This year continues to present obstacles for multiple NFL teams. During the past week, things spiraled downhill for the Los Angeles Rams as Jared Goff broke his right thumb, which means that he probably cannot start in the final game. Despite playoffs being on the line for the team, backup QB John Wolford will most likely be getting the start.
Rams’ QB Jared Goff underwent surgery today on his broken right thumb in LA and is unlikely to play Sunday vs. Arizona, sources tell ESPN. If he can’t play Sunday, Goff could return for the playoffs if Rams advance there.
John Wolford is Goff’s backup and now in line to start.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 29, 2020
John Wolford last played a professional game in 2019, for the Arizona Hotshots of the AAF. After putting up some solid numbers in that league, he signed with the Rams to be the backup for Goff.
You’re going to like John Wolford.
Listen to my partner @nateburleson after this TD in 2019. @minakimes @RamsNFL pic.twitter.com/wB6rx1l0EX
— Andrew Siciliano (@AndrewSiciliano) December 29, 2020
Wolford was a stud at Wake Forest, most known for his defeat of Lamar Jackson’s Louisville as he threw for 475 yards and six touchdowns. Since college, he struggled to maintain a position on an NFL roster, so he tried out for the AAF. Rick Neuheisel, head coach of the Arizona Hotshots, liked what he saw.
He ended up starting eight games for the Hotshots, before the AAF folded in 2019. Through those eight games, he put up some impressive performances, especially towards the end of the season. He finished the year with 1,616 yards, 63.4% completion, 14 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
Looking forward to seeing John Wolford play for the Rams on Sunday. Should be interesting to see how his style fits with McVay's coaching. #ARIvsLA #AAF #RamsHouse https://t.co/jXsSTgXq6e
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenMI) December 31, 2020
Wolford is surprisingly athletic, and has shown his ability to scramble and evade pressure. In the AAF he scrambled for over 160 yards and a TD. His accuracy can be an issue at times, but generally speaking Wolford has the talent to make an impact on an NFL team. Sunday should be a huge opportunity for him, and we’ll have to wait and see what he does with it.
Do you think John Wolford can lead the Rams to the playoffs? Did you enjoy seeing him play in the AAF? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
