Rams rookie class will have to fight harder than ever to make their mark

Despite drafting just five rookies this year, theoretically mitigating any expected roster crunch, the Los Angeles Rams will face difficult decisions during and after training camp. OTAs merely set the stage for the true competition. Training camp is on the doorstep, and so is the pressure to carve out a roster spot.

They are not on their own, of course. Each will have a chance to learn from Rams veterans. But the NFL is not a participation sport. Even rookies must earn their respect, role, and roster spots.

That becomes problematic for a team with Super Bowl aspirations. While none of the 2026 draft picks are expected to start, contributing at all could be extremely difficult on a roster as stacked as the Rams'. Unlike established veterans, the rookies will have to settle for whatever reps come their way.

Rams preseason will offer young players a chance to shine

At first, the Rams' preseason strategy of featuring rookies and fringe veterans seems a bit strange. But when you think about it, it all makes perfect sense. Players competing for roster spots and playing time deserve a shot at the spotlight, if only in exhibition games.

Even with depth issues at a few positions, the 2026 Rams roster has a backlog of talent. This year's youngsters arrive with even tougher odds than the 2025 draft class. After all, they'll be competing with returning veterans, last year's rookies, and new additions for a chance to impress coaches.

Let's break down this year's draft picks and who they will hope to succeed in the not-so-distant future:

• QB Matthew Stafford -> QB Ty Simpson
• TE Tyler Higbee -> TE Max Klare
• OT Rob Havenstein (retired) -> OT Keagan Trost
• WR Davante Adams -> WR CJ Daniels
• NT Poona Ford -> NT Tim Keenan III

If they perform well in training camp, all five could earn roster spots. But it's no sure thing. Unlike other teams that eagerly reserve a seat for drafted rookies, for better or worse, the Rams offer no such assurances.

In Los Angeles, it's sink or swim. The Rams' robust rookie class may never have faced tougher odds to make the roster since head coach Sean McVay arrived in 2017. When the dust settles, we can be confident that any rookie who makes the team is the best of the bunch.

As always, thanks for reading.

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