While the team gave former Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford a two-year extension this offseason, he has thought about retiring multiple times recently and just turned 37 in February.

With Stafford likely nearing the end of his career, NFL Spin Zone’s Sayre Bedinger projects the Rams to trade up in the 2026 NFL Draft and pick Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza in Round 1 to eventually take over.

Even if Stafford returns in 2026 and the Rams want to keep him, it’s still a smart time to bring in his successor and make the transition when it’s clear Stafford’s decline begins.

Mendoza moved from California to Indiana last December and will start for the Hoosiers in 2025, entering the year as one of college football’s most intriguing passers.

In two years starting at Cal, Mendoza threw for 4,712 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions while completing 66.5% of his passes—flashing consistency and good poise.

Although he hasn’t had a dominant college season yet, Mendoza has ideal size at 6-foot-5, and with sharp arm strength and growing accuracy, he could take off in 2025.

If Mendoza declares for the NFL after 2025, the Rams would be a strong fit. He’s still developing, and learning behind a proven veteran like Stafford could benefit his career long-term.

Drafting Mendoza to develop under Stafford for a season or two would be a wise investment. The Miami product has franchise QB upside, and it may be hard for L.A. to pass on him.