Rams have one inherent flaw that could cost them everything

The Los Angeles Rams look primed for a special season in 2026. They fell just short this past year, but most believe that had they prevailed over the Seahawks in the NFC title game, the Rams would have taken care of business against the Patriots in Super Bowl 60.

That's not the timeline we're living in, though. With training camp just around the corner, the page has officially turned to 2026 and there's little reason to believe the Rams won't be one of the best teams in football.

Seth Walder of ESPN brought up a valid point, however. When listing the team's X-factor for the upcoming season, Walder said that the health of key Rams players could be something to monitor. He zeroed in on Matthew Stafford's and Davante Adams' health, in particular:

"Less than 12 months ago, Stafford couldn't get on the practice field due to a back issue and was a major question mark entering the season. He ended up playing the whole way -- and winning MVP -- but there's no guarantee that he can repeat that in 2026 at age 38. And Adams has played at least 14 games in each of the past six seasons, but I bring him up because he is 33 and the depth behind him and Puka Nacua is severely lacking. The Rams are the best team in football, but they have a couple of Achilles' heels they must protect."

Health of key Rams players could take them out of Super Bowl contention

It's hard to argue with what Walder is saying. Stafford's health was a major question mark at this time last year and was a big reason many people were skittish about picking the Rams to win the Super Bowl.

As for Adams, it sounds like Walder is more concerned about the depth behind him and Puka Nacua, which makes sense. That's one of the few weaknesses fans could point to on this otherwise stacked roster.

To play devil's advocate, though, the same thing could be said for pretty much every team in the league. We saw how badly the Chiefs crumbled without Patrick Mahomes last season. Most teams are going to take a step back if their starting quarterback gets injured and the Rams are no exception. It's one of the true downsides to having a franchise signal-caller.

Hopefully, Stafford can stay healthy like he did a season ago. If he can, the sky is the limit for the 2026 Rams.

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