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Updates from Week 4
Quarterbacks
Last season saw Stafford battling through injuries, with limitations imposed on his throwing and a restrictive offseason. This year has been a different story. The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue offered her assessment of Stafford: “Stafford is in better shape, can move better, the arm is there, no limitation with the arm, and he's got that edge back. He is an elite quarterback that can still throw it around. Arm angles are there, the no-look passes; it's been fun to watch. If he can stay healthy and they can keep him upright, I really think he will have a special year. In a vacuum, he looks outstanding.” Backup Stetson Bennett had an uneven preseason, culminating in a challenging final game where he completed just 4-of-9 passes for 14 yards and threw two interceptions. Despite this, he showed enough promise to secure the No. 2 role behind Stafford. If the Rams decide to carry a third quarterback, Brett Rypien appears to be the frontrunner, especially after completing 7-of-13 passes for 67 yards and rushing for an additional two yards against the Broncos.
Running Backs
Cam Akers and Kyren Williams had their most impressive practice week to date, giving them solid momentum as they head into the regular season. In a contract year, Akers aims for a productive season to enhance his prospects for an improved contract in a league that is undervaluing the running back position. Regarding the depth chart, Akers and Williams are the top two running backs. Reports suggest that Ronnie Rivers has done enough to secure the third spot, while rookie Zach Evans is also likely to make the team. This puts Royce Freeman in a precarious spot. In the final preseason game, Ronnie Rivers carried the ball six times for 32 yards, Zach Evans carried seven times for 23 yards and caught one pass for six yards, while Royce Freeman carried four times for 14 yards, made two catches for seven yards, and had one kick return for 15 yards.
Wide Receivers
Despite Cooper Kupp missing the third preseason game, there's little reason to worry about his availability for the regular season. Kupp ramped up his activity during practice from Monday to Thursday and voiced confidence in his readiness for Week 1. “Game one, I'm playing,” he insisted, “when we got back running routes... we'd go in, throw whatever it was, 30 balls, and go 30 for 30, and he put some in some good spots.” Kupp's absence during much of camp allowed Stafford to build rapport with the younger receivers. The Athletic’s Rodrigue praised Van Jefferson's strong performance during the past week of practice, emphasizing his energy and impact. In terms of the depth chart, Kupp and Jefferson are the starters. Tutu Atwell and rookie Puka Nacua will see playtime as the third and fourth options, respectively. Expect Nacua to receive more playing time than typically seen from a Rams rookie. Ben Skowronek's special teams versatility likely secures his spot. Demarcus Robinson and Tyler Johnson were also good this summer, leaving the front office with difficult decisions in finalizing the roster.
Tight Ends
Tyler Higbee is firmly established as the starter and has consistently impressed. Brycen Hopkins takes the second spot. Hunter Long and Davis Allen are likely to set as the No. 3 and No. 4, respectively. ESPN’s Field Yates reported that Hunter Long passed his physical and came off the PUP list. Coach Sean McVay had good things to say about rookie Davis Allen, highlighting his effortless catching ability and confident, soft hands. Despite Allen's limited camp participation, the coaches are enthusiastic about his long-term potential.
Kickers
Rookie Tanner Brown got only four field goal attempts in the preseason and missed his only one in the preseason finale from 39 yards, leaving him 2-for-4 overall. He was cut, and the team will sign another kicker.
Defense
Expectations must be moderated for the defensive side of the team this year. Given the Rams' salary cap constraints, they've chosen to field a younger, less experienced defense, hoping for player development. While the secondary has shown progress this offseason, the defensive front has struggled to defend against the run, posing a potential issue. Regarding the Rams' concerns about defending the rush, Jourdan Rodrigue from The Athletic remarked that opposing teams will likely prioritize running plays to control the ball, exhaust the Rams' defense, and keep the offense off the field. It's likely the Rams will need to sign an affordable veteran for the defensive line before the season starts. On a positive note, rookie outside linebacker Byron Young and rookie cornerback Tre Tomlinson have had standout training camps, emerging as potential stars. Young has already secured a starting position.
Returners
The Rams lack experienced returners on their roster but appear content to enter the season with rookie Puka Nacua and sophomore Kyren Williams handling punt and kick returns, respectively.
Updates from Week 3
Quarterbacks
The Rams conducted joint practices with the Las Vegas Raiders this week. Head coach Sean McVay leverages these sessions to create game-like scenarios for the starters, reserving preseason games for roster depth development. During joint practices, Matthew Stafford looked sharp. Stafford highlighted the benefits of facing the Raiders' defense, delving into scheme analysis and coverage assessment during his press conference. He emphasized building chemistry with wide receivers Tutu Atwell, Puka Nacua, and Van Jefferson. Stetson Bennett had more of an up-and-down week. McVay wants to see more consistency and smart decision-making from Bennett. The rookie started the game this week and went 15-of-24 for 142 yards, one interception, one carry for four yards, and a rushing touchdown. Bennett had a difficult first half but got things going in the right direction after he led the Rams on an 11-play, 75-yard touchdown drive. Brett Rypien went 4-for-4 for 14 yards and one sack in garbage time.
Running Backs
McVay commended Cam Akers for his consistent performance and strong showing during joint practices. The coach expressed confidence in Akers' potential to make a significant impact. It's worth noting that Akers has gained around 5 pounds this year, transitioning from 212 to 217 pounds. Akers got into an altercation with Raiders’ star defensive end Maxx Crosby. Kyren Williams is also having a good summer, showing patience and trusting his line to open holes for him. In the preseason game, Ronnie Rivers had nine carries for 42 yards and one kick return for 18 yards; Zach Evans had eight carries for 20 yards and one reception for 7 yards; and Royce Freeman had two carries for six yards and two receptions for three yards. For a deeper analysis of Zach Evans' performance in the first preseason game against the Chargers, refer to Footballguys' Matt Waldman's film review thread.
Wide Receivers
Cooper Kupp did not participate in this week's joint practices as the Rams are cautiously managing his return, given that hamstring injuries can linger. Nevertheless, Kupp is set to participate in next week's joint practices with the Denver Broncos. Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic noted that Kupp is in good shape and is engaging in various activities, including working out with the medical staff. She said it’s “definitely a precautionary thing." Kupp's absence provided opportunities for other receivers to shine. McVay praised Van Jefferson for his contributions during the joint sessions, highlighting his growth and importance within the offense. Tutu Atwell emerged as a standout player, consistently making impactful plays downfield. McVay highlighted Atwell's strong work ethic, adaptability, and chemistry with quarterback Matthew Stafford. Additionally, rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua deserves praise for his physicality, assertive catching, and fearlessness in challenging situations. Nacua was a healthy scratch against the Raiders, serving as a further indication he’s secured a role on the first-team offense. In the preseason game, Ben Skowronek had two receptions for 25 yards; Demarcus Robinson had two receptions for eight yards; Tyler Johnson had three receptions for 35 yards; and Xavier Smith had one reception for 25 yards and one carry for 4 yards. Smith's exceptional catch on a seam route in man coverage was a highlight of the game, drawing praise from Stetson Bennett: "He made an outstanding play." Smith has shown promise during training camp but faces stiff competition for a roster spot.
Tight Ends
Tyler Higbee remains consistent as the clear-cut starter. But don’t forget about Brycen Hopkins, who is having a standout camp, too. The coaches are disappointed that Hunter Long is sidelined by a quad injury. Despite this setback, McVay believes in Long's potential. Rookie tight end Davis Allen rejoined practice this week after recovering from a hamstring injury. He performed exceptionally well in the preseason game, catching eight passes on eight targets for 53 yards.
Kickers
Rookie Tanner Brown converted a 25-yard field goal and two extra points in the defeat. While hasn’t been asked to make a long kick in a preseason game yet, the team appears comfortable heading into the season with Brown. According to special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn, Brown's miss in the first preseason game was his first of the entire summer from under 50 yards, and Blackburn also expressed confidence in Brown's leg strength.
Defense
Star defensive tackle Aaron Donald engaged in a full pregame dress rehearsal for the Week 2 preseason game due to his impending family situation—he is expecting a new baby next week. Consequently, he won't be participating in joint practices with the Denver Broncos. Rookie outside linebacker Byron Young had a productive week, and the coaches anticipate a significant role for him. He didn’t play in this week’s game in deference to his already-established role. The defensive line lacks size and physicality (outside of Donald), so the coaches are employing a “gap-and-a-half” defensive strategy where each player is responsible for their primary gap and half of another. As Rodrique described, success in this defensive system hinges on technique rather than sheer size. Expect the team to look hard at veterans cast off by other teams in a few weeks. Backup rookie cornerback Tre Tomlinson had a strong performance against Davante Adams in 11-on-11 drills this week and may see increased playing time as the season progresses. In the week's preseason game, backup inside linebacker Jacob Hummel made a Pick-Six; Jordan Jones, Hummel, Jaiden Woodbey, and Zach VanValkenburg led the team with five tackles each; and new addition John Johnson III accumulated four tackles.
Offensive Line
Right tackle Rob Havenstein was forced from joint practices with the Raiders with a neck stinger, although coaches expect him to be ready for Week 1. Alaric Jackson holds the lead over Joe Noteboom at left tackle. Noteboom has been out with an undisclosed injury, but he could factor at left guard, where rookie Steve Avila is currently projected. At center, Coleman Shelton is getting reps over Brian Allen. Tremayne Anchrum looks to have secured the right guard role. The Rams' line ranks 28th overall, reflecting several unresolved questions.
Updates from Week 2
Quarterbacks
Matthew Stafford's commitment and leadership shined this week as he ran sprints after practice. Head coach Sean McVay said, "I think it says that's the kind of guy you want leading the way, and he loves football. You guys see he's out here, he's always a competitor, he's back and forth chirping with Raheem Morris (DC), motivating his teammates, and that's not exclusive to the offensive guys. He's one of those guys; he's an igniter." Stafford took a scheduled day off last week but has been out there all this week and has been impressive. It's not in the works for him to play much in the preseason, but expectations are for him to be ready for Week One as, according to Albert Breer of SI.com, “Matthew Stafford is healthier than he’s been in years.” The battle for who backs up Stafford remains ongoing between Stetson Bennett and Brett Rypien. Rypien got the first crack starting Saturday in the preseason game. He went 3-for-6 for 11 yards with one carry for 6 yards. Bennett came in right after Rypien and played well into the second half. He went 17-for-29 for 191 yards and a touchdown. Bennett was nearly intercepted a couple of times in the game. Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic said, "Bennett is looking way more comfortable and confident the longer he's in the game." Signs out of camp suggest Bennett will likely be the No. 2, and the Rams will only keep Rypien if they decide to roster three quarterbacks.
Running Backs
According to The Athletic’s Rodrigue, Cam Akers looks good and breaks off chunk plays in camp. Kyren Williams has also looked great and has laid claim to the No. 2 role. Rodrigue calls Akers the home run hitter, while Williams is the on-base hitter. Williams isn’t scheme-dependent because of his receiving skills, and the regular-season workload could be a traditional split where Akers handles early downs and obvious run situations while Williams plays largely on passing plays. Ronnie Rivers, Zach Evans, and Royce Freeman all competing for bench roles. In the preseason game, Evans carried the ball eight times for 34 yards, Rivers six times for 31 yards, and Freeman seven times for 26 yards and one touchdown with one receiving target. Rivers also had two kickoff returns; he could stick on the roster for his special teams contributions even if he’s not part of the offensive rotation.
Wide Receivers
Cooper Kupp's return remains uncertain. The team is being cautious about bringing him back. Coach McVay explained, "They haven't told me a date, but I know it's the freaking cliché coach answer, but it is a day at a time, and with him, I think you want to be able to continue to ramp him up in some of those controlled settings where he's really opening up, hitting some of his high-speed yards." McVay goes on to say "...but we want to be able to make sure that we get him out here when he can return to performance, not just return to play, and perform at the level that he's capable of." Van Jefferson has been a stand out in recent practices. "I think he's strung together his best practices the last couple of days. He's confident, he's playing violent at the point of attack, he's making contested catches. I think he's seeing coverage contours really well, he's able to win and work edges on some of his isolation opportunities, and that's the Van that we know," noted McVay. Even with Kupp out, Jefferson has gotten plenty of veteran rest but has been outstanding in practice. Tutu Atwell has the clear edge for the No. 3 role. He was given the night off along with other projected starters against the Chargers and is listed as a starter on the unofficial depth chart. Rookie Puka Nacua and veterans Ben Skowronek and Demarcus Robinson are the other competitors for a rotational spot. They started against the Chargers. Nacua had three receptions for 32 yards and a touchdown on five targets. Skowronek (2 catches for 7 yards) and Robinson (1 catch for 9 yards) made less of an impact. Austin Trammell, Tyler Johnson, and Lance McCutcheon opened the second half, and Johnson stood out with five receptions for 70 yards on seven targets. That trio faces long odds to make the 53-man roster, as it requires an injury or the Rams to keep more than six active receivers.
Tight Ends
According to the Locked on Rams podcast, the team is likely keeping four tight ends on the 53-man roster –Tyler Higbee, Brycen Hopkins, Hunter Long, and Davis Allen. Higbee is entering his 8th season and is the unquestioned starter. Hopkins has been impressive at camp, is one of the best blockers on the roster, and has performed well in situational drills. Long is on the PUP list, nursing a groin injury. Rookie Allen is out with a hamstring injury but still projects for a roster spot. Nikola Kalinic and Christian Sims are longshots but still fighting for roster spots. The team also brought in undrafted rookie Camren McDonald out of Florida State; he’s trying to show enough to land on the practice squad.
Kickers
Rookie undrafted rookie Tanner Brown had a mixed performance in the first preseason game, hitting two extra point attempts and making a field goal from 39 yards. However, he missed a 46-yard kick. The Rams should try to get him as many attempts in the next two preseason games as possible to see if he can handle longer distances.
Defense
This week's big news on the defensive side of the ball is the signing of safety John Johnson III to a one-year veteran minimum contract. Coach McVay said, "Obviously, we all love 'JJ,' but we're just kind of in the early stages of getting him acclimated, and hopefully, we'll get him more and more snaps, but we won't play him in the preseason." Johnson III spent time in Cleveland for the last two years after four seasons with the Rams. He brings a veteran presence to a young, inexperienced defense. Inside linebacker and team captain Ernest Jones had a terrific training camp and will likely wear the green dot (as the defensive play-caller) this season. Cornerback Cobie Durant is having a great summer, too. The coaches are moving Durant all around the field, and he’s shown impressive ball skills. Starters Aaron Donald, Ernest Jones, Cobie Durant, Derion Kendrick, Jordan Fuller, and John Johnson all sat against the Chargers. Michael Hoecht, Byron Young, Marquise Copeland, Earnest Brown, and Bobby Brown were the starters on the defensive front. Christian Rozeboom and Jake Hummel started at inside linebacker. Quentin Lake and Russ Yeast – who had great camps – started at safety. Tre Tomlinson and Jordan Jones started at cornerback. Jordan Jones and Keri Thomas led the team with five tackles each. Thomas also had 1.5 sacks with two tackles for loss.
Returners
Rookie receiver Puka Nacua and second-year tailback Kyren Williams will handle punt and kick returns, respectively.
Updates from Week 1
Quarterbacks
On Monday, Matthew Stafford took a "pre-planned" rest day but also used the opportunity to mentor Stetson Bennett. With Cooper Kupp sidelined, Stafford had more reps with other receivers, and he expressed satisfaction with how they stepped up. He specifically mentioned Puka Nacua, Tutu Atwell, and Tyler Higbee. As for Bennett, he initially faced some challenges at the start of camp, but throughout the week, he found his rhythm and improved his decision-making skills and accuracy in throwing the ball. Commenting on Bennett's performance, head coach Sean McVay said, “You know, what I really like about him [Bennett] is if a play doesn’t go well, he’s able to reset himself and move on to the next play. You can definitely see the athleticism that was on display throughout his career at Georgia, and I think he’s becoming more and more comfortable.” The battle for the second-string quarterback position is ongoing, with both Bennett and Brett Rypien being viable contenders.
Running Backs
Kyren Williams has been drawing attention this week. With Sony Michel's retirement, Williams is expected to take on the No. 2 role. Stafford spoke highly of Williams: "He's a player that might not be well-known to many due to an injury he sustained last year during training camp. It took him some time to recover, but he’s the kind of backfield player who can step up effectively in both the run and pass game when Cam [Akers] needs a breather." Akers is settling into his role as the lead back and has had a strong camp. Reflecting on his role, Akers said, "I just want to prove myself right in every aspect. Obviously, I want to be a team player; that comes first, but my goal is to demonstrate that I'm one of the best backs in the league. I believe time will vindicate this." Both Zach Evans and Royce Freeman have shown glimpses of potential and could conceivably overtake Williams as the backup with a strong preseason.
Wide Receivers
Cooper Kupp left practice last week with a hamstring injury. The Rams are approaching his recovery with caution. McVay clarified, "It's really day-to-day. He just felt a little tweak. It was a red zone route, just felt a little tightness in his hamstring. I don't think it's anything to be overly concerned with, but [we] want to be able to be smart with him, and I'm hopeful to get him back out here sooner than later.” With Kupp's absence, Tutu Atwell and Puka Nacua have stepped up and are strong contenders for the No. 3 role. Stafford was particularly impressed with Nacua, commenting, “Yeah, he did a nice job, made some good plays. He even drew a pass interference on a long ball down there, which I thought was a well-executed move by him, despite the ball being slightly underthrown by me. He managed to skillfully engage with the defender to get that call for us.” Receivers coach Eric Yarber spoke highly of Atwell's performance to date, describing him as a dynamic player. He said, "Tutu is like a little ant; pound-for-pound, he's one of the strongest on the team. He has an innate ability to block. Once he shows his capability, we encourage him to replicate it. The key is to be persistent and bothersome to the opponents, like a mosquito. Blocking on the perimeter is about desire, attitude, and technique. It doesn't require overpowering physicality, and that's the lesson he's learning now." Van Jefferson was given two rest days this week. While this might be routine, given the Rams' history with injuries, it's worth monitoring. Nonetheless, Stafford praised Jefferson, saying, "He and I got plenty of practice together. He was frequently in town this offseason as well, so we had ample time to work together after the official training period ended. I've had plenty of practice with a lot of the guys, but it's always great to have Van back out here, running, flying around, and making plays."
Tight Ends
Tyler Higbee's output has surged this week, likely due to Kupp's injury. Higbee has been particularly impressive in the red zone, standing out as one of Stafford's preferred targets. Given the Rams' somewhat limited depth in the tight end position, Higbee is expected to continue being a crucial component in the passing game. Brycen Hopkins had a strong week, completing catches from all three quarterbacks and accumulating significant yardage during the 2-minute drills.
Kickers
Rookie free agent Tanner Brown is the sole kicker in camp, aiming to maintain this status. Special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn has praised Brown for his leg strength, mental makeup, and clean strikes. Blackburn notes that Brown’s consistency is boosting the team's confidence in him. The Rams are allowing Brown a shot to prove himself but are keenly observing other teams’ kicker battles, looking for potential alternatives.
Defense
Cornerback Derion Kendrick has been absent from the last two practices due to a hamstring issue, but according to McVay, he's making encouraging progress toward a return. With Kendrick unavailable, more opportunities at the outside corner position have fallen to Ahkello Witherspoon, who returned to practice after thumb surgery, and Robert Rochell. Outside linebacker Ochaun Mathis had to limp off the field during Monday's practice after he "tweaked his knee." He was eventually taken to the locker room and is anticipated to be sidelined for a few weeks. On a brighter note, the defense had some highlights, including a prominent increase in responsibility for defensive lineman Earnest Brown IV and safety Russ Yeast, who continued their strong performance from the first week of camp. Safety Tanner Ingle's execution of a run fit drew commendation from both teammates and coaches. Additionally, defensive back Tyon Davis disrupted a carry by Zach Evans with a punch-out, and outside linebacker Daniel Hardy then recovered the loose ball.
