With roster cutdowns in the rearview, it's worth considering ex-Rams QB's insights

Like all fanbases, Los Angeles Rams fans face mixed emotions every year at roster cutdowns. And that's perfectly natural. It's a bittersweet event, for sure. Former Rams quarterback Jim Everett believes that the cutdown deadline is the toughest day in the NFL. He's not wrong.

The Rams' first wave of roster cuts held a few surprises, and it only got harder from there. Many thought cornerback Cam Lampkin deserved a roster spot. Ultimately, Los Angeles gambled on Lampkin clearing waivers so could sign with the practice squad. That's just one example of how coaches' perceptions differ from fans'. Luckily for the Rams, Lampkin is back.

For players, roster cutdowns can be a tense day marked by farewells and hopes put on hold. But there is always a silver lining. Many Rams who did not make the initial 53-man roster put up quality preseason footage. Of the players released, nearly half returned to the practice squad.

Strong preseason film could help the rest draw other teams' interest as rosters take their final Week 1 shape in the coming days, or lead to a midseason signing due to injury.

Former Rams QB Jim Everett offers a player-based perspective

For fans, cutdown day can feel scripted. As a former player, Everett is familiar with the human element. Inevitably, individual players encounter setbacks. It can be difficult to rebound after being labeled expendable; opportunities and roster slots don't grow on trees. Some careers don't continue.

That's the emotional toll of sports. For every winner, there will be at least one loser. Of the 90 players on any team's summer roster who compete throughout training camp and preseason, little more than half will earn a spot.

A handful of Rams who earned a spot in 2025 did not repeat that achievement in 2026. Running back Jarquez Hunter was traded rather than be lost to a waiver claim after his inevitable release. His new team, the Miami Dolphins, then promptly waived him. Defensive lineman Larrell Murchison went from the 53-man roster to the practice squad.

As events unfold at the end of each preseason, no one likes the painful news of players being released: the players themselves, family, friends. Many will find new opportunities. Many will not.

As the wave of roster moves finally subsides, Everett's perspective is worth keeping in mind. LA's initial roster is set, but for players like recently cut Rams rookie Tim Keenan III, it's back to square one.

As always, thanks for reading.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow