In Thousand Oaks, California, Stetson Bennett, quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, disclosed that his hiatus from the sport prior to the previous season was spent focusing on his mental well-being.
This Tuesday, Bennett expressed a renewed energy and enthusiasm about returning to the field.
Bennett, who holds two national titles from his time at the University of Georgia, is currently engaged in the Rams’ offseason organized team activities.
Following his second national championship win in January 2023, Bennett was recruited by the Rams in the fourth round. He quickly got involved in the team’s activities and actively participated in preseason play while vying to become Matthew Stafford’s backup under coach Sean McVay.
Nevertheless, Bennett’s journey with the Rams was halted before the start of the regular season, and he did not make a comeback in 2023.
When asked about his absence, Bennett stated, “I was home. The particulars of what happened and why I left will remain internal discussions. Thankfully, Les (Snead) and Coach McVay were supportive when I went back home.”
On inquiring if his departure was related to mental health, Bennett confirmed, “Yeah, I’d say that.”
The 26-year-old Bennett stayed in touch with the Rams’ coaches during his time off and was determined to make a comeback to the sport.
About his first day back with the Rams this spring, he shared, “A lot of nerves that first day. It hasn’t been seamless, but it’s been improving day by day, as you hope it would.”
Last season, the Rams’ backup job was taken over by Brett Rypien, who struggled through one and a half games during Stafford’s absence due to injury. The team later signed Carson Wentz, who played significantly only in the final regular-season game, with Stafford resting for the upcoming playoffs.
For the current year, the Rams have signed experienced NFL quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo as Stafford’s backup, yet Bennett continues to practice with the team in hopes of securing a position.
Bennett remarked, “Getting back to football has been amazing. It’s what I love to do.”
Garoppolo is set to serve a two-game suspension at the beginning of the season after making a mistake while applying for a therapeutic use exemption for an unnamed substance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did Stetson Bennett leave the Rams?
- Stetson Bennett left the Rams to focus on his mental health but has stated he always planned to return to football.
- Has Stetson Bennett returned to the Rams?
- Yes, Stetson Bennett has returned to the Rams and is participating in their offseason organized team activities.
- Will Stetson Bennett play in the regular season?
- As of now, Bennett is practicing with the team and it has not been announced whether he will play in the regular season.