How will Rams-elevate-two-players-from-practice-squad-for-Wild-Card-Round affect special teams?
Rams Elevate Two Players from Practice Squad for Wild Card Round
The Los Angeles Rams made a strategic move by elevating two key players from their practice squad—outside linebacker Nick Hampton and safety Tanner Ingle—for their critical Wild Card Round clash against the Panthers. This decision signifies the Rams’ commitment to bolstering their defensive roster in a game that could significantly impact their playoff journey.
For Hampton, a fifth-round pick from Appalachian State in the 2023 NFL Draft, this elevation represents a vital opportunity to showcase his skills on a larger stage. Similarly, Ingle’s activation adds depth to the Rams’ defense, offering fresh talent and energy to the lineup.
As the Rams gear up for this high-stakes matchup, the contributions of these practice squad elevations will be pivotal.
Player profiles: Nick Hampton and Tanner Ingle
The Rams elevated two defensive additions from the practice squad to the active roster. These Standard Elevation moves aim to deepen Los Angeles Rams linebacker and safety depth for the Wild Card game against the Panthers.
Nick Hampton
- Background and draft details
- Fifth round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Appalachian State.
- Age 25 and listed as an outside linebacker.
- Contract and roster history
- Signed a four year rookie contract worth $4,139,108.
- Waived in early December and re-signed to the practice squad days later.
- Recent performance and role
- Appeared in 12 games during the 2025 season.
- Recorded 10 total tackles while gaining experience on special teams.
- Potential Wild Card impact
- Because he offers pass rush depth, Hampton can relieve starters on passing downs.
- Additionally, his special teams play could swing field position in close moments.
Tanner Ingle
- Background and profile
- Safety added to the active roster for the Wild Card game.
- Brings secondary depth and flexibility to cover slots or box support.
- Recent movement and usage
- Elevated from the practice squad as the Rams prepare for the Panthers.
- Expected to contribute mainly on special teams and situational defense.
- How he could affect the matchup
- Therefore, Ingle’s tackling and coverage snaps could limit quick Panther gains.
- Meanwhile, his presence gives the coaching staff more rotation options.
Overall, these practice squad promotions bolster depth and adaptability. As a result, the Rams gain fresh legs on defense and special teams for a high stakes Wild Card matchup.
Rams elevate two players from practice squad for Wild Card Round
The Rams made these Standard Elevation moves to shore up depth ahead of a do or die Wild Card game. Because injuries and heavy snaps have taxed the front seven, the team needs rotation options. Therefore, adding Nick Hampton and Tanner Ingle gives Los Angeles more flexibility.
- Pass rush rotation: Hampton can provide situational edge rushing and third down relief for starters.
- Secondary depth: Ingle offers coverage help against quick slot routes and run support in the box.
- Special teams boost: Additionally, both players can impact kickoff and punt units immediately.
- Game planning flexibility: Coaches can dial more exotic looks because they can rotate more players.
- Roster insurance: Meanwhile, elevations protect against late injuries and fatigue late in the game.
The Panthers like quick passes and misdirection, so rotation can disrupt timing. As a result, fresher pass rushers may force hurried throws and turnovers. Likewise, extra defensive backs let the Rams match personnel in nickel or dime.
However, elevations alone will not decide the outcome. Still, Hampton and Ingle can swing key plays on special teams and critical snaps. Therefore, these moves matter for a close Wild Card Round.
| Statistic | Nick Hampton | Tanner Ingle |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 25 | N/A |
| Draft pick | 2023 5th-round | N/A |
| College | Appalachian State | N/A |
| Contract value | Four-year, $4,139,108 rookie contract | N/A |
| Games played in 2025 | 12 | N/A |
| Tackles (2025) | 10 total tackles | N/A |
| Roster movements | Waived in early December; re-signed to the practice squad; elevated to active roster for Wild Card Round | Elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for Wild Card Round |
| Notes | Outside linebacker; pass rush depth; special teams contributor; Standard Elevation | Safety; secondary depth; special teams role; Standard Elevation |
The practice squad elevations give the Rams immediate depth on defense and special teams. Because Nick Hampton brings pass rush depth, he can relieve starters on passing downs. Meanwhile, Tanner Ingle adds coverage flexibility and more reliable tackling on kickoff and punt units. As a result, Los Angeles gains rotation options late in the game and better matchup control in nickel and dime packages. However, these promotions will not decide the outcome by themselves. Coaches must integrate both players quickly to extract value from limited snaps. If executed well, Hampton or Ingle could force a turnover or change field position with a single play. Therefore, special teams moments and situational defensive snaps may carry outsized importance. Moreover, the moves reflect the Rams’ faith in roster depth and the continued value of the practice squad.
Rams News LLC reported these elevations and will track their impact. Visit Rams News for more and follow updates on X. For fans, expect smarter rotations, fresh legs, and a few surprise plays in the Wild Card Round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who were elevated to the active roster for the Wild Card Round?
The Los Angeles Rams elevated outside linebacker Nick Hampton and safety Tanner Ingle. Both players moved from the practice squad to the active roster ahead of the Wild Card game versus the Panthers. These Standard Elevation moves provide extra depth for the playoff matchup.
Why does the team use practice squad elevations for playoff games?
Coaches use elevations to add depth for specific needs and matchups. Because playoff games increase snap counts and injury risk, teams often call up fresh players. Therefore, elevations let coaches adjust game plans quickly.
What is Nick Hampton’s background and recent performance?
Hampton is a 25 year old outside linebacker. He was a fifth round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Appalachian State and signed a four year, $4,139,108 rookie contract. He appeared in 12 games during the 2025 season and recorded 10 total tackles. However, the Rams waived him in early December and re signed him to the practice squad a few days later.
What will Tanner Ingle likely do on game day?
Ingle will add secondary depth and contribute on special teams. Coaches will likely use him in dime and nickel packages. Meanwhile, his tackling and coverage snaps can help limit quick Panther gains.
How might these elevations change game strategy against the Panthers?
Elevations give the Rams more rotation options and tactical flexibility. As a result, coaches can rest starters and deploy situational looks. Additionally, fresh pass rushers may force hurried throws. Ultimately, special teams plays and limited defensive snaps could swing the close Wild Card contest.