Shouting out Rams extension candidates who rose above the muck in Week 1

It was difficult to identify Los Angeles Rams who played well in a miserable Week 1 defeat. But that is exactly what coaches and front office executives must track. LA must mete out limited salary cap funds to extend the players they can among two dozen pending free agents, and money will run out more quickly than the list of candidates.

That will make those decisions quite challenging. Ultimately, some will test the free-agent market and fans will question that outcome. But such is the world of pro sports.

Meanwhile, Week 1 still saw a few Rams players once more prove to be worth their weight in gold, particularly in the trenches.

4 Pending Rams free agents who showed up vs 49ers

Defensive lineman Kobie Turner (PFF grade 75.3)

Affectionately known as The Conductor, Turner let his performance do the talking as he generated seven tackles on 43 defensive snaps. Best of all, he was never out of position. Unfortunately, Turner was alone in his victorious showing.

Turner does not make loud boasts or promises. He suits up and makes plays on game day. As the Rams ready to welcome back Aaron Donald, The Conductor's presence ensures that he has a reason to return.

Left guard Steve Avila (PFF grade 84.9)

Perhaps the brightest performance in Week 1 was that of left guard Steve Avila. Unlike previous seasons in which he got off to a shaky start, he came out guns blazing in the 2026 season opener. With that solid performance, fans can expect even better results going forward. He was superb at run blocking. Unfortunately, he did not dominate in the passing game.

Center Coleman Shelton (PFF grade 83.2)

Despite being the smallest offensive lineman, Shelton continues to play at a high level. His run blocking continues to be his best feature, and he routinely cleared the path for Kyren Williams and Blake Corum. He was less effective in pass protection, but he helped ensure that nobody along the offensive line surrendered a sack.

Honorable mention: Puka Nacua (PFF grade 76.0)

While not one of his better performances, Nacua hauled in five of nine passes for 74 yards, including a 41-yarder. While LA's rushing offense proved dependable, Nacua was the only reliable receiver in Week 1. That's not a very high bar; he converted only 55.6 percent of targets.

Let's face it, the main problem in the passing game was Matthew Stafford. If the starting quarterback is sluggish or inaccurate, there's not much the receiver can do. At least Nacua managed to put the Rams in position to score. Unfortunately, one touchdown is an NFL offense that needs attention.

Unless this team rebounds quickly and dramatically, many players may find themselves seeking new teams in 2027. Still, a few showed up in Week 1. Let's hope more do the same in Week 2.

As always, thanks for reading.

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