Bennett was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy and won the Manning Award last season. Despite the accolades and throwing for over 4,000 yards, Bennett is projected as a backup quarterback drafted somewhere between the 5th and 7th rounds because of his size. 

Measurables

• 5″11 192 lbs
• Arm Length 28.875″
• Hand Size 10.0″

In what round will we see Stetson Bennett taken in the Draft? 🤔@StetsonIv | @GeorgiaFootball

📺: 2023 #NFLDraft — Starts Thursday, April 27 on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on NFL+ pic.twitter.com/rY3VzNFNB0

— NFL (@NFL) March 25, 2023

 Positives

One of Bennett’s greatest strengths is his ability to improvise and extend plays with his legs. He has a quick first step and the agility to evade defenders in the pocket, and he is not afraid to tuck the ball and run when the opportunity presents itself. 

He has a quick release and a strong arm, allowing him to make accurate throws on the run and fit the ball into tight windows. He has shown good accuracy on short and intermediate throws, and he does a good job of leading receivers and putting the ball in their hands.

Bennett is able to read defenses well. He rarely forces throws into tight coverage and is willing to check down to his running backs or tight ends when necessary.

He is a natural leader who commands the respect of his teammates. He has a strong work ethic and leads by example. He is vocal on the field and is able to motivate his teammates to perform at their best.

Stetson Bennett is throwing darts in Indy. He’s making some money today. pic.twitter.com/75Oga429Vk

— Graham Coffey (@DawgOutWest) March 4, 2023

Negatives

Bennett’s size is his most significant weakness, as he can struggle to see over the offensive line and identify open receivers downfield. 

He also has a tendency to force throws into coverage, leading to interceptions, and can be overly aggressive at times. 

Bennett lacks elite arm strength, which can limit his ability to make deep throws and fit the ball into tight spaces.

He can be too quick to leave the pocket and can struggle to navigate the pocket and find open receivers.

Grade B

Bennett’s prospects for the NFL are uncertain due to his lack of size and arm strength. However, his intelligence, accuracy, and mobility could make him a valuable backup quarterback who can come in and provide a change of pace or spark the offense. He might also be able to carve out a role as a gadget player or special teams contributor. Overall, Bennett will need to continue to develop his skills and refine his game to have a chance at a successful NFL career, but his potential makes him an intriguing prospect for teams looking for a versatile and dynamic quarterback.