Matthew Stafford is the reigning MVP, so it’s really not shocking that the Los Angeles Rams quarterback will not play in the 2026 NFL Preseason Week 2 when they face the New Orleans Saints.
Sean McVay plans to protect veteran starters and key players from injury, and that’s why Stafford is not playing vs. Saints. Hence, it will be different signal-callers during the preseason game.
Stetson Bennett and Ty Simpson will take the field vs. Saints as the Rams‘ quarterbacks. They are in a big-time QB2 battle as well so both players are fully motivated to give their all on the gridiron.
Stetson Bennett vs Ty Simpson
Bennett held the early edge in second-team reps but Simpson’s stellar preseason debut against the Kansas City Chiefs made the QB2 an open job with both fighting to be Stafford’s backup.
Ty Simpson, Stetson Bennett and Mathew Caldwell are orchestrating the offense today with Stafford out. pic.twitter.com/hvTlL9DAI2
— Ethan Shirazi (@Ethanshirazi24) July 31, 2026
Bennett relies on deep familiarity with Sean McVay’s offense and veteran competitive grit, whereas Simpson offers high-end physical traits, fast processing, and prototypical first-round upside.
Is Tyler Shough playing vs Rams?
Head coach Kellen Moore plans to rest Tyler Shough and other first-team players vs Rams, having already evaluated Shough during their joint practice sessions earlier in the week.
Hence, Spencer Rattler is the one that will get plenty of snaps in this game. Zach Wilson is also one that could see plenty of action, alongside Hunter Dekkers too. The Saints could also have a QB2 battle as Wilson and Rattler fight for their spot on the roster.
