The Los Angeles Rams have rested Matthew Stafford during 2025 NFL Training Camp, as he deals with back soreness. At 38, the Super Bowl winning quarterback isn't getting any younger -- and the Rams will eventually need a future successor. One NFL Draft insider hinted at a "worst kept secret" ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
NFL Draft Insider Hints at Rams' 'Worst Kept Secret' Involving Arch Manning originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Los Angeles Rams have rested Matthew Stafford during 2025 NFL Training Camp, as he deals with back soreness. At 38, the Super Bowl winning quarterback isn't getting any younger -- and the Rams will eventually need a future successor.
One NFL Draft insider hinted at a "worst kept secret" ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. One that involves Arch Manning.
The Texas QB is garnering hefty hype ahead of his much-anticipated starting debut this fall. The nephew of Super Bowl winners Peyton and Eli Manning has many analysts and draft experts penciling him in as the No. 1 pick should he come out early.
Colin Cowherd is one speculating Manning's 2026 destination, which he predicted is the Cleveland Browns. However, veteran NFL Draft insider Todd McShay of The Ringer pointed out the Rams as the other situation to monitor for the following reasons.
"Not refuting this as a 'worst-kept secret.' But it’s not the only situation to monitor," McShay began. "There’s another team with two first round picks in ‘26 whose GM’s son is a close friend to Arch at Texas. And the HC has a pretty good history with QBs. Just sayin…"
McShay secretly name drops Les Snead in his point. The Rams general manager's son Tate Harver is a teammate of Manning in Austin. McShay then mentions how Sean McVay has thrived with Stafford and Jared Goff during his time in L.A. Including going to the Super Bowl behind both QBs.
The Rams are in a precarious spot ahead of April 2026. Stafford managed to get his deal restructured during the offseason. But backup Jimmy Garoppolo is a free agent for '26. Meanwhile, 2024 fourth rounder Stetson Bennett is yet to throw a regular season pass and many believe he may not stick around long. Perhaps they'll become persuaded to take a QB one year from now.
Snead, McVay and the Rams opted to pass on taking a QB for the 2025 class. They may have a hard time turning down Manning if he's available for '26.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 24, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Football
