Rams Eyeing 2026 Contention Amidst Off-Field Distractions

The Los Angeles Rams are expected to contend in 2026, with reigning MVP Matthew Stafford projected to perform at an elite level if healthy.

Coaching and Offensive Prowess

Head coach Sean McVay is widely considered a leading play caller in the league. The Rams' offense, which dominated in possession and passing efficiency last season, returns most of its key personnel.

Defensive Reinforcement

The team addressed its primary weakness at cornerback by acquiring Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson during the offseason, shoring up a secondary that was previously a liability.

Concerns on the Horizon

Potential obstacles include intense competition in the NFC West and significant off-field issues.

• Puka Nacua's Legal Troubles: Receiver Puka Nacua entered rehabilitation in December 2024 and faces a lawsuit for assault and battery stemming from an incident on New Year's Eve 2024.
• Draft Controversy: The Rams selected quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, sparking debate about using a first-rounder on a developmental prospect for a win-now team—and whether McVay supported the pick.

A Calculated Gamble

This selection suggests the organization believes it has sufficient talent to win a championship without immediate help.

The decision to invest a high draft pick in a future quarterback rather than an instant-impact starter signals confidence in the current roster's ability to compete for a title in 2026.