NFL training camp notepad: Rams have outfitted Matthew Stafford to succeed — and maybe play a few years longer

Yahoo Sports’ senior NFL reporter Charles Robinson is on the road covering training camp. Today’s stop: the Los Angeles Rams.

About the QB

With a much-improved offensive line (if healthy) and depth in the backfield, Matthew Stafford could have the best running game of his time with the Rams at his disposal. That should make the offense more balanced and difficult to defend. While that might not equate to Stafford having a career year in numbers, it could very well be the trade that keeps him in the NFL for a few more seasons.

Newbie to watch out for

The top players selected in the first three rounds of the draft are obvious, but this has been a team that has surprised and rebuilt parts of the roster in the later rounds. Sixth-round wide receiver Jordan Whittington could fall into that category, with size and versatility that could create a Deebo Samuel-type role if he can stick around and develop. No, he’s not going to have a Puka Nacua-like impact right off the bat, but he has interesting long-term upside.

Keeping my eyes on

Backup quarterback Stetson Bennett. After leaving the Rams to focus on his mental health last season, Bennett is back and should see plenty of playing time in preseason games. He has to remind everyone in the organization why he was worth a fourth-round pick in 2023.

Fantasy thought

If he stays healthy, Kyren Williams will continue to be a fantasy beast for the Rams, even with the addition of rookie Blake Corum. Williams looks sharp and physical, and head coach Sean McVay raves about him. He’s the clear No. 1 pick heading into 2024.

What I saw that was interesting

After a season in which there was some regret over the risk of having no experience behind Matthew Stafford on the depth chart, Jimmy Garoppolo gives the Rams the most experienced and accomplished 1-2 quarterback depth chart in the league. To the tune of a remarkable $476.9 million in NFL career earnings between the duo.

Wildcard

The staff is excited about the early performance of free agent Kamren Curl. With his ability to play both safety and slot corner, he’ll give the staff a lot of versatility in the secondary scheme. He has power in practice… and it looks like the Rams got one of the best and cheapest free-agent additions on a two-year, $9 million deal.