How will Rams right tackle plan after Havenstein retirement?
Rams right tackle plan after Havenstein retirement sits at the center of the Los Angeles Rams’ immediate roster work. Rob Havenstein retired after a decade in Los Angeles and 148 regular season starts, leaving a sizable veteran void. Because he anchored the right tackle spot, his absence forces a careful evaluation of coaching, technique, and contract strategy. Therefore the team faces a true succession test at offensive tackle heading into 2026.
This article takes an analytical and cautious view of that transition. We will examine Warren McClendon’s tape, metrics, and in-game traits closely. McClendon earned 13 starts and delivered strong PFF grades late in the season, yet postseason pressures exposed some risk. However, the Rams should balance giving him a legitimate shot with adding sensible Day Two or developmental depth. As a result, the detailed scouting and succession plan for McClendon becomes the focal point of our analysis.
We will also weigh free agent alternatives and draft Day Two options. Because signing a high priced veteran seems unlikely, internal development matters more. Ultimately, the goal is a low risk transition that preserves the offensive line’s cohesion.
Rams right tackle plan after Havenstein retirement
Warren McClendon finished the regular season with metrics that warrant cautious optimism. From Week 12 through Week 18 he ranked as the fifth highest graded tackle in the NFL. His run blocking grade sat at 83.1, which tied for seventh. His pass blocking grade reached 79.7, placing him ninth. In addition, his pass blocking efficiency was an elite 98.5, second best in that span. These numbers explain why coaches entrusted him with 13 starts and why he projects as the likely right tackle in 2026.
However, postseason tape shows vulnerability. McClendon allowed four or more pressures in two of three postseason games. That came after a single regular season game with four pressures in 10 starts. Therefore the sample flags inconsistency under playoff heat. Because he is entering the final year of his rookie deal, the stakes are higher. If he plays well, he could command meaningful money. As a result, the Rams must weigh extension timing against roster flexibility.
The transition plan should reflect a learning curve and depth planning. The team should give McClendon a true opportunity while adding Day Two developmental insurance. For further context on roster planning and coaching impacts, see RamsNews coverage at RamsNews on Havenstein retirement and RamsNews on coaching hires. Also consider the contract timing discussion here RamsNews on McClendon extension.
| Player | Past performance metrics | Draft status | Contract considerations | Potential role in 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warren McClendon | Started 13 games. Week 12 through Week 18: fifth highest graded tackle. Run blocking 83.1 tied for seventh. Pass blocking 79.7 ninth. Pass blocking efficiency 98.5 second. Allowed four plus pressures in two of three postseason games. | Entering final year of rookie deal; developed by the Rams | If he plays well he could earn a meaningful contract. Team must weigh extension timing against roster flexibility | Projected likely starter at right tackle. Give him a legitimate chance while adding Day Two developmental insurance |
| Joe Noteboom | Served as starter after the transition from Andrew Whitworth to Noteboom in 2022. Past form regression was a team concern | Existing Rams veteran on the roster | Provides experienced depth. Team control avoids large free agent cost | Competition for starter role or veteran depth. Can slide to guard if needed |
| Jonah Williams | Established veteran tackle with proven traits but limited pass protection upside per evaluation | Free agent candidate in the market | Likely expensive to sign and may not fully solve pass protection issues | Unlikely signing. If acquired he would be a short term starter or rotational depth |
| Jermaine Eluemunor | Experienced lineman but evaluation says he does not move the needle | Free agent candidate | Lower cost than top targets but limited upside | Depth option only. Does not change long term succession plan |
Draft and depth strategy after Havenstein
The Rams should target a developmental tackle on Day Two, because McClendon likely starts in 2026 and enters the final year of his rookie deal. This approach preserves draft capital while supplying upside. It also hedges against a sudden regression at right tackle, which the team cannot afford.
Ideal targets will offer length, athleticism, and second level run power. In addition they should project as swing tackle candidates who can play left or right. Therefore prospects with second or third round grades make the most sense. The front office can coach technique and add play strength in Year One.
Depth must include ready backups who can step in without disruption. Options like Caleb Tiernan, Isaiah World, Max Iheanachor, and Drew Shelton fit that developmental profile. However, the Rams should avoid the prior mistake of having no true backup when a starter faltered. As a result the team must balance giving McClendon a real shot with drafting a Day Two developmental tackle and keeping a versatile swing tackle on the roster.
Moreover, the Rams should plan for a swing tackle who can play guard. That plan offers low risk and long term upside for the offensive line.
Conclusion
Warren McClendon is the centerpiece of the Rams right tackle plan after Havenstein retirement. The team will give him a genuine chance to start in 2026 while monitoring his consistency. However, postseason pressure showed vulnerabilities that require cautious handling. Because he enters the final year of his rookie deal, contract timing matters.
Therefore the front office should pair that opportunity with a Day Two draft pick. A developmental tackle adds upside and protects against sudden regression. Drafting on Day Two preserves capital and provides coaching runway. Meanwhile, internal options like Caleb Tiernan or Isaiah World provide emergency depth.
Ultimately the strategy balances faith in McClendon with prudent depth building. As a result, the team avoids repeating past mistakes of thin depth. Engaged fans should watch training camp and early season snaps closely. For more analysis follow Rams News LLC at Rams News and on Twitter @ZachGatsby.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who will start at right tackle for the Rams in 2026?
Warren McClendon is the projected starter. He earned 13 starts and posted strong late‑season PFF grades. However, the team will monitor his consistency because postseason pressure exposed some weaknesses. Therefore coaches plan to give him a real shot while keeping contingency plans ready.
How did McClendon perform in key metrics last season?
From Week 12 to Week 18 he ranked among the top five graded tackles. His run‑blocking grade was 83.1 and his pass‑blocking grade 79.7. In that stretch his pass‑blocking efficiency reached 98.5. Yet he allowed multiple pressures in two of three postseason games, which signals risk under playoff conditions.
Will the Rams pursue a high‑profile free agent replacement?
Signing a marquee veteran seems unlikely. Targets such as Jonah Williams and Jermaine Eluemunor carry questions and cost. As a result the Rams prefer internal development and Day Two draft capital to upgrade depth without overspending.
What is the draft plan to support the right tackle spot?
The Rams should aim for a developmental tackle in rounds two or three. That player should project as a swing tackle with length and athleticism. In addition, drafting on Day Two preserves capital and supplies coaching runway for technique and strength work.
Who are realistic depth options if McClendon struggles?
The team will target versatile backups who can play left or right. Names to watch include Caleb Tiernan, Isaiah World, Max Iheanachor, and Drew Shelton. Moreover the Rams should keep a guard‑capable swing tackle to avoid the past mistake of thin depth.
If you have more questions about the Rams right tackle plan after Havenstein retirement, follow roster updates in training camp and early season games.