Stetson Bennett Returns to the Field as He Competes for a Role at Los Angeles Rams Training Camp After Hiatus
Stetson Bennett’s journey through football has always defied expectations. From overlooked walk-on to back-to-back national champion quarterback for the Georgia Bulldogs, Bennett’s story reads like a Hollywood script—one filled with perseverance, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity. Now, after a year-long absence from professional football, Bennett is back on the field, competing at the Los Angeles Rams’ training camp, eager to prove that his remarkable college career was only the beginning.
When Bennett was selected by the Rams in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, it surprised some, but not those familiar with his body of work. Despite being undersized by NFL quarterback standards and entering the league at age 25, Bennett had established himself as one of the most clutch performers in recent college football memory. His leadership, command of the offense, and ability to elevate his play in critical moments made him a logical fit in a system like Sean McVay’s—a scheme built on timing, precision, and intelligence.
But after being drafted, things didn’t go according to plan. Bennett took a leave of absence from the team early in his rookie season for undisclosed personal reasons and did not return for the rest of the 2023 campaign. Details around his absence were sparse, with the Rams offering minimal explanation beyond confirming that he was placed on the reserve/non-football illness list. McVay and general manager Les Snead both emphasized their support for Bennett, noting the importance of his well-being above all else. The football world was left to wonder: would Bennett ever play again?
Fast forward to 2024, and that question is beginning to be answered. Bennett reported to the Rams’ offseason program and has since been a full participant in training camp, signaling not only a return to football but a renewed sense of purpose. He appears healthier, both mentally and physically, and the early buzz from camp suggests that he has picked up right where he left off in terms of football IQ and command of the playbook.
While Matthew Stafford remains the undisputed starter in Los Angeles, the Rams are eager to find a reliable backup—and possibly groom a long-term successor—for the veteran signal-caller. Stafford, now in his late 30s and dealing with the wear and tear of a long NFL career, isn’t guaranteed to play for many more seasons. That opens a window of opportunity for Bennett, who is still relatively young by quarterback standards if you take into account his limited mileage at the pro level.
Bennett’s strengths are well-suited to the Rams’ system. He’s quick in his reads, has enough arm strength to make all the throws required in McVay’s offense, and excels at throwing on the move. More importantly, he has a deep understanding of pre-snap reads, a skill developed during his time at Georgia where he routinely diagnosed complex defenses and made adjustments at the line. These are the types of traits that don’t always show up at the NFL Combine but become invaluable in live game situations.
The Rams’ coaching staff has praised Bennett’s preparedness and maturity since his return. McVay, known for his meticulous attention to detail and high standards for quarterbacks, has commented positively on Bennett’s sharpness and attention during meetings and walkthroughs. The team’s offensive coordinator has also noted Bennett’s quick processing and natural leadership style, saying that players gravitate toward him—a quality that helped him become a legend in Athens.
Still, the road ahead is not without challenges. Bennett faces competition in the quarterback room, including veteran backup Jimmy Garoppolo and young developmental players also hoping to carve out a role. While Bennett has the advantage of being drafted by the organization and having a year of mental reps, he still needs to prove himself in preseason games and daily practice sessions. The NFL, after all, is a production-based business, and potential means little without consistent execution on the field.
Another factor in Bennett’s favor is familiarity with adversity. His college career was defined by obstacles, from being buried on the depth chart to transferring away from Georgia and then back again. Each time, he responded by working harder and finding a way to rise. In many ways, this latest chapter in Los Angeles is simply another test—another opportunity to prove that he belongs.
One major asset in Bennett’s corner is the Rams’ offensive infrastructure. Playing under Sean McVay gives any quarterback a distinct advantage, as McVay’s system has elevated players like Jared Goff, Baker Mayfield, and of course, Stafford. The Rams’ offense emphasizes play-action, quick decision-making, and rhythm passing—all elements that play to Bennett’s strengths. With weapons like Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, and emerging young talent at tight end and running back, the Rams’ offense offers plenty of support for a quarterback looking to get comfortable.
The support system extends beyond just personnel. The Rams’ quarterback room, led by the experienced Stafford, is known to be collaborative and positive. Stafford himself has spoken highly of Bennett, noting his competitiveness and approach to learning. Having a mentor like Stafford could accelerate Bennett’s development in ways that reps alone cannot. Learning from someone who’s won a Super Bowl and navigated the league for over a decade is a valuable asset, particularly for a player trying to acclimate after time away.
Fans, too, have taken notice of Bennett’s return. He remains a cult hero in Georgia, where his championship runs will never be forgotten. But in Los Angeles, he’s something of an enigma—a player with massive college accolades and a unique personality trying to earn a spot on one of the NFL’s most progressive rosters. The LA market, known for star power and comeback stories, seems almost tailor-made for someone like Bennett, who thrives under pressure and embraces the underdog mentality.
If Bennett performs well in the preseason, the Rams will likely keep him on the active roster as the primary backup or third-string quarterback. But the long-term vision could be even more intriguing. Should Stafford miss time due to injury—or decide to retire in the near future—Bennett could be in line to inherit the reins of a high-powered offense. That scenario isn’t just wishful thinking; it’s a reality the Rams are quietly preparing for. Investing in Bennett as a developmental quarterback with upside is a smart move for a franchise that doesn’t always prioritize early-round draft picks due to frequent trades.
To get there, though, Bennett must stay the course. The NFL is littered with talented players who never quite made the leap due to injuries, inconsistency, or off-field concerns. Bennett’s brief time away from football will raise questions about durability and dependability, and it’s up to him to answer those with action. But if history is any guide, doubting Stetson Bennett has rarely paid off.
He’s overcome long odds before. He’s silenced critics who said he was too short, too old, or too raw. He’s stared down powerhouse programs like Alabama, Ohio State, and Michigan and walked off the field a winner. Now, he’s staring down a different kind of challenge—one defined not by hostile college crowds, but by the silent pressure of daily NFL scrutiny and the need to justify his spot in a league that moves quickly and offers few second chances.
For Bennett, though, it’s not about proving anything to the doubters anymore. It’s about continuing to chase the game he loves and seizing an opportunity that many never get. Training camp is just the beginning, but it represents something much bigger. It’s a second chance. It’s a clean slate. It’s a platform for him to once again show that you don’t need to fit the mold to be a winner.
Whether or not Bennett ever becomes a full-time starter in the NFL remains to be seen. That’s a question only time, reps, and circumstance can answer. But what’s certain is this: he’s back, he’s competing, and he’s not content to let his college legacy be the final word on his football story.
In an NFL landscape constantly chasing the next prototype quarterback, there’s something refreshing about Stetson Bennett—a player who just keeps showing up, keeps grinding, and keeps finding a way. If he can bring even a fraction of his college magic to the pro stage, the Rams might have something special on their hands. And if not, well, don’t be surprised if Bennett writes yet another unexpected chapter. After all, that’s what he’s always done.
