Can Rams OTAs Surprising Loser Redefine the QB Depth?
Rams OTAs Recap: 5 Winners, 1 Surprising Loser and What It Means for the Roster
Rams OTAs sent the first clear signals about this roster’s shape and depth. For fans, the sessions mixed optimism with real questions because key veterans rested. The goal here is simple: recap the big takeaways, name five clear winners, and highlight one surprising loser.
First, we preview the winners who gained steam. Ty Simpson looked sharp in walkthroughs and film study, while Stetson Bennett earned more trust as Stafford’s primary backup. Meanwhile, the defense showed versatility under Chris Shula, and Puka Nacua‘s big-play profile remains elite. As a result, the Rams feel deeper at several spots.
However, not everything went right. The unexpected loser will raise roster questions heading into training camp. Later sections will analyze scheme fits, positional battles, and how pending free agents and extensions could shift the depth chart. Therefore, stay tuned for a detailed breakdown that mixes scouting, scheme insight, and fan-focused optimism.
Rams OTAs clear winners
The Rams OTAs produced clear winners and optimistic roster notes. Below, we break down five players or units that stood out. Each profile includes quotes, stats, and what to watch next. The tone is fan focused and scouting minded.
Ty Simpson — rookie command and film work
- Ty Simpson arrived as the 13th pick and immediately embraced the playbook. He was a full participant in film study and walkthroughs. As a result, coaches praised his preparation.
- Observation 1: because Simpson studies defenses, he learns fast. Observation 2: however he still has live-game reps to earn.
- Related read: What does Ty Simpson OTA development predict for Rams?
Stetson Bennett — backup earns trust
- Entering his fourth season, Bennett has become the primary backup behind Matthew Stafford. He took more reps with Stafford rested, and the coaches noticed growth.
- Quote: “I’ve seen tremendous growth. Obviously, with Matthew not being out here based on the plan … Stetson’s gotten a lot more reps than he would’ve otherwise,” which highlights his rising role.
- Stat reminder: Bennett was 44 of 64 for 512 yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions in the 2025 preseason. Therefore he has proven he can manage the offense.
Puka Nacua — big play continuity
- Puka remains the clearest big play threat on the roster. In 2025 he tied for the NFL lead in 20 plus yard receptions and led wide receivers in yards per route run at 3.82.
- As a result, the offense retains a true vertical option when needed. For context see Pro Football Reference and NextGenStats for route metrics.
Rams secondary and Chris Shula — versatility upgrade
- The team upgraded its secondary and gained versatility under coordinator Chris Shula. The unit showed different looks in coverage drills, which should help match templates on game day.
- Quote on scheme: “We’re going to let him do what he does best. You’re not going to take Michael Jordan, LeBron, all those guys and pull them out of their comfort zone. We’re going to work with him and put him in the best spots.” This speaks to maximizing talent within the system.
- Related read on breakout candidates and scheme fits: RamsNews.
Matt Caldwell — undrafted rookie buzz
- The undrafted rookie Matt Caldwell made noise in individual drills and earned positive scout grades. He mixed route polish with willingness to block in team work.
- Observation: however he faces a tough climb to a roster spot. Still, OTAs gave him runway and positive tape for coaches to review.
- For more on development and roster context see: RamsNews prospects piece.
Each of these winners shifts a depth chart. As a result, fans should watch training camp battles closely. Meanwhile, these early signs favor youth and scheme fit over short term flash.
Rams OTAs surprising loser: Jimmy Garoppolo
Jimmy Garoppolo emerged as the most surprising loser from OTAs. With Matthew Stafford resting, Garoppolo remained the veteran backup, but Stetson Bennett absorbed the bulk of scout and team reps. “I’ve seen tremendous growth. Stetson’s gotten a lot more reps than he would’ve otherwise,” Rams coaches said. That shift reduced Garoppolo’s practice visibility and trimmed his leverage in roster talks.
Implications
- Roster depth and competition: Bennett’s rise lowers the immediate need for a high cost veteran backup, turning the position into a likely Bennett versus camp arm battle where preseason reps will decide the depth chart.
- Cap and roster flexibility: Moving on from Garoppolo would free short term cap space and create room for extensions or depth signings, while keeping him would require a clear role and contract clarity.
Training camp will force a final decision as reps and preseason performance crystallize the plan.
| Player Name | Position | OTAs Performance Highlights | Quotes/Observations | Projected Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ty Simpson | QB | Full participant in film breakdown and playbook study. As a result, quick processing and accurate short throws stood out in drills. | Coaches praised his preparation. He studies defenses and learns fast. | Rotational rookie quarterback with growing playbook reps and clear developmental upside. |
| Stetson Bennett | QB | Took increased reps while Stafford rested. He showed command of the huddle and clean decision making. | “I’ve seen tremendous growth. Stetson’s gotten a lot more reps.” Therefore he earned more trust with coaches. | Primary backup behind Stafford, trusted game manager and emergency starter. |
| Puka Nacua | WR | Maintained big play profile in team work. He continued route efficiency and separation during OTAs. | Led the league in 20 plus yard receptions in 2025 and posted elite yards per route run. Meanwhile he remains the vertical option. | Primary vertical threat and chain mover, the offense’s big play engine. |
| Matt Caldwell | WR | Undrafted rookie who showed polished routes and willingness to block. OTAs created positive scout buzz. | Showed polish in individual drills. However he still faces an uphill climb for a roster spot. | Depth receiver candidate, special teams contributor and training camp bubble player. |
| Jimmy Garoppolo | QB | Veteran backup with limited reps as Bennett took practice work. His future in Los Angeles looks uncertain. | Garoppolo is nearing 35 years old and may not return to LA. Therefore his leverage and role are reduced. | Likely free agent or short term stopgap if retained; backup leverage is reduced. |
CONCLUSION
OTAs left clear signals about the Rams’ roster direction. Five players emerged as winners, and one proved a surprising loser. Therefore depth charts and backup plans will change before camp.
Ty Simpson’s preparation and Stetson Bennett’s growth stand out. Puka Nacua remains a big play weapon. Meanwhile Shula’s versatility gives the defense more looks. Training camp will refine those narratives and decide final roles.
This article appears courtesy of Rams News LLC. Visit ramsnews.com for ongoing analysis and exclusive updates. Follow on Twitter at @ZachGatsby for breaking coverage and fan-first insight. Stay locked in because this roster can still shift before kickoff.
Expect deeper looks at pending free agents, cap moves and positional battles. As a result, roster turnover could shape the 2026 outlook. Follow our beat for practice grades, training camp reports and roster updates. Subscribe to our newsletter and check back daily for OTAs and camp coverage. Join the conversation and share your take.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What did Rams OTAs reveal about the roster?
Rams OTAs showed early roster direction and depth shifts. Ty Simpson and Stetson Bennett emerged as clear developmental winners. Puka Nacua stayed elite in big plays. The defense gained versatility under Chris Shula. As a result, the club looks deeper but still has open battles.
Is Ty Simpson ready to play in 2026?
Simpson learned the playbook and broke down film. He practiced with urgency and earned praise. However he remains a rookie who needs live reps. Expect him to rotate into packages and develop through preseason.
Who is the backup quarterback and what about Jimmy Garoppolo?
Stetson Bennett earned more reps and coach trust. Bennett is now the primary backup behind Matthew Stafford. Garoppolo is nearing 35 and his future looks uncertain. Therefore Garoppolo may not return if the team values youth and cap space.
What should fans watch at training camp?
Watch positional battles especially at receiver and depth on defense. Track preseason reps, special teams work and roster moves. Pending free agents and extension talks could change the depth chart. Training camp will finalize many answers.
How reliable is the Rams defense with Chris Shula?
Shula added coverage variety and matched personnel to schemes. He intends to optimize pass rushers by putting them in proper spots. As a result the defense should be more adaptable than last year.
