RSS Rams Team Notes

[Los Angeles Rams]

L.A. Rams News: That team wasn’t ready

The Seattle Seahawks just won the Super Bowl, and they knocked the Los Angeles Rams out of the playoffs during their run, and if you hear Jared Verse talk about the loss, he seems to say that the Rams weren’t ready for Darnold’s best self.

L.A.’s defense seemed to think they would get after Seattle, but instead, Seattle got after them.

Matthew Stafford and the offense put up a great effort, but their defense and special teams didn’t match it. And in the end, the offense came up short too. The team fell short.

So, maybe it’s a learning lesson for some players on the Rams, but seems like it’s a lesson that they should’ve already known. Seattle was going to be a tough out, why anyone would’ve thought otherwise seems odd.

Verse does say in the interview that he knew Seattle was a good team, but I guess he thought the Rams would be better. That’s not what happened.

Thank you for checking out Turf Show Times, congrats to Cooper Kupp, Ernest Jones, Cam Akers and some others for their Super Bowl win, and now we really start the NFL offseason! What a year.

Happy Monday.

Jared Verse: Rams defense ‘mentally shut down’ in NFC championship (ramswire)​

“Jared Verse fully admits that, taking the blame for Los Angeles’ heartbreaking loss on the road in Seattle. He joined “The Pivot” podcast and shared some shocking statements about the Rams’ young defense and their mentality – both leading up to the game, and during it.

“We all hyped up all week,” he said. “We’re like, ‘Yeah, we’re going to beat them again. We know what we learned from last time.’ And then when we start having trouble – early on, they throw a big play, everybody’s kind of like, s—-ing the bed. Like, ‘Oh, what do we do now? This isn’t going the way we thought this was going to go. They’re not laying down.’”

Three Former Rams Win Super Bowl LX For Rival Seahawks (si.com)​

“WOODLAND HILLS, Ca. The Los Angeles Rams were witnesses to three former Super Bowl LVI champions strapping up to play for the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX.”

Analyst proposes Rams hypothetical trade for Maxx Crosby (sports.yahoo)​

“The future of Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby will be one of the biggest storylines to follow during the 2026 offseason. While both the Raiders and Crosby have reputed reports of a split, many believe the team will eventually move the disgruntled player.

The Rams don’t need another edge rusher, but general manager Les Snead insinuated that the team will make some big moves to capitalize on Matthew Stafford’s return. A trade for Crosby isn’t out of the question, either, considering the draft capital, salary cap space and veterans L.A. could send in any move.“

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/134692/la-rams-news-seahawks-super-bowl

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

L.A. Rams News: Team should be ‘sick’ says a lot of people

Jan 25, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; A Seattle Seahawks fan holds up a sign after the 2026 NFC Championship Game against the Los Angeles Rams at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images | Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Rams just watched the Seattle Seahawks beat the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl, and the takeaway by many talking heads is that the Rams should be sick about missing out on their chance to get to this Super Bowl, and win.

Of course, we’ll never know if the Rams would’ve beaten New England or not, but we can guess the Rams thought they were good enough to do it since they thought they were good enough to beat Seattle.

Maybe the Rams are feeling “sick” over watching Seattle win the big game. That’s probably true. What’s done is done. The Rams put up a great fight, but in the end they got beat. That’s happens to 31 out of 32 teams every year.

Thanks for checking out Turf Show Times and have a great day! There’s always next year.

Peter Schrager: Rams must be ‘absolutely sick’ after watching Super Bowl (ramswire)​

“Peter Schrager of ESPN put things into perspective for the Rams, saying on First Take that the Rams “have to wake up absolutely sick” over coming up short of the Super Bowl this season.

“I think the LA Rams wake up this morning absolutely sick,” he said. “… They put up 457 yards on that Seahawks defense in Week 16 and didn’t win? They put up 581 yards on that Seahawks defense in the NFC championship and didn’t win? If you’re Matthew Stafford, if you’re Sean McVay, you wake up this morning absolutely ill, having watched that team do what they did to the New England Patriots and say, ‘How did we not play in that game?’ I think the Rams are the team with the greatest regret right now.”

Seahawks, Rams favored in wide-open Super Bowl LXI field (espn.com)​

“The Seattle Seahawks won Super Bowl LX after entering the season as +6000 long shots. They’ll enter the next season favored to win Super Bowl LXI, but their relatively long odds suggest the field is unprecedentedly wide open.

Seattle is tied with the Los Angeles Rams at +950 to win the NFL’s championship in 2027, followed by the Buffalo Bills at +1100, and the Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens and AFC champion New England Patriots tied at +1300, according to DraftKings odds.

If they hold until the beginning of the season, the Seahawks’ and Rams’ odds would be the longest for a preseason favorite on record since at least 1977, per ESPN Research and SportsOddsHistory.com. Since 2015, +950 would have been the second-shortest odds on the odds board once and fifth-shortest on the board six times.“

Random Ramdom Fandom:​

“I think the positive thing is they weren’t “ready” last year also. but what was the glaring weakness as the Season ended, Barkley and Hurts running all over them so McVay and Snead went out and focused on fixing that while the pass Defense appeared “good enough” and they left it alone.

This year, it’s kind of obvious you got more pronounced holes in the Special Teams than ever and obviously the back half’s coverage ability, I think McVay and Snead will focus on that…“ -arch stenton

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/134730/la-rams-news-seattle-seahawks-nfl

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

The NFC has dominated the AFC of late

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks pulls in a one handed catch in front of Cobie Durant #14 of the Los Angeles Rams during the first quarter in the NFC Championship game at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

One of the most underappreciated storylines to come out of Super Bowl LX is the NFC conference’s recent dominance over the AFC.

The Patriots looked noncompetitive against the Seattle Seahawks and fell 13-29. Drake Maye had one of the worst quarterback performances in recent memory.

Just a year ago the Chiefs were blown out by the Philadelphia Eagles 22-40. The game was never close.

But the Chiefs did win the last two Super Bowls prior to 2024. They did so with three-point margins against each of the 49ers and Eagles. The NFC won the two world championships leading up to that point with wins by the Rams and Buccaneers.

In short, four of the last six Super Bowl victories have gone to the NFC. The two most recent games features the largest point differentials, and those outcomes tipped heavily in the National conference’s favor.

Rams at Seahawks was the real Super Bowl​

Did the story reach its climax in the championship weekend? I asked this question leading up to the Seahawks hosting the Rams, and it seems particularly apt now.

We saw the two best teams in the NFL go toe-to-toe for a trip to the Super Bowl. It seemed at the time whoever finished on top would also lay claim to the Lombardi Trophy. That held true.

Were the Patriots frauds? Not necessarily. They were just a year too early in terms of their roster build. This was an AFC conference without the Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes, and the Bengals and Ravens who battled injuries at the quarterback position for most of the season. It’s positive for New England that they were able to accumulate playoff experience for a young roster. 2025 was never going to be their year.

What the future holds for Rams​

The path will remain more difficult on the NFC side for the foreseeable future. The Seahawks probably aren’t going anywhere. The Bears, Packers, Panthers, and new entrants should be tougher a year from now.

We know the Rams have serious needs heading into the offseason. They need to rework their secondary in addition to reloading at receiver.

Even if they patch these holes it will be an uphill battle to return to the NFC championship. That’s just how the NFL works. As a fan you must appreciate these moments because they are fleeting between eras.

But hey, if the Rams do make it out of the NFC they should have the upper hand over the AFC team.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/134825/rams-nfc-dominates-afc-super-bowl

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

L.A. Rams News: They’re still in a good spot, no?

Jan 25, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay walks on field before the 2026 NFC Championship Game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images | Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

There is some heavy disappointment about the fact that the Los Angeles Rams “coulda woulda shoulda” when it comes to the latest Super Bowl, but despite the “coulda woulda shoulda”, there is a lot to be excited about.

I am sure there’s plenty to write and talk about when it comes to the Rams and their two first round picks, the return of Matthew Stafford and the true emergence of Puka Nacua, there’s plenty to look forward to when it comes to 2026.

Of course, yes, there’s still plenty to say about the “coulda woulda shoulda”, but there’s a lot to be happy about too with regard to the 2025 season, and the future of the L.A. Rams.

Thanks for checking out Turf Show Times and have a great Hump Day!

Latest Los Angeles Rams news officially confirms end of an era after longest-tenured player retires (atozsports)​

“Havenstein was the last member of the St. Louis Rams on the roster. He was drafted in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft, the same year that the Rams added running back Todd Gurley. Ever since then, he manned the right tackle spot, and was a key cog in two Super Bowl runs and a Super Bowl victory in Super Bowl LVI.

Throughout his career, Havenstein was a model teammate and player for the Rams. He never missed a start, no matter how many injuries he had to battle through, going for 148 games, two shy of Hall of Famer Deacon Jones and the 27th most-played games in Rams’ history.“

Rams Signal Major Reset With Latest Hire as 2026 Dominoes Fall (lafbnetwork)​

“The Los Angeles Rams could be on the verge of a significant defensive reshaping — and it starts with the secondary.

According to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, the Rams are expected to hire Michael Hunter from the University of Tennessee as their next defensive backs coach, continuing an offseason defined by quiet but meaningful coaching change.“

Second wave of hires could be deepest cut of all to Rams coaching staff (ramblinfan)​

“Unfortunately, head coaches need new coordinators and positional coaches on staff as well. And so, the same Los Angeles coaching staff that survived the first round of hiring must now brace for the aftershocks of a second round. Now, Assistant head coach Aubrey Pleasant is interviewing for open defensive coordinator positions with both the Arizona Cardinals and the Cleveland Browns.

He is likely to be offered one of the two positions.

This could be the deepest cut of all. It’s particularly detrimental to a secondary that seemed to regress in 2025. The defense is currently in a state of flux, and nobody is more familiar with LA’s defensive backs than Coach Pleasant.“

Sean McVay Expected to Draft Matthew Stafford’s Replacement After Rams QB’sFinal Retirement Decision (sports.yahoo.com)​

“The Rams will trade up in the draft for a quarterback,” Schatz noted. “They need a young talent for when Stafford is ready to hang ’em up, whether that’s this offseason or in a few years.”

If Schatz’s prediction on Sean McVay’s decision is right, it could fix the quarterback dilemma the team could have at the end of the 2026 season. The Rams are projected to have nine or ten total picks from the 2026 NFL Draft, most notably two first-round selections at the 13th and 29th spots. With two first-round picks, the franchise could target a rookie quarterback.“

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/134815/la-rams-news-nfl-2026-season

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

5 things Rams need to do to play in Super Bowl 61

Los Angeles Rams owner Stan Kroenke receives the Lombardi Trophy at the conclusion of Super Bowl 56 after the Rams defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 23-20 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif. Xxx 021322 Bengals Ke 0015 Jpg S Fbn Usa Ca

The Los Angeles Rams will be a favorite to hoist the Lombardi Trophy for a second time in their home stadium in Super Bowl 61. Following Super Bowl 60, the Rams are currently +900 favorites which leads the NFL heading into the offseason. Still, if the Rams are going to take that next step and win a second Super Bowl with Matthew Stafford, they’ll need to improve in key areas to ensure they accomplish their goal. Here are five things that the Rams need to do to give themselves the best chance at playing in Super Bowl 61.

1. Improve at cornerback​

Throughout the 2025 season, cornerback play and the secondary were consistent issues on the defense. It was a need heading into the season, a need before the trade deadline, and it ultimately was the team’s downfall. It’s true that a good pass rush can benefit an average secondary. However, the issue is that the Rams cornerback group wasn’t even average. The Rams were relying on a 32-year-old Darious Williams, 30-year-old Ahkello Witherspoon, and a former first-round bust in Emmanuel Forbes. It simply wasn’t good enough.

At the end of the day, the Rams need to do a better job balancing out the pass rush and coverage units. It’s hard to fix everything in one offseason and the Rams fixed the run defense. Now they need to fix the secondary. They don’t necessarily need a lockdown player at cornerback. With that said, they need to add a player that can at least hold their own to some extent and be trusted to cover for a period of time.

2. Win the division​

This isn’t to say that the Rams didn’t prioritize winning the division this past season. At the same time, the division was well within their grasp and they let it slip late in the year. Over the past three seasons, the Rams have lost playoff games that they may have won had it been at SoFi. The Rams arguably beat the Detroit Lions at SoFi in 2023. An argument can be made that the Rams beat the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024 in non-blizzard conditions. Winning three consecutive road games on their way to the Super Bowl was always going to be a tall ask this past season.

If the Rams can earn the one seed and a bye week, that’s an added bonus. Even if they can’t, winning the division and earning one home playoff game on Wild Card Weekend is a huge advantage. There’s a reason only four teams have done it since 2000 and no team has done it since the NFL expanded to a 17-game season. If the Rams are going to make the Super Bowl, winning the division has to remain a priority.

3. Take a big swing​

The Rams very likely have one more realistic shot with Matthew Stafford at quarterback and that’s next season. This isn’t to say that the front office should be reckless, but if the opportunity presents itself, they need to swing big. In a sense, it’s a spot where they fell short this season. There’s a very real possibility that we’re sitting here in five years and wondering why the Rams front office sat on two first-round picks while Matthew Stafford was playing at an MVP level.

Again, the Rams don’t need to mortgage their future or do anything crazy. However, they can’t be content or be afraid to take a big swing. Whether it’s a pass rusher like Maxx Crosby, an experienced cornerback like Trent McDuffie, or someone else, the Rams need to take a swing that could get them over the top at the end of their current window.

With teams considering the upcoming free-agent and draft classes to be subpar, there could be an uptick in trade activity this off-season.

With @DanStanczyk:

https://t.co/FSBvK8wSE8 pic.twitter.com/bb9pX31jHV

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 11, 2026

4. Get more mature​

There were times this season where the Rams seemed to lack the proper leadership and maturity. Too many times, they got sucked into their own hype and seemed to believe that just showing up was enough. Before the biggest game of the season in Week 16, Puka Nacua went on a controversial podcast and tried to get the hosts into the practice facility. During the playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Jared Verse was quoted saying that the defense lost it after the first drive when the Seahawks scored.

Those are all things that we haven’t seen during the Sean McVay era. The Rams have always been a mature team and had strong leadership. That’s not to say that the Rams had bad leadership, but it’s something that they lacked with an overall young roster. This past season will be a good learning experience for a lot of young players. With that said, they have some maturing to do this offseason. If the Rams are going to take that next step, they need to play every game with purpose and show more maturity in spots.

5. Put a focal point on special teams​

The Rams lost too many games this past season because of special teams. Their first loss of the season came in Week 3 because of multiple blocked field goals. Against the Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game, it was a muffed punt by Xavier Smith that was the turning point. The Seahawks had the number two special teams unit in the NFL. In college football, Indiana had the fourth-best special teams unit. Special teams matter more than head coaches want them to.

Bubba Ventrone was recently hired as the Rams’ special teams coach. However, the moves can’t stop there. The Rams need to draft players on day three with a focal point on special teams. While the Rams found some stability with Harrison Mevis, they never trusted him beyond 50 yards and Ethan Evans was inconsistent down the stretch. The Rams don’t need to have the NFL’s best special teams unit. With that said, they need one that won’t cost them games.

Seahawks had the No. 2 special teams in the NFL. Indiana had the No. 4 special teams in CFB. They matter. https://t.co/9dwuMKPHGD

— Chris Vannini (@ChrisVannini) February 9, 2026

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...five-things-rams-must-do-to-win-super-bowl-61

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Back-to-back seasons end in back-to-back losses to the eventual SB Champ

Jan 25, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) celebrates with the trophy on the podium after defeating the Los Angeles Rams in the 2026 NFC Championship Game at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images | Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

An observation, but the Los Angeles Rams have now been eliminated in back-to-back postseasons by the eventual Super Bowl Champions, and in both cases, the Rams came up just short.

In 2024, the Rams lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the Divisional Round by a score of 28-22. L.A. had a chance to take a late lead, they were driving, but their drive stalled out as the offensive line failed to hold up for Matthew Stafford.

The Rams would lose as Philly went on to the win the Super Bowl. The Rams gave Philly their biggest challenge of their postseason run.

In 2025, the Rams lost to the Seattle Seahawks by a score of 31-27. L.A. (similar to the Philly game) had a chance for a go-ahead score late, and they were driving, but at the 6-yard line, L.A. stalled out as Stafford was unable to connect with any of his receivers for a go-ahead touchdown.

Seattle went on to win the Super Bowl, and the Rams gave Seattle the biggest challenge of their postseason run.

Both games had L.A. turnovers, both games had mental mistakes, both games were winnable by the Rams on their best day.

What do these losses mean?​

On a base level, it means that the Rams have had a team capable of pushing the past two Super Bowl Champions to the brink, and despite their errors in those games, L.A. still had the chance to knock both teams out.

Had L.A. been able to do that in either 2024 or 2025, they’d of potentially had a shot to win it all.

You could say L.A. winning it all in 2024 is a bit more of a stretch because they would’ve had to beat the Eagles (the clear best team in the NFL), and then the Washington Commanders before taking on the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl.

For 2025, had the Rams found a way to beat Seattle, they’d have gone to the Super Bowl. The Rams had the talent, but for whatever reason, they didn’t have the mentality, and tip your cap to Seattle who was the best team when it mattered most, but it’s not like the Rams didn’t put up a heck of a fight.

Even with their fumble in the NFC Championship game, and the offense failing to score before halftime and giving the ball back to Seattle who did score, they lost by four points. They were right there.

However, for the second year in a row, the Rams came up short, and when they have to watch the team that beat them go on to win the whole thing, that has to weigh on the psyche of the team.

Yes, the Rams have been close to doing something truly memorable and special the last two seasons, but they’ve fallen short both times. Until that changes, that’s a feature not a glitch.

And here’s another observation, if Sean McVay and Les Snead want to stay off the hot seat, they need to change this pattern because while winning covers up a lot in the NFL, losing exposes you, whether that’s fair or not.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...866/rams-seattle-seahawks-eagles-playoffs-nfl

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Which parts of Rams don’t need fixed?

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: Kyren Williams #23 of the Los Angeles Rams runs on the field prior to the NFC Championship NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, WA. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Los Angeles Rams have a few serious needs ahead of the 2026 season. They’ll need to patch holes in the secondary and at pass catcher. Adding depth at quarterback, tackle, linebacker, and in general would help futureproof this roster for years to come.

But for now let’s take a look at the areas of the team that need not fixed.

Running back​

While Blake Corum seemed like a draft dud during his rookie season, he emerged in 2025 as a capable player deserving of a larger role. Corum has more wiggle and can hit longer runs than starter Kyren Williams, and together they can maintain one of the most productive workloads in the NFL.

The Rams also drafted Jarquez Hunter in the fourth round last spring. He was a healthy scratch for most of the year. One small upgrade LA could make would be to play Hunter over Ronnie Rivers. This position needs no major shakeups.

Tight end​

Can the Rams tweak depth and upgrade over Davis Allen or make a bigger move to replace Tyler Higbee (likely to leave in free agency)? Sure. But the most significant needle mover would be an expansion of Terrance Ferguson’s role over his second season.

Ferguson is one of the most unique offensive threats in football. He brings a verticality to the tight end position that is unlike any other. LA could also better leverage his talents from a run after the catch perspective, which is something he did well in his college does at Oregon.

Colby Parkinson is coming off a career year. He’s valuable in run blocking. Additional growth and further deployment of multiple tight ends can only benefit the offense.

Interior offensive line​

If the team makes a move at center or guard this season, it probably will be an extension for LG Steve Avila and/or Kevin Doston. Coleman Shelton was an upgrade over Beaux Limmer at center and his job is safe for 2026.

It never hurts to add depth at offensive line. It’s difficult to spend more than a middle or late round pick given how the starters are playing. Shelton is probably only a short-term solution.

Interior defensive line​

Again, the Rams could spend big in this area but it would be locking up Kobie Turner long-term. Braden Fiske performed well into the playoffs. Poona Ford played a very important role in fixing LA’s run defense after they were gashed over and over in 2024.

There’s also a lot of depth to like. Tyler Davis contributed valuable snaps. It’s too early to give up on Ty Hamilton, whose role expanded towards the end of the year.

Another year of development is all this group needs.

EDGE rusher​

You can never have too many pass rushers. It wouldn’t be surprising to see LA add talent ahead of a Super Bowl push. These are the areas that can make or break a contending roster.

While Jared Verse didn’t exactly take the step from impressive rookie season to superstar, he still had one of the most productive seasons of all EDGE rushers. Byron Young’s status beyond 2026 is uncertain though it’s hard to imagine him anywhere else for the next year.

Josaiah Stewart took on a hybrid role that should only expand in his second season, especially now that we know defensive coordinator Chris Shula will return. Desjuan Johnson pulled a Michael Hoecht and converted from the interior to become a productive player on the EDGE. You’d expect growth a year removed from a position change.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/134920/rams-offseason-needs-free-agency-draft

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Which UFA free agents should Rams bring back in 2026?

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: Cobie Durant #14 of the Los Angeles Rams reacts after a play during the second quarter of the NFC Championship NFL football game, at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Los Angeles Rams enter an important offseason in which all the chips will be in the middle of the table as they push for another Super Bowl. That’s partially what makes the situations with their own free agents that much more complicated. How much do they prioritize running it back with a group that made the NFC Championship versus upgrading certain positions? Here is what the Rams should do with their unrestricted free agents.

Rams Should Keep​

• S Kam Curl
• QB Jimmy Garoppolo

The Rams did well to take care of free agents set to become available this offseason during the year. They re-signed Quentin Lake and Nate Landman, who played big roles on the defense last year. Those were two players that the Rams would have pushed hard to keep before free agency anyway. However, the job is not finished. The Rams will still need to make room for two more players that should be brought back.

Curl didn’t have a strong first year with the Rams, but he became one of the most important players in the secondary in 2025. While the Rams had weaknesses at cornerback, safety was one of their strongest position groups and Curl was a big part of that. Curl switched between free safety and playing down in the box where he became one of the best tackling safeties in the NFL. He was second among safeties with 122 total tackles and his 8.3 percent missed tackle rate was just outside the top-10. Curl had three interceptions and the game-changing interception in the playoffs against the Chicago Bears. The Rams would be smart to sign Curl to another two-year deal.

What the Rams do with Garoppolo depends on how they view the quarterback position. Do the Rams trust Stetson Bennett to take over the mantle as the experienced backup in the system and then draft someone in the middle rounds? Still, it might make sense to cut ties with Bennett, draft a quarterback, and roll with Garoppolo. Matthew Stafford has remained healthy over the last two years. At the same time, if something were to happen, Garoppolo can still be trusted if Stafford were to miss a game. Hopefully it doesn’t come to that, but Garoppolo remains a good backup option at 34 years of age.

Rams Have Tough Decisions​

• CB Roger McCreary
• CB Cobie Durant
• CB Ahkello Witherspoon

The Rams will have decisions to make at cornerback, specifically when it comes to Roger McCreary and Cobie Durant. McCreary and Durant are similar in the sense that they are inside-outside versatile. When he played on the outside, Durant was arguably the Rams’ best cornerback. McCreary got a run on the outside in the playoffs and performed admirably. This is going to be an either-or situation and it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Rams move on from both. Still, even needing to rebuild the cornerback room, keeping some familiarity makes sense. Durant is much better as a third or fourth cornerback on the depth chart while McCreary can also be used in a specific role. Depending on the price, the Rams may look to keep Durant on a one-year deal.

Witherspoon spent most of last season injured, but it may be time to move on. He’s a product of the situation in that he’s seen as much better than he is because the players around him simply aren’t up to par. Witherspoon was fine for what the Rams needed at the time, but they are in a place now where they need to upgrade. Depending on how free agency goes, the Rams may opt to bring back Witherspoon, but moving on would be the best path forward.

Time to Move On​

• OT DJ Humphries
• OT David Quessenberry
• WR Tutu Atwell
• CB Derion Kendrick
• LB Troy Reeder
• TE Nick Vannett
• LS Jake McQuaide
• RB Ronnie Rivers

The big one on this list is Tutu Atwell. At the end of the day, this is a partnership that simply hasn’t worked out. The Rams didn’t utilize Atwell as often as they should have and at the same time, for whatever reason, Atwell was phased out of the Rams offense. The blame doesn’t fall on either side as both are to blame. It is simply a pairing that didn’t work. Moving on will be the best thing for both parties.

As far as the rest of this list goes, there shouldn’t be too many surprises. The Rams could bring back Ronnie Rivers, Jake McQuaide, and Troy Reeder for special teams purposes. Still, with a new special teams coach, the Rams may look to go in another direction. While a backup tackle is needed, Humphries wasn’t good in his lone appearance last year.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a.../rams-unrestricted-free-agents-2026-decisions

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

How should Rams approach special teams in offseason?

One of the focal points for the Los Angeles Rams this offseason will need to be special teams. This isn’t a unit that can simply be ignored any longer. After ranking 26th in special teams DVOA and losing multiple games due to special teams errors, this isn’t something that can continue to be put on the back burner. The Seattle Seahawks had the second-ranked special teams unit in the NFL. In college football, National Champion Indiana ranked fourth. While coaching certainly matters, the Rams can’t simply make a coordinator change and expect that to fix everything. They can’t trot out the same group next year and expect different results. Changes are needed.

The Rams have already made a coaching change by hiring Bubba Ventrone and bringing in Kyle Hoke as his assistant. Still, the changes can’t stop there. The Rams will have decisions to make when it comes to Harrison Mevis, Jake McQuaide, and others heading into 2026. Did the band-aids become permanent solutions or were they just band-aids?

Kicker​

Heading into the offseason, Harrison Mevis will be an exclusive rights free agent, meaning that he can be brought back for the league minimum. It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Rams do just that. Mevis added stability to the kicking operation as he went 12-for-13 in the regular season and 6-for-6 in the playoffs, including the game-winner against the Chicago Bears.

Still, it’s fair to add context to that success. Mevis was only asked to make four field goals outside of 45 yards. On those kicks, he was 3-for-4 with a miss against the Seahawks in Week 16. He ended up making one from 50 yards in the NFC Championship game, but for the most part, it was clear that the Rams didn’t trust him from beyond 45 yards. There were multiple times after Week 10 that the Rams opted to punt instead of kicking a long field goal.

• Week 10 – Punted from SF 41 yard line, opting against 58 yard field goal
• Week 12 – Failed 4th-and-4 from TB 40 yard line, opting against a 57 yard field goal
• Week 16 – Failed 4th-and-1 from SEA 39, opting against 56 yard field goal
• Week 17 – Punted from ATL 41 yard line, opting against 58 yard field goal

This isn’t a criticism of McVay for the times that he decided to go for it on fourth down. If there was a benefit to the lack of confidence in the kicking game, it is that McVay got more aggressive. At the same time, it shows the lack of confidence in the kicker’s ability to make kicks from long range. During the same time span, opposing kickers made three kicks from 55+ yards against the Rams.

From 45 yards and in, Mevis was very good. It’s a small sample, but he was 3-for-4 from 45 yards or more with two makes from 50+. His lone miss came from 48 yards against the Seahawks in Week 16. In today’s NFL, kickers are making field goals from 55 yards out with ease. While the Rams can trust Mevis from within 45 yards, that’s also not a way to operate long-term.

The question becomes whether or not Mevis was a band-aid or if he’s the solution. The Rams may also be forced into a corner where Mevis has to be the solution. There are seven unrestricted free agent kickers:

• Daniel Carlson (LVR) – Made 81.5% of his field goals.
• Nick Folk (NYJ) – Made 96.6% of his field goals. 41 years old.
• Joey Slye (TEN) – Made 80% of his field goals.
• Matt Prater (BUF) – Made 90% of his field goals. 41 years old.
• Zane Gonzalez (ATL) – Made 86.4% of his field goals.
• Riley Patterson (MIA) – Made 93.1% of his field goals.
• Eddie Pineiro (SF) – Made 96.6% of his field goals.

Kickers such as Patterson and Pineiro will likely get re-signed by their teams. At 41 years old, Folk and Prater will be emergency options for teams. That leaves Daniel Carlson and Zane Gonzalez. Dominic Zvada from Michigan is seen as the best kicker in the draft with Trey Smack, Will Ferrin, Drew Stevens, and Kansei Matsuzawa behind him.

Smack from Florida had the second-most makes from 50 or more yards last season in college football with five. He was five-for-6 from long range, but made just 81.8 percent of his kicks. Zvada was much lower at 68.2 percent. Matsuzawa made 96.2 percent of his field goals and was one-for-one from 50+. Stevens and Ferrin both kicked under 80 percent as well. It is worth noting that Matsuzawa was PFF’s second-highest graded kicker last season and was 37-for-37 on extra points.

At the very least, one of those kickers should be brought in as an undrafted free agent to compete with Mevis. That’s not to say that Mevis still shouldn’t be the favorite as he was solid after Week 10 last year. He showed the ability to kick in big moments, making the game-winning kick against the Chicago Bears in the playoffs. However, competition is needed.

Punter​

It’s hard to say whether or not Ethan Evans should be on the hot seat. However, with a new special teams coordinator, nothing should be off the table. Evans has improved since his rookie season, but there are still too many ups and downs with him. He’s an average punter. Among 31 punters with 35 or more punts, Evans ranked 23rd in yards per attempt, 28th in net yards, 22nd in punts downed inside the 20, and 11th in return percentage. His average hang time of 4.42 seconds ranked 12th.

Evans had the punt that saved the Rams against the Seahawks in Week 11. However, he also had a punt returned for a touchdown in Week 16 and had a punt blocked in the divisional round against the Carolina Panthers. Those aren’t necessarily all on him, but Rashid Shaheed’s touchdown was a punt right down the middle of the field. On the next punt, Evans’ ball netted only 32 yards to set the Seahawks up at midfield.

Much like Mevis, this isn’t to say that the Rams need to replace Evans. However, his last two seasons have been inconsistent. Even in 2024, Evans had the fourth least yards per attempt and was tied for 16th in net yards. Evans has had good moments, but he’s had plenty of bad ones as well. For as often as he had a good punt, there was a shank or bad punt to follow. Evans will be on the final year of his rookie deal in 2026. The Rams will likely keep Evans, but competition wouldn’t hurt.

Returner​

Xavier Smith is an exclusive rights free agent which likely means that he’ll at least be brought back for training camp to compete. If the Rams sign his ERFA tender, they can bring Smith back for the league minimum. It’s hard to move on from Smith after one bad game in which he muffed two punts. However, Pharoh Cooper was cut for less at the end of 2017 after making a Pro Bowl. Following the muffed punt, Smith was pulled for Kyren Williams. It’s fair to wonder if we are telling a different story had the Rams kept Britain Covey in training camp over Smith.

While Smith had the fifth-most fair catches, he hasn’t necessarily been a threat in the return game. Again, this is another spot where the Rams at least have to add some competition. Could the Rams add Kaden Wetjen from Iowa in the draft? Wetjen had three punt return touchdowns at Iowa in 2025 and led the nation in punt return yards. KC Concepcion is another wide receiver with return experience as is Kevin Coleman Jr. from Mizzou.

On the kickoff unit, Jordan Whittington has been fine, but his longest return was just 38 yards. It’s also time for the Rams to replace Ronnie Rivers. There simply isn’t a player here that teams are afraid of with the ball in their hands. As teams give up more returns with the new kickoff rules, having a threat on the kickoff unit is important. Just this past season, almost 75 percent of kickoffs were returned which doubled from 2023 and 2024.

The Rams don’t necessarily need to replace Smith and Whittington, but there needs to be some competition at these spots. Changes at least need to be explored.

Long Snapper​

Along with making a change at kicker last season, the Rams swapped out their long snapper as well. Alex Ward was replaced with former Rams long snapper Jake McQuaide. However, McQuaide was more of a band-aid rather than a solution. McQuaide is 38 years old and the Rams were his sixth team since 2023. It’s possible that the Rams could bring McQuaide back, but at this point he would make more sense as a special teams assistant on the coaching staff than a player. This is a spot where the Rams will need to scout the undrafted free agents and bring in competition. They could also look at free agency for an experienced option.

Special Teams as a Unit​

An underrated aspect of special teams is the players being asked to play on the coverage and return units. Due to the lack of depth on the roster, the Rams had to draft in the later rounds with a focus on offense and defense. There was a real chance that the players drafted on Day 3 would need to play. Rarely was a player drafted for their special teams prowess. Ben Skowronek was a special teams player at Notre Dame and the same can be said about Nick Scott. However, there have been fewer of those players in recent years.

While D’Angelo Ponds is a smaller cornerback, he has returned two blocked punts for touchdowns and would bring some return ability. Throughout his career at Duke, edge rusher Wesley Williams blocked five kicks. The Rams need to find players that have excelled on special teams and make that the focus on Day 3 when they will have seven selections.

The Rams have career special teams players such as Troy Reeder and Ronnie Rivers set to hit free agency. Needing a change on the special teams unit, it may be best to replace them with a new group of players in the draft.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...27/rams-special-teams-2026-offseason-overhaul

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

L.A. Rams News: No, the NO no-call and the Seattle call are not the same

Rams players react after Greg Zuerlein field goal in overtime to win the NFC Championship playoff football game between the New Orleans Saints and the Los Angeles Rams at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans. Sunday, Jan. 20, 2019. V4saints Rams Nfc Champ 01 20 19 4076

The Seattle Seahawks won the Super Bowl, and for the Los Angeles Rams it’s “coulda would shoulda”, however anyone saying that the missed call featuring the Rams and New Orleans Saints in their 2018-2019 Championship Game is similar to that Seattle play, I don’t see it that way.

My friends, welcome to a Ramblin Random Ramsdon!

The two calls in question are NOT the same type of call. What happened when the Rams played in New Orleans was a “missed” call and it stayed missed, for better or worse. What happened when the Seahawks were awarded a 2-point conversion on Thursday Night Football against the Rams was not just a missed call, but someone from the broadcast calling the league (not the league reviewing it internally), offering their two cents, AND THEN the call was changed because of that third-party interference.

Has that ever happened before?

I’ll be redundant, the Seahawks beat the Rams. The Seahawks won the Super Bowl. Check.

Great, now back to the topic at hand. In the 2018 NFC Championship Game, the ref(s) “missed” a clear pass interference call on the Rams, however we see that happen all the time. Pass interferences get missed. A lot of physical penalties (holding, facemask, ect.) get missed or overlooked. That’s part of the game.

In the Week 16 Thursday Night Game, as far as I can tell, the NFL missed a call (normal), and then someone from Amazon Prime called the NFL to let them know what they missed (not normal), and then the call was overturned (that’s never happened before, or it’s never been documented to happen).

Please correct me if I am wrong, but no 2-point play has EVER happened that way. To the best of my knowledge, no TV or streaming broadcast person has been able to call NFL offices during a game, and change a call, that is exactly what happened in Week 16 of the 2025 season.

It’s new territory, that’s why it’s news.

The Rams blew that game, and a 16-point lead. Not arguing that, but that 2-point play was strange, and its back in the forefront of the news due to the league and sources spilling the beans on how that play was overturned this week.

Why didn’t they tell us this weeks ago? A good and fair question.

Does it matter? No, I guess not. The NFL works in mysterious ways, nothing new about that. I’d be lying if I told you I was done with watching the NFL. I’d be lying if I said the NFL got the call wrong, I think they got it right, but how they got there? That’s the cause for pause and discussion.

You can disagree! I am wrong often.

Time to move on? Never.

Thanks for checking out Turf Show Times and have a great Saturday!

For more discussion consider this article and the comments! Or just stay right here!

And happy Valentine’s Day, you bunch of love bugs.

Top-10 draft prospect falls to Rams in new PFF mock draft (ramswire)​

“Pro Football Focus‘s Trevor Sikkema and Dalton Wasserman went through and picked players for very team in the first round. While they both thought a trade into the top-10 for the Rams was doable, they ultimately settled on staying put and snagging two defensive players with the Nos. 13 and 29 selections.

Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese fell to L.A. at No. 13, while the Rams took Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell at No. 29.“

Three Safeties Los Angeles Rams Could Sign in Free Agency (si.com)​

“The Los Angeles Rams are entering the 2026 offseason as one of the early favorites to win Super Bowl LXI at SoFi Stadium next season. After coming up just short of reaching this year’s big game, plus having league MVP Matthew Stafford on hand, Los Angeles is seemingly a couple of pieces away from winning it all in 2026. However, they must tackle an important offseason.

The Rams are Top 10 in salary cap space to go along with four Top-100 draft picks, including two first-round choices, in this year’s NFL Draft. General manager Les Snead will have plenty of money to work with to coincide with a hefty group of players up for an extension this offseason from the incredible 2023 draft class.“

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/134946/la-rams-news-seahawks-saints-nfl

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

How the Rams can find a new second receiver this offseason

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 29: USC Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) running on a reverse during a college football game against the UCLA Bruins played on November 29, 2025 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Receiver is sneakily a major offseason need for the Los Angeles Rams.

LA is likely to extend star receiver Puka Nacua this offseason. Davante Adams would be best-utilized in a more niche role. The rest of the team’s depth have not demonstrated they are capable of making important contributions on the NFL’s biggest stages.

So where do the Rams go from here? Finding a second receiver and someone capable of slotting in between Nacua and Adams will not be cheap. It will cost LA a pretty penny in free agency to sign a player and possibly a first or second round pick through the draft.

Let’s take a dive into some options:

Free agent options​

Jauan Jennings, 49ers​

The Rams can make a division rival weaker and improve at receiver. Jennings isn’t an overly explosive player but he usually seems to be in the right place at the right time and is dependable. He’s 28 and LA needs to get away from signing older receivers.

Alec Pierce, Colts​

The pairing between the Rams and Pierce makes more sense the more you think about it, at least from a schematic point of view. Pierce is the deep threat capable of blocking that Sean McVay covets.

The sticking point will be the price tag. Pierce could easily command more than $20M annually.

Romeo Doubs, Packers​

The Packers likely won’t or can’t keep Doubs because of their talent logjam at receiver. Doubs could have a surprisingly competitive market if/when he hits free agency. He’s not an exciting deep threat like Pierce, but he is the guy who normally makes that important third down grab.

If you need someone to move the chains, and the Rams do, Doubs could be your guy. His price tag could range between $12-18M annually.

NFL draft options​

NFL consensus boards often show at least one receiver going in the top ten between Ohio State’s Carnell Tate, Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson, and USC’s Makai Lemon. Let’s say one of them make it to #13 for the Rams’ first pick. Would they pull the trigger? Let’s touch on each player and then look at late first round prospects.

Carnell Tate, Ohio State (6-3, 195)​

Tate would largely fill a role in LA that has previously only been addressed with short-term acquisitions in the likes of Sammy Watkins, Odell Beckham, Jr., and Adams. He’s not the twitchiest or explosive player, but he has a frame that you can only find atop the draft order.

Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State (6-2, 200)​

Tyson catches almost everything thrown in his direction, is a fine route runner, and can produce after the catch point. Injury history is a question mark.

Makai Lemon, USC (5-11, 195)​

Before getting excited about Lemon, ask yourself if dropping Jordan Addison into the Rams offense would address the second receiver role. If the answer is yes, Lemon might be the guy for you. They are very similar players and Lemon is more souped up and physical even.

Denzel Boston, Washington (6-4, 209)​

We simply have not seen a receiver like Boston in Sean McVay’s offense. Is there a reason for that, or could the Rams signal a change of direction towards the back of the first round with their second selection?

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-draft/134977/rams-receiver-need-draft-free-agency

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Should Rams restructure A.J. Jackson contract?

CINCINNATI, OH - AUGUST 27: Los Angeles Rams offensive tackle AJ Jackson (77) warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Rams and the Cincinnati Bengals on August 27, 2022, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. (Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

A.J. Jackson only missed one game in 2025, an outcome many doubted would be possible after the Rams left tackle spent much of the summer dealing with a blood clots issue. In fact, Jackson has started all but six games at left tackle in the last three seasons combined and he’s now considered one of the most dependable players at his position in the league.

Is that good enough for the Rams to sort of “double down” on Jackson’s contract by restructuring his deal to save some cap space? And is it even necessary?

Jackson recently talked about how much of a blessing it was to play almost a full season despite those issues.

“It was good, man,” Jackson told theRams.com Monday. “It was amazing, for sure. I’m glad was here with the Rams, because they’re a good organization overall. Sean understood, Reggie, (general manager) Les (Snead) and everyone in the whole building understood was going through, they were there for me for the whole time. So that was probably the best thing for me overall, just to have that support system behind me and just play ball. So it felt good to be here and get over the hump.”

Jackson’s contract: $25.3m cap hit​

The Rams signed Jackson to a three-year, $57 million contract in 2025. His cap hit was only $8.45 million last season, but that number jumps up by almost $17 million in 2026.

Jackson has the fourth-largest cap hit among all left tackles:

• Trent Williams, $38.9m
• Jake Matthews, $27.2m
• Dan Moore, $26.4m
• Jackson, $25.3m

It’s an amazing accomplishment for a former undrafted free agent.

Should the Rams bring down that number with a restructure?

What is a restructure?​

Every year the concept of a contract “restructure” is confused for a re-negotiation or a pay cut. It’s not a negotiation and it’s not a pay cut. It’s merely moving money around to save immediate cap space.

Here’s a brief explanation:

The most simple explanation for a contract restructure is simply taking a portion of a players base salary for a season and converting it into a signing bonus. The player gets their money as the signing bonus at the time of the restructure and reduces how much they are paid throughout the season. In other words, it’s a cash advance which can’t be taken away.

Jackson’s 2026 base salary is a whopping $18.925 million. The rest of his cap hit is a $5 million portion of his $15 million signing bonus and $1.45 million in roster bonuses.

If the Rams restructure his contract—typically a move the team can make without the player’s consent—they would take almost all of that base salary and make it a signing bonus which would then be incorporated into his cap hit over the next two seasons.

The Rams could save up to $8.55 million in 2026 cap space by doing the max restructure of Jackson’s contract.

The down side is that now Jackson’s 2027 cap hit, currently set at $24 million, jumps up to $34 million.

That would be a massive cap hit for Jackson, but also the salary cap will be higher in 2027 than it is in 2026 so it’s a little it easier to absorb.

Do the Rams need it?​

To say the Rams do or don’t need it totally depends on how much the Rams plan to do in free agency. L.A. is currently projected at $48.2 million in 2026 cap space, seventh-most in the league but that’s before any teams make any cap moves.

If the Rams make other cap moves, like releasing Darious Williams and/or Davante Adams, they would also be able to save money. They don’t have any free agents who seem imperative to keep but might want to be powerful players on the free agency and trade market; L.A. also has to pay two first round picks, assuming they make both picks, and those aren’t as cheap as you might think.

So do the Rams need it? Only Les Snead can answer that. But if the Rams need $8.5 million in space, there’s one fairly obvious place to go get it.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-salary-cap/134982/rams-salary-cap-aj-jackson

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

This position is sneakily a major offseason need for Rams

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: Davante Adams #17 of the Los Angeles Rams makes the touchdown catch during the third quarter of the NFC Championship NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

By nearly any measure the Los Angeles Rams had one of the NFL’s top offenses in 2025:

• Yards per game: 1st at 395
• Passing yards per game: 1st at 268
• Points per game: 1st at 30.5
• Rushing yards per game: 7th at 127

On the surface it seems like a wild take to say that LA needs more offensive firepower. But they do.

The Rams can be too heavily reliant at times on star receiver Puka Nacua. Nacua is the engine of the offense and seems to make the play when his team needs it most. But the young pass catcher has been dealt his fair share of injury struggles and plays a very physical brand of football. Nacua doesn’t need replaced, although the Rams do need other options and insurance.

Then there is Davante Adams who led the NFL in receiving touchdowns with 14. Adams helped fix Los Angeles’ recent red zone woes and was nearly automatic with Matthew Stafford at the goal line. However, his work between the 20-yard lines left a lot to be desired.

Adams caught just 52% of the passes thrown his direction. The veteran ranked 21st in target volume but finished 34th in yards. This especially matters when considering that Adams receives high-volume targets in the red zone and on late downs. He’s no longer the ultra-efficient receiver we know and love. That doesn’t mean he no longer has value for the Rams, but he shouldn’t be a 100-target player or every-down staple on offense.

It’s no guarantee that the Rams elect to keep Adams.

The third receiver conversation requires more nuance.

Do the Rams need a bonafide third option if they continue their heavy deployment of 13 personnel? Is there a chance LA runs fewer three tight end sets in 2026 with Tyler Higbee’s contract set to void? These are fair questions and ones the Rams should be asking themselves as they retool the roster for next season.

We also know the team re-signed Tutu Atwell to a one-year, $10M contract last offseason to be the third option behind Nacua and Adams. Atwell fell by the wayside because of the personnel deployment change.

So how will things look moving forward?

Assuming LA retains Adams (which may require a pay cut), the Rams still need a new second receiver in my view. Adams is best-utilized as a role player in the red zone and on third down. Keeping him fresh for key plays in individual games and into the postseason will help the offense in multiple ways.

So where do the Rams find that second receiver? It will not be cheap. The team needs to get away from signing older receivers in free agency after recent disappointing investments in Cooper Kupp, Allen Robinson, and Adams. Improving through the draft would require a first or second round pick in all likelihood.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...4/rams-offseason-needs-receiver-davante-adams

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

L.A. Rams News: How many kicks did Harrison Mevis miss?

Jan 18, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Los Angeles Rams placekicker Harrison Mevis (92) celebrates with punter Ethan Evans (42), offensive tackle David Quessenberry (68) and tight end Davis Allen (87) after kicking the game-winning field goal against the Chicago Bears during overtime of an NFC Divisional Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images | Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Harrison Mevis filled in during the 2025 season to become the Los Angeles Rams kicker out of necessity, and he answered the call by going 12-13 on field goals (plus 6-6 in the postseason) and a clean 39-39 on extra points. Not bad for a “fill-in”.

Mevis’s rise with the Rams is an interesting one, but has he done enough to be around for another year? I would guess fans think so, but I don’t know what the organization is thinking in terms of keeping Mevis, or looking at the draft or free agency.

It’s an interesting spot for the Rams who during the 2024 season had appeared to find their kicker for at least the short-term (if not longer) with Joshua Karty. But in 2025, Karty’s kicking was unstable and hazardous for the Rams and their ability to win, so they replaced him with first-year NFL kicker, Harrison Mevis.

Did the change work? I’ll redirect you to the numbers I shared above, he was basically light’s out except for one missed kick against the Seattle Seahawks in their Week 16 matchup. The Rams blew a 16-point lead and the defense gave up three 2-point conversions. Yes, Mevis missed a kick that game, but blaming Mevis for that loss seems a stretch.

Other than that one miss, Mevis was flawless.

Unless I am missing something, his future with the Rams and the NFL is still to be determined, so this is a story that should be worth monitoring as all 32 teams head towards the 2026 season.

Happy Monday, thank you for checking out Turf Show Times and have a great day! You know the drill, please comment!

Rams’ kicker Harrison Mevis ranks top-10 in new stat (ramswire)​

“The Rams trotted out two kickers in 2025: Joshua Karty and Harrison Mevis. Karty flamed out in his second season in L.A. after missing several kicks and having a few more blocked, while Mevis stepped in and played admirably during the Rams’ long playoff run.

Fansided’s Adam Fromal introduced a way to evaluate kickers, though: Kick Value Added (KVA), which “measures how much value a kicker actually adds (or costs) relative to league expectations from the same distances across the field.”

Rams 2026 NFL draft needs may not be an obvious slam dunk after all (ramblinfan)​

“A future franchise quarterback? A shutdown cornerback? A bookend franchise offensive tackle? The Los Angeles Rams have four draft picks firmly embedded in the first two days of the 2026 NFL Draft. But the team may believe that the needs demand veteran plug-and-play players. General manager Les Snead hinted as much in discussing the scenario of MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford’s return.

And yes, Stafford will be back. And the offseason may be shaping up for Snead to shock the NFL with a blockbuster trade. If that happens, he will certainly be willing to cough up picks for a player.“

Rams could snap 20-year NFL Draft streak by taking one position in 1st round (sportingnews.com)​

“Draft stat of the day: the Rams haven’t used a first-round pick on a defensive back since 2006, a streak that is 8 years longer than any other team in the NFL,” Yates writes. “With two first-round picks and a need for corners, this feels like a logical year to snap that streak.”

Back in 2006, the Rams took Tye Hill with the 15th overall pick, which was the last time that the Rams took a defensive back in the first round. He played just three years with the Rams, recording four interceptions and 16 pass breakups in 28 games.

But, with a need at cornerback and safety, the Rams cannot let the 2026 offseason go by without addressing those positions, especially cornerback.“

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/135021/la-rams-news-mevis-special-teams

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

49ers fans throw water on Seahawks’ OC hire

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 23: Tight ends coach Brian Fleury of the San Francisco 49ers looks on before a preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on August 23, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The NFC West loses more than its fair share of assistant coaches every year to other teams. The Los Angeles Rams watched Mike LaFleur leave to join the division rival Arizona Cardinals. Klint Kubiak of the Seahawks and Robert Saleh of the 49ers also earned head coaching jobs.

But LaFleur wasn’t the only coach poached within the division. The Seahawks also hired Brian Fleury of the 49ers as their next offensive coordinator to replace Kubiak.

There’s no beating around the bush. Seattle’s replacement of Kubiak was one of the single-most important coordinator hires in all the NFL this offseason. Defensive head coaches are almost certain to lose their OC after a stellar year. Whether they can find lightning in a bottle twice is a relatively large uncertainty.

It’s for this reason why Seattle seems primed for regression. Their defense is as good as it gets. Sam Darnold still seems to be on unsettled ground even after winning the Super Bowl. What happens to the Seahawks when they don’t have someone pulling the offensive strings as well as Kubiak?

That is nothing but positive news for the Rams, who may need all the help they can get to get over the Seattle hump. The latest two matchups between these teams were as evenly close as a series can get. Losing an edge at offensive play caller may be all the edge the Rams need to take the division in 2026.

And to throw gas on the fire, 49ers fans seem to mostly be scratching their heads at the Seahawks’ hire:

Instant reaction to the Seahawks hiring Brian Fleury as their new OC. pic.twitter.com/P8ayZW24Nf

— Grant Cohn (@grantcohn) February 15, 2026

Cohn's right—Fleury never called plays. 49ers run game was 30th. But this proves my point: Seahawks are so desperate for 49ers coaching talent they'll take an unproven OC. They won the Super Bowl and still need a 49ers coach. That's how dominant SF's organization is.

— Brandon Fowler (@BrandonEFowler) February 16, 2026

Translation: Seattle missed out on Andrew who followed Klint and the 49ers now get to upgrade at run game coordinator and TE coach #FTTB

— SF Bay Sports Royalty (@SFSportsAndTech) February 15, 2026

I don't believe the Seahawks are making the playoffs in 2026.

Fleury has never called plays before. Their schedule is tougher than this season. Opposing teams will all improve in the off-season.

Let's see how it all plays out but this is a risky hire after winning a SB.

— NFL Commentary (@NFLCenterStage) February 16, 2026

If he was the run game coordinator for SF this year, I'm happy he went to Seattle. Bottom 3 in ypc with CMC and average OL (per PFF) isn't great.

— ShoupNSteaks (@shoup_n) February 16, 2026

One of the more under the radar aspects of Seattle’s OC search is that they planned to hire within and interviewed four internal candidates before handing the keys to Fleury. One of the favorites for a promotion from within was QB coach Andrew Janocko. Janocko instead followed Kubiak to the Raiders as their coordinator. Did this throw a wrench into the Seahawks’ plan?

With the entirety of the offseason still to go, the NFC West is again shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in football. The Seahawks are riding high following their Super Bowl win. Losing even a little ground could be enough for the Rams or 49ers to take their turn at the division crown.

Was Seattle’s hire of Brian Fleury enough to cause a shuffle in the NFC West standings?

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/135068/rams-49ers-seahawks-brian-fleury-oc

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Should Rams use 29th overall pick in a trade?

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 02: Trent McDuffie #22 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on during the second quarter of the NFL 2025 game between Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan Bennett/Getty Images) | Getty Images

For the first time since the 2014 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Rams will have two picks in the first round. Back in 2014, the Rams held the second and 13th overall selections, taking Greg Robinson and Aaron Donald. In this year’s draft, the Rams’ highest pick will be where they made their second pick in 2014 before selecting 29th overall.

There’s no questioning that having two first-round picks is important. The Rams just made the NFC Championship game and will have an opportunity to add two first-round talents to the roster. At the same time, the Rams will have a much better chance to do so at pick 13 than pick 29.

At the end of the day, the 29th overall pick is essentially a second-round pick with a fifth-year option attached to it. The 29th overall pick becomes valuable if used on a quarterback or wide receiver where the option salary is significantly lower than a market-rate contract extension. That’s when the 29th overall pick becomes most valuable. In reality, the Rams will likely be looking to trade down into the early part of the second round as there isn’t much of a difference in terms of talent between pick 29 and pick 40.

This is exactly what the Rams will need to balance. How much value does pick 29 actually have in terms of benefitting the 2026 team? The Rams are in win-now mode in which they are looking to capitalize on the last year of the current window with Matthew Stafford at quarterback. A player at pick 13 can certainly make an immediate impact in a similar way that Jared Verse did as a rookie and top-20 pick. That player will still go through the usual growing pains of adjusting to the NFL, but that’s still a first-round caliber player.

In a given draft, there are roughly 15 players with ‘first-round grades’. ESPN’s Matt Miller recently put out a list of the players that he’s scouted who have first round grades. Miller gave out only 11 first-round grades for the 2026 class which is the lowest that he’s ever awarded.

Using Miller’s grades, there’s a chance that the Rams are already selecting a second-round player at 13th overall. Of course, just because Miller has only 11 first-round grades doesn’t mean that’s the case for every team. However, it speaks to how thin this draft is at the top and there certainly aren’t 29.

Again, the Rams will very likely be looking to move out of the 29th overall pick if they can. If they do move back, it’s worth wondering how much of an impact that player will have immediately and be able to contribute on a roster looking to win a Super Bowl next season.

As we saw last season, the Rams traded out of the 25th overall back to pick 46 to select tight end Terrance Ferguson. Ferguson certainly has a lot of upside, but as a rookie he only had 11 receptions for 231 yards. Ferguson didn’t play more than 20 offensive snaps until Week 7 and spent Weeks 3 and 4 inactive. For the first month of the season, a majority of Ferguson’s snaps came on special teams.

That’s not a knock on Ferguson, but it also paints a realistic picture of the type of impact that the 29th overall pick will have. That’s a player with more of a three-year vision than someone who will come in and start immediately. This is a draft that works in the Rams’ favor in that it’s good at the top at cornerback. Still, the impact that player has as a rookie will be minimal. At best they are getting a CB2 in year one.

While Miller qualifies that Jermod McCoy and Mansoor Delane could work their way into a first-round grade by April, they aren’t there yet. Both have CB1 upside, but they aren’t going to be that on day one. This isn’t a draft with a Sauce Gardner type cornerback at the top of the first round.

This is what the Rams will need to weigh with the 29th overall pick. Is it better to keep that pick and have that fifth-year option? Or is it more valuable to trade out of it and potentially add more draft picks to add depth to the roster? Out of those two options, how much of an impact will the player have on a roster that’s looking to win a Super Bowl?

Those questions being asked are exactly why trading away the 29th overall pick altogether might make the most sense. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell recently suggested a trade that would send Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Rams. In that trade, the Rams would receive McDuffie and a fifth-round pick and then send a first-round pick in return. Said Barnwell,

“The Rams have two first-round picks after trading down in last year’s draft, and having come bitterly close to making it back to the Super Bowl this past season, GM Les Snead has to be thinking about what he can do to get his organization over the top. Matthew Stafford just turned 38, and though he’s coming off an MVP campaign, the Rams don’t know when their veteran quarterback will call it quits. Loading up to try to build a title-winner while Stafford is still slinging makes sense.”

McDuffie is the type of player that would make sense in a trade for the Rams. He’s only 25 years old and at a premium position of need. He’s a two-time All-Pro and has four years of experience, he has the ability to make an impact immediately where a rookie may not be able to. Adding McDuffie wouldn’t mortgage the future in the same way the Jalen Ramsey or Matthew Stafford trade did. The Rams would still have a first-round pick this year and wouldn’t be giving up future draft selections.

This also isn’t exclusive to McDuffie. If there is another trade for an experienced player that the Rams see could benefit them, that makes more sense in the realm of the current team built than picking at 29 or trading back. That’s the type of move that the Rams should be looking at when it comes to the 29th overall pick.

That’s not to say that the Rams can’t find a Day 1 starter or an impact player at 29th overall. However, that’s a spot that the Rams may just trade down at anyway and as seen last year with Ferguson, that player likely isn’t making an immediate impact. If the Rams were able to draft Caleb Down, Sonny Styles, or Delane at 13 and then also trade for McDuffie that would give them a future piece to build around while also filling an immediate need with an experienced player.

The Rams are in a win-now window with an opportunity to go all-in and capitalize one final time with Stafford at quarterback. While having two first-round picks is nice, if the Rams are to capitalize on this window, trading pick 29 for an experienced player might be the best path forward.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...35096/rams-trade-rumors-trent-mcduffie-chiefs

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Can Rams have it both ways this offseason?

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams walks on the field prior to the NFC Championship NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Los Angeles Rams are at a crossroads. After coming up just short of reaching the Super Bowl in 2025, the idea of going “all in” again to get over the hump will be alluring. At the same time this is a franchise that is well-built for the future with recent draft hits and a wealth of players on cost-controlled contracts.

The Rams must choose a path between:

Going “all in” again​

Could mean trading draft picks for veterans who are able to contribute right away. Restructuring contracts and utilizing void years to max out the credit card and make the most of Matthew Stafford’s career remainder. This approach risks jeopardizing the existing core and LA may not have salary cap space to retain all of their ascending players or could reduce their ability to add talent in future years.

Building for the future​

LA has two first round picks. They can find two new cornerstones and lock them into rookie contracts that are cost-controlled for five years. It’s an appealing idea that would add to the young core of Puka Nacua, Jared Verse, Kobie Turner, Steve Avila, Byron Young, Braden Fiske, and others.

But rookies may not be able to contribute to the extent needed for the Rams to reach the Super Bowl in 2026. It’s a more methodical approach that may not help with short-term goals.

Which path will Rams choose?​

Could the Rams chart their own path down the middle instead of choosing between the roads laid in front of them? Conceptually it seems possible to both build through the draft and load up on enough veteran talent to build a competitive roster in 2026.

But getting greedy does have consequences.

The margin between the Rams and Seahawks was extremely thin this season. Will that be true in 2026? Will another team take a step forward and enter the conversation?

We often look forward to the next season with too much context from the past year. Each season starts anew and the ball must be pushed back up the hill. It’s called going “all in” for a reason. That means if you are throwing your hat into the ring in 2026, you must pull every lever available to ensure your spot in the last dance.

And being too aggressive will also force the Rams to make tough choices. Nacua, Turner, Avila, and Young are ready to discuss their next NFL contract. For each expensive veteran the team acquires, the math to retain each one becomes more nuanced.

While it sounds like a good idea to have it both ways, realistically, the Rams are probably better served to fully commit to one of the paths in front of them.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-news/135234/rams-offseason-blueprint-all-in

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

Rams would be ‘insane’ to not trade Puka Nacua, says analyst

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 25: Puka Nacua #12 of the Los Angeles Rams reacts prior to an NFC Championship NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Puka Nacua is coming off of one of the most productive seasons in NFL history, leading the league with 129 receptions and averaging 107.2 yards per game for the Rams as a 24-year-old All-Pro receiver. But at a time when a contract extension should be obvious to everyone in the media, Nacua’s recent history off of the field has opened the door for criticism of his persona, skepticism of his ability to stay healthy, and comparisons to Antonio Brown from some.

That includes Dan Hanzus, former host of the NFL Network’s Around the NFL podcast, who said on his “Heed the Call” podcast on Tuesday that the Rams would be “insane” to extend Puka Nacua rather than trade him while they can still get a first round pick. Co-host Marc Sessler, also a former employee at the NFL Network, agreed that Puka’s stock has dropped in his eyes as a squeaky clean person off the field six months ago, but not necessarily that L.A. should trade him.

“Brilliant player. Obviously. But you are insane if you let him continue on with the Rams — as long as Matthew Stafford is the quarterback and playing at a high level (then keeping Puka is OKAY) … but you will rue the day that you give this man an extension,” said Hanzus. “You trade this man for a first round pick and let someone else handle the Antonio Brown portion of his career. I feel 100-percent certain this to be true.”

Sessler says that he feels completely different about Puka compared to the start of the 2025 season, referencing several videos that have come out since the Super Bowl that would appear to show Puka slurring his words or acting drunk in public, allegedly.

“Is there a player who six month ago, in terms off-field and demeanor, and after the six or seven drunk videos and bizarre videos since then, I feel completely different about this guy.”

But Sessler says that it has not gotten to the point where the Rams should trade Puka now and Hanzus clarifies that he believes the team should wait until after Stafford declines. Except that Hanzus’s timeline doesn’t really make any sense because Puka Nacua is going to holdout for a new contract this year.

Call this a hunch too: It would be surprising if Puka practiced at all this year until he gets a contract extension.

SI’s Connor Orr is the guest on the show and mentions that the Rams have been able to find great receivers under Les Snead like Cooper Kupp and Puka, so believes maybe they could do it again to replace Puka.

For what it’s worth, being able to get more than a first round pick for Puka Nacua is a given. Even though it’s been almost impossible trade receivers for first round picks, Nacua is 24 and there are plenty of teams that would treat it as an opportunity to add a perennial Offensive Player of the Year candidate without thinking twice about his partying or Twitch streaming appearances.

If you put an offer in front of the Chiefs right now, they might even give you the ninth overall pick and next year’s first round pick for Puka Nacua.

But a trade is almost certainly not going to happen. That would be virtually unprecedented for a player of his age and caliber. Although we did see it happen to Micah Parsons last year, the Cowboys weren’t winning anything with him and the sides were far apart on negotiations. The Rams are winning and they need Puka and everyone seems to get along. Maybe if there’s a stalemate in negotiations, but that’s a long ways from happening.

Trading Puka? Now that’s what would be insane.

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...5238/rams-trade-puka-nacua-hanzus-sessler-orr

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

The Rams should select a prospect from this short list

Nov 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) carries the ball against UCLA Bruins defensive back Andre Jordan Jr. (2) in the second half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Los Angeles Rams sit in a position that demands both clarity and boldness. After recent seasons of uneven performance, LA’s front office must balance immediate impact with long-term roster building. Fortunately, a handful of elite prospects—each with the potential to become difference-makers at the professional level—would fit perfectly into the Rams’ evolving blueprint. On a short list that includes Jeremiyah Love (RB), Carnell Tate (WR), Makai Lemon (WR), Jordyn Tyson (WR), Francis Mauigoa (OT), Caleb Banks (DL), Sonny Styles (LB), and Caleb Downs (S), every player brings a unique skill set that could elevate this franchise.

L.A.’s roster isn’t devoid of talent, but it is incomplete. The offense still seeks explosive playmakers, especially in the passing game, while the defense needs more consistent disruption and versatility. Below, we’ll explore why the Rams should strongly consider selecting a player from this curated list and how each could immediately influence the team’s fortunes.

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Jeremiyah Love — Running Back​

The Rams have historically thrived with productive running backs who do more than just carry the ball; they change the tempo of a game. Jeremiyah Love is one such playmaker. Not your traditional between-the-tackles bruiser, Love blends elite burst with pass-catching prowess. His multidimensional skill set would give L.A.’s offense a versatile focal point on early downs and in third-down situations.

Love’s ability to stretch defenses horizontally—paired with breakaway speed—would also help open up play action, alleviating pressure on a passing attack that hasn’t consistently protected the football. With defenses increasingly geared toward hybrid fronts and nickel coverage, a back who can threaten big plays with his feet and hands is invaluable. Love fits this mold and could quickly become one of the most exciting offensive weapons in the league.

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Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon & Jordyn Tyson — Wide Receivers ​

The Rams have star power at receiver but lack reliable secondary targets who consistently demand attention. Adding one of these three wideouts—Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, or Jordyn Tyson—could change that narrative.

• Carnell Tate is a vertical threat with contested-catch ability. He forces defensive coordinators to maintain safety help over the top, creating space underneath for tight ends and running backs.
• Makai Lemon brings crisp route-running and body control that consistently leads to separation. In an offense that values precision timing, Lemon’s skill set is ideal.
• Jordyn Tyson pairs deceptive speed with strong hands; he’s the kind of receiver who not only beats his man but also extends plays after the catch.

Any one of these receivers would add a dimension LA’s passing game has lacked: reliable, downfield playmaking that keeps opposing defenses honest. Right now, LA only has two reliable options when they use 11 personnel: Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. It would be wise for them to add a third receiver especially with Adams nearing retirement.

Makai Lemon 79 REC, 1156 YDS, 14 Total TDs 2025 Season Highlights.pic.twitter.com/TLDc3lpzk3

— Football Performances (@NFLPerformances) February 15, 2026

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Francis Mauigoa — Offensive Tackle​

Offensive line play is the foundation of every successful NFL offense. The Rams, who have a question mark at right tackle, would benefit tremendously from a tackle like Francis Mauigoa. Mauigoa combines powerful anchor strength with developing athleticism—qualities that could immediately improve both the running game and the quarterback’s pocket security.

Adding Mauigoa would not just be depth; it would represent a critical upgrade in a division filled with elite edge rushers. A sturdy offensive tackle gives the Rams flexibility to scheme creatively while keeping their signal-caller upright.

The biggest difference between Francis Mauigoa and the other top OTs in this draft (Freeling, Fano, Lomu) are that Mauigoa’s hands/strike are just levels ahead of everyone else. He has incredible trust in his punch and his use of independent hands is beautiful. OT1! pic.twitter.com/yLkAW46gg6

— LandonTengwall (@LandonTengwall) February 16, 2026

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Caleb Banks — Defensive Lineman​

Defensive line production has a direct ripple effect on the rest of the defense. Caleb Banks is the kind of disruptive force that changes offensive plans. Whether generating interior push or collapsing the pocket from the edge, Banks’ presence would free up linebackers and defensive backs to play more aggressively.

In an era where run-heavy and pass-heavy offenses are X-factor threats every week, a disruptive DL like Banks helps shatter rhythm, force turnovers, and consistently put a defense in advantageous down-and-distance situations. While he is not a need, he certainly gives the Rams the most dominant defensive front in football.

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Sonny Styles — Linebacker​

Linebacker play in today’s NFL must be versatile. Sonny Styles offers that and then some. His range sideline to sideline and instinctive play diagnosis fits perfectly into modern defensive schemes that require linebackers to cover backs, defend the run, and blitz when necessary.

Whether deployed in base sets or sub packages, Styles gives defensive coordinators flexibility. His leadership and playmaking instincts would bolster a unit looking to tighten up against both the ground and passing attack.

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Caleb Downs — Safety​

The Rams are likely to lose Kam Curl in free agency. Caleb Downs is day one starter with his coverage savvy and physical presence. Downs’ instincts in center field allow him to diagnose plays quickly and make adjustments on the fly—critical traits in an NFL defense that must react at the speed of the professional game.

As offenses trend toward multilayered passing attacks, having a safety capable of handling deep responsibilities while supporting the run is a luxury the Rams would be smart to invest in.

Caleb Downs will be a defensive cornerstone in the modern NFL from the safety position pic.twitter.com/h9PmqX8Zgz

— Underdog Fantasy – Josh & Hayden (@UDFootballShow) February 16, 2026

Which of these 8 players would you take if the Rams are on the clock at 13? How would you rank these 8 players?

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-draft/135048/rams-2026-draft-first-round-targets

 

[Los Angeles Rams]

How much will Rams top free agents cost to bring back?

Outside of signing free agents from other teams, the Los Angeles Rams will need to decide which of their own free agents they would like back in 2026. After extending Nate Landman and Quentin Lake during the season, that list is much shorter than it would have been if the Rams had waited. The Athletic recently released its top-150 free agents for 2026 with projected contracts and four Rams players made the list.

S Kam Curl​

The Rams have a decision to make with Kam Curl and it makes sense to try and bring him back if they can. While they typically haven’t paid safeties, Curl proved to be an important part of the defense last season. He didn’t have a great first year with the team, but Curl came into his own in 2025. The highlight of the year came in the NFC Divisional Round as Curl intercepted Caleb Williams in overtime. With that said, Curl was arguably one of the best tackling safeties in the NFL and played a key role in the box in the run game.

It will really come down to how the NFL values Curl. The Rams just paid Quentin Lake and they won’t pay two safeties $10+ million. Right now, The Athletic has Curl valued at $16.25 per year. However, PFF has Curl at $8.75 million per year. If the Rams can get Curl back closer to that number, it’s more likely that he is back in Los Angeles.

• Contract projection via The Athletic: 4 years, $65 million
• Contract projection via PFF: 2 years, $17.5 million
• Market Value via Spotrac: 4 years, $40.18 million
• OverTheCap Value: $9.46 million

TE Tyler Higbee​

Since tearing his ACL against the Detroit Lions in 2023, Tyler Higbee has struggled to stay healthy. He missed most of the 2024 season and seven games last year. His 281 yards were his lowest output since his second season in 2017.

Higbee has been an important part of the offense, but this also feels like a natural time to move in a different direction. The Rams would be better off handing the reigns to Colby Parkinson and allowing Terrance Ferguson to take the natural step forward as he heads into year two.

• Contract projection via The Athletic: 1 year, $7 million
• Contract projection via PFF: N/A
• Market Value via Spotrac: 1 year, $5.35 million
• OverTheCap Value: N/A

CB Roger McCreary​

This is another tough decision that the Rams will have to make this offseason. After trading for Roger McCreary at the trade deadline, he spent most of the season hurt. However, McCreary saw an opportunity in the postseason and played well in limited action. The question is whether that was enough to warrant another contract.

If the Rams can get McCreary back on a cheap contract, it makes sense. However, if that ends up being what The Athletic projects at $12 million per year, that will be too rich for the Rams’ taste. SSomething between what PFF and Spotrac project, $3 million to $6 million, seems more doable.

• Contract projection via The Athletic: 3 years, $36 million
• Contract projection via PFF: 1 year, $3 million
• Market Value via Spotrac: 2 years, $12.31 million
• OverTheCap Value: $2.35 million

CB Cobie Durant​

If the Rams look to bring back a cornerback, Durant makes the most sense. He has shown his value on the outside and is a proven playmaker. However, he also has the ability to play in the slot when needed. It really depends on what Durant is going to command in the free agent market.

Again, if that number is close to The Athletic projection at over $10 million per year, it’s not going to happen. Durant’s OverTheCap evaluation may even be a little high. If that number is closer to $3 million or $5 million, the Rams may look to bring Durant back.

• Contract projection via The Athletic: 4 years, $41 million
• Contract projection via PFF: N/A
• Market Value via Spotrac: N/A
• OverTheCap Value: $7.8 million

Source: https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-a...35253/rams-2026-free-agents-re-sign-decisions