Rams projected depth chart gets major shakeup after 2nd preseason game

The Los Angeles Rams coaching staff seldom holds the door open for players to earn a roster spot in the third preseason game. So, what we know about the team, the good, the bad, and the ugly, is what will weigh heavily on the decisions to write in the names of players on the first official team roster and depth chart.

Who will continue into the 2025 NFL season is not as speculative as you may think. Players who do not appear in preseason games almost always have been waived onto the team for the upcoming regular season. Preseason games under head coach Sean McVay have historically benefitted players on the roster bubble, to give them one last chance to either make the team or perform well enough to be claimed elsewhere.

The Rams defeated the Chargers by a score of 23-22 (thanks, Stetson Bennett). But in the process, some players stepped into the spotlight unexpectedly.

Two games in, and we know a great deal about this team and its depth. The Rams appear to have far more talented players in number than available roster spots. And so it's not just a numbers game, but a game of strategy. Who will the Rams release, with the hope that other teams will not claim them? That is a tough question.

Rams projected depth chart gets major shakeup after 2nd preseason game

Offense (26)

The Rams' ongoing saga over starting quarterback Matthew Stafford continues to wind this way and that, as team officials refused to share the outcome of the 37-year-old's second stress test. That continues to set an ominous tone for whatever the announcement(s) may be. Since the expectation for Stafford's healthy return in time for the 2025 NFL season has been trending downward for weeks, I've sent him to IR to start the season.

On offense, running back Cody Schrader continues to make a move for a roster spot. And rookie wide receiver Brennan Presley has appeared out of nowhere to complicate the wide receiver room. Right now, both are on the cusp.

Quarterback (2/(3)) - Matthew Stafford (IR) | Jimmy Garoppolo | Stetson Bennett

Running Backs (4) - Kyren Williams | Blake Corum | Jarquez Hunter | Cody Schrader

Tight ends (4) - Tyler Higbee | Colby Parkinson | Terrance Ferguson | Davis Allen

Offensive Linemen (9/(10))

LT DJ Humphries | Warren McClendon Jr. | Alaric Jackson (IR)
LG Steve Avila | Justin Dedich
C Coleman Shelton | Beaux Limmer
RG Kevin Dotson | KT Leveston
RT Rob Havenstein | David Quessenberry

Defense (24)

The defense was passionate and energetic throughout training camp and the preseason. Even from players who are fighting a tremendously uphill battle. DT Larrell Murchison is making a push to earn a roster spot. And my scorecard places both Pooh Paul Jr. and Shaun Dolac ahead of Troy Reeder.

And edge rusher Brennan Jackson roared back to life, putting up two impressive quarterback sacks to nudge both Keir Thomas and Nick Hampton for one of the remaining roster slots for edge rusher.

On defense, inside linebacker Pooh Paul Jr. was shaken up during the game, opening the door for teammate Shaun Dolac to take center stage, which he did in commanding fashion. CB AJ Green was targeted early in the game, but he rose to the occasion, breaking up two passes in superb fashion.

Green showed up in a big way, and he bumps teammate Derion Kendrick out of the final roster spot for the cornerback position. The Rams' safeties remain intact.

Edge Rushers (4) - Byron Young | Jared Verse | Josaiah Stewart | Brennan Jackson

Inside Linebackers (4) - Nate Landman | Omar Speights | Pooh Paul Jr. | Shaun Dolac

Safeties (4) -Quentin Lake | Kam Curl | Kam Kinchens | Jaylen McCollough

Special Teams (3)

Special Teams (3) - K Joshua Karty | P Ethan Evans | LS Alex Ward

The 53-man Rams roster is nearly settled. With the preseason now down to one final game, many of the backups who have been directly competing for their chance to continue will be benched, and their competition is over. The final preseason game is likely a consolation prize for players who did not make this team, but have a chance to impress other NFL teams in he hope of signing on elsewhere.

And as always, thanks for reading.

Rams projected depth chart gets major shakeup after 2nd preseason game

Rams projected depth chart gets major shakeup after 2nd preseason game

Offense (26)

Defense (24)

Special Teams (3)

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