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Rams aren't about to abandon investment strategy that continues to pay off

OC Nate Scheelhaase didn't have to beg the team to fund his offense, that's for sure.
Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase.
Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Los Angeles Rams love offense. Even when they have struggled to put up points, they have invested heavily in the offensive side of the football. So it comes as no surprise that after topping the NFL in scoring, LA's offense is still the most expensive in the league. And while the team has allocated more payroll than usual to the defense, don't look for dramatic changes anytime soon.

That's great news for new offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, who takes over a unit loaded with playmakers. But it comes at a price, and that disparity in spending distributes more of a burden onto defensive coordinator Chris Shula and special teams coach Bubba Ventrone.

Still, money talks. And the Rams have been shouting "offense!" for years. Don't expect that to end. While LA has drafted quarterback Ty Simpson, who is relatively inexpensive, it must yet set aside funds to extend almost all starting offensive players at season's end.

Rams tradition of paying offense won't end anytime soon

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Los Angeles may be amid rapid changes this season. Still, let's not conclude the Horns will suddenly operate by random chaos. General manager Les Snead is still following familiar trails to success. One such key is to invest in the offense.

LA is projected to set the high-water mark when extending wide receiver Puka Nacua. Looking past his off-field concerns, the former BYU star has earned it. The Rams will also be hard-pressed to keep their starting offensive line. Guards Kevin Dotson and Steve Avila, tackle Warren McClendon, and center Coleman Shelton are all pending free agents. Extending four linemen simultaneously is a tough task.

But 2027 is still nearly a year away. 2026 Rams training camp is nearly underway, and the team has a full season of what could be one of its best groups ever. The greatest task facing the Rams now is how to pack so much talent into its 53-man roster.

The offense remains loaded for bear this season. While LA topped all 31 other teams in 2025, the 2026 version has the potential to be even more explosive. Adding Kliff Kingsbury to an already impressive coaching staff will only help.

Elite coaching talent is in command of an elite group of playmakers. The Rams may have some tough calls to make next year, but for now, expect the NFL's top offense to show up once more.

As always, thanks for reading.

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