Los Angeles Rams could go all in on New Orleans Saints hometown hero in a move that could hurt worse than 2019

The Los Angeles Rams, a team with a rich history and a fervent fan base, have the potential to make a major splash in the NFL draft next April by potentially landing Arch Manning, the highly touted quarterback and heir to the Manning family legacy. This potential move could have significant implications for both the Rams and the New Orleans Saints, as well as their respective fan bases.

For the Los Angeles Rams, landing Arch Manning would represent a major coup in terms of securing a franchise quarterback for the future. The Rams have had success in recent years with their current quarterback, Matthew Stafford, but there is no denying that Manning has the potential to be a generational talent. As the latest in a long line of successful quarterbacks in the Manning family, including his grandfather Archie, uncle Peyton, and father Eli, Arch Manning has been widely regarded as one of the top quarterback prospects in the country.

In addition to his impressive physical tools, including a strong arm and excellent accuracy, Manning has demonstrated a high football IQ and an ability to read defenses at a high level. His poise under pressure and leadership qualities have also been praised by scouts and analysts, making him a highly sought-after prospect in the upcoming draft.

For the Rams, the potential addition of Manning could provide a long-term solution at the quarterback position and solidify their status as contenders in the NFC. With a talented roster already in place, including stars like Aaron Donald, Jalen Ramsey, and Cooper Kupp, adding Manning to the mix could elevate the Rams to elite status in the league.

However, while the potential addition of Manning would undoubtedly be a cause for celebration among Rams fans, it could also be a bitter pill to swallow for fans of the New Orleans Saints. The Saints, a team with a passionate and loyal fan base, have a deep connection to the Manning family, as both Archie and Peyton Manning played significant roles in the team’s history.

Archie Manning, a beloved figure in New Orleans, played quarterback for the Saints from 1971 to 1982 and was a two-time Pro Bowl selection during his time with the team. His son Peyton, widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, was also drafted by the Saints with the first overall pick in the 1998 NFL Draft.

While Peyton Manning ultimately went on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos, his ties to New Orleans have remained strong throughout his career. He has been a frequent visitor to the city and has maintained close ties to the Saints organization, even after his playing days were over.

Given this history, the potential scenario of Arch Manning playing for the Rams instead of the Saints could be a difficult pill to swallow for many New Orleans fans. The idea of seeing another Manning quarterback suit up for a rival team, especially one with whom the Saints have a strong emotional connection, could be a painful reminder of what might have been for the team.

In addition to the emotional impact on fans, the potential loss of Manning to the Rams could also have significant on-field implications for the Saints. With future Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees retiring after the 2020 season, the team has been searching for a long-term solution at the quarterback position.

While the Saints have had some success with Jameis Winston and Taysom Hill at quarterback in Brees’ absence, there is no denying that the team could benefit from a talent like Manning. His potential to become a franchise quarterback could provide stability and success for the team for years to come, something that has been elusive for the Saints since Brees’ departure.

Furthermore, the potential loss of Manning to the Rams could also have ripple effects in terms of the team’s overall competitiveness in the NFC South. The division, which includes perennial contenders like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Atlanta Falcons, is one of the most competitive in the league, and having a franchise quarterback like Manning could be the key to the Saints’ success in the division.

Overall, the potential scenario of Arch Manning landing with the Los Angeles Rams instead of the New Orleans Saints could have far-reaching implications for both teams and their respective fan bases. While the Rams would undoubtedly benefit from adding a talent like Manning to their roster, the Saints and their fans could be left wondering what might have been if Manning had chosen to follow in his family’s footsteps and play for the team with which he has such deep ties.

In the end, only time will tell where Arch Manning will ultimately end up in the NFL. But one thing is for certain: the potential of him landing with the Rams instead of the Saints could be a shot to the heart of New Orleans fans, and a reminder of the emotional connections that sports can create between teams, players, and their supporters.

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Source: Sporting News