Rams fans face trio of 2025 season-opener starters getting kicked to curb

The Los Angeles Rams have to be a bit concerned. Not even an MVP-worthy performance from veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford was enough to ensure the team competed in a Super Bowl. And now, there is concern that Stafford won't return for next season.

That's a story that NFL pundits have picked up and won't let go until the 2026 NFL season is well underway.

While that sinks in, there are other Rams roster matters that deserve some attention in the present tense. ESPN NFL analyst Louis Riddick was so appalled by the secondary that he called out LA's defense during the NFC Championship Game.

He wasn't wrong.

But there are other areas of concern. Los Angeles cannot afford to hand out free rides, and now is the time to brace for what seems to be the inevitable parting of ways. Who won't suit up for 2026? Here are three veterans who couldn't answer the bell often enough in 2025 to warrant an extension.

Rams trio of 2025 season-opener starters unlikely to return

1. Right tackle Rob Havenstein

Having just completed his 11th NFL season, veteran right tackle Rob Havenstein had the worst season of his career. He played in just seven of 17 regular-season games and never suited up for the playoffs. What a terrible body of work in the last year of his existing contract.

His backup, offensive tackle Warren McClendon Jr., handled the load admirably. Although he struggled in postseason competition, he is expected to improve with experience. And there is the challenge. McClendon needs experience that he won't get if the team restores Havenstein to a starting role.

Unless Havenstein is willing to play a backup role at a deep discount, he may not return.

2, Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon

Since the criteria for returning is showing up on game day, Los Angeles will be forced to part ways with oft-injured defensive back Ahkello Witherspoon. That's a bit disappointing, as the defense seemed to run smoothly when he played.

The problem comes down to a veteran who was injured in Week 2 and only managed to suit up for four more games this season. He did manage to show up for one playoff game, but was reinjured. Tsk tsk.

For the right price and in a diminished role, he could return. But there is no way to scheme a defense around a defensive back sitting on the bench. If he plays, he is a solid contributor. But he's too injury-prone to warrant a risk of an extension.

3. Wide receiver Tutu Atwell

Perhaps the most obvious starter who won't be back for 2026 is wide receiver Tutu Atwell. Talk about a blown draft selection. Projected as a Day 3 rookie prospect, he was selected by general manager Les Snead in Round 2 with the 57th overall pick. It appeared to be a reach at the time, but the true challenge was how adamant fans were about center Creed Humphrey, who was still on the board.

Humphrey dominated for the Kansas City Chiefs.

This was never Atwell's fault. When given a chance, he played his heart out. He caught 42 passes for 562 yards in 2024, so he can play the position. But the team reworked the offense, and the Louisville receiver was written out of a contributing role.

When he was a healthy scratch for the duration of the NFL playoffs, the writing was on the wall. He got paid $10 million to hang around the locker room.

The veterans who were starters at the opening kickoff of the season have one foot out the door. And unless they are willing to return for dirt cheap, the fans are unlikely to see them in Horns again.

As always, thanks for reading.