Rams preseason roster battles to watch

The Rams preseason roster battles are now down to a handful of meaningful fights after the opener in Kansas City. Sean McVay’s choices over who played and who sat out provided the clearest early signals about which veterans are likely safe and which youngsters must seize a narrow window.

Thursday’s joint practice with the New Orleans Saints and the remaining exhibition games will be decisive for a few players pushing for real roles, not just preseason hype; the four roster areas most likely to be affected by what remains of the preseason schedule are highlighted in the linked report from Turf Show Times

Key Takeaways

• The backup quarterback spot is actively in play between Stetson Bennett and rookie Ty Simpson, with Simpson’s draft pedigree giving him roster leverage.
• An offensive tackle opening could emerge due to Alaric Jackson’s reported status and Keagen Trost’s injury, while Austin Blaske flashed strong PFF-based performance in the opener.
• Punt return duty appears unsettled after Brennan Presley’s runs and Dean Connors’ early impact, prompting a legitimate look away from Xavier Smith for returns.
• Running back depth is in flux, where Dean Connors’ two preseason touchdowns have accelerated his case at the expense of Jarquez Hunter and unclear carry for Ronnie Rivers.

Rams preseason roster battles to watch

The remaining slate effectively narrows the roster chase to four jobs: backup quarterback, offensive tackle, punt returner and running back. Each carries different roster-construction consequences and each will be judged on a mix of live reps and practice tape from the joint session with New Orleans.

Backup quarterback battle

Stetson Bennett currently holds the backup job, but Ty Simpson’s status as a drafted rookie gives the club a longer leash for development. The coaching staff’s judgment will hinge on clean decision-making, tempo control and live-ball accuracy in the joint practice and the next exhibition outing.

A clear, bounce-back performance from Bennett could reframe the conversation, but the roster math is straightforward: the team is unlikely to carry two similar veterans if the rookie already demonstrates pro-ready traits.

Offensive tackle competition

Alaric Jackson’s possible suspension and Keagen Trost’s recent injury have created a window for others to push for playing time. Austin Blaske led the Rams’ offense in PFF grades against the Chiefs and immediately drew attention as an under-the-radar option.

David Quessenberry and AJ Arcuri did not play in the preseason opener, a decision that reads as conservative and protective of veteran depth. Even if Blaske earns a spot, the natural projection is that he would back up the veterans rather than leapfrog them without continued, consistent play.

Punt returner and wide receiver push

Brennan Presley turned heads at Arrowhead with four catches for 58 yards, and Dean Connors provided dynamic open-field play when given late opportunities. Those live-game moments create a low-risk chance for the Rams to evaluate alternatives to Xavier Smith in the return game.

Smith’s muffed punt that led to a Seahawks touchdown in the NFC Championship remains a weighty reference point for fans and staff alike. Two meaningful preseason reps are plenty to determine whether Presley or Connors can handle returns with reliable ball security and game awareness.

Running back depth and role clarity

Ronnie Rivers’ absence from the opener muddied his standing; the staff has substantial preseason tape on him from prior years and that familiarity may protect his spot. Jarquez Hunter’s trajectory is described as trending downward, with the coaching staff reportedly showing limited trust in big-play situations.

Dean Connors, a rookie undrafted free agent, caught two touchdowns from Ty Simpson in the opener and has quickly accumulated more meaningful film than Hunter. That production gives Connors a clear path to earn a roster spot based on unique skillset and immediate impact.

Preseason status comparison table

Recruiting and roster construction implications

How the Rams resolve these four roster battles will shape late-August roster construction and messaging to younger players and undrafted signees. Choosing a rookie or UDFA over an incumbent signals a commitment to fresh, versatile pieces and can influence future undrafted free-agent interest.

There’s also a recruiting-style effect in pro football: consistent opportunity for late-round picks and UDFAs becomes part of the franchise’s pitch to borderline pro prospects. That message ties into NIL-style career opportunity narratives even if the mechanisms differ from college recruiting.

Reporting and game notes are drawn from the linked primary report and Pro Football Focus for the opener’s grade context.