The Rams are heading into their divisional round matchup against the Bears with a few key question marks on the depth chart - most notably at backup quarterback.
Jimmy Garoppolo, who’s been serving as Matthew Stafford’s primary backup, is officially listed as questionable after missing both Thursday and Friday’s practices due to a back issue that flared up earlier in the week. While Garoppolo hasn’t seen much action this season - just 18 snaps across three games without attempting a pass - his veteran presence on the sideline is still a valuable asset, especially in a high-stakes playoff environment.
If Garoppolo isn’t able to suit up, second-year quarterback Stetson Bennett is next in line. Bennett, who spent much of the season developing behind the scenes, would be thrust into the backup role behind Stafford. It’s not the most high-profile storyline heading into the weekend, but it’s one worth keeping an eye on - especially considering Stafford’s injury history and the physical nature of postseason football.
The Rams are also monitoring a couple of other health situations. Defensive end Desjuan Johnson was a late addition to the injury report on Friday with an illness and is also listed as questionable. Johnson has been a rotational piece on the defensive line, and his availability could impact the Rams’ front against a Bears offense that leans heavily on the ground game.
On the positive side, the offensive line gets a boost with the return of right guard Kevin Dotson. Dotson, who left the Week 18 loss to the Seahawks with an ankle injury, was a full participant in Friday’s practice and is set to return to the starting lineup. His presence should help stabilize the interior protection for Stafford and provide some much-needed push in the run game.
As kickoff approaches, the Rams are mostly healthy where it counts - particularly with Stafford and the starting unit - but the depth concerns at quarterback and along the defensive line are worth watching. In the playoffs, even the smallest cracks in the roster can become magnified.