Why does Los Angeles Rams 2026 season outlook matter?
The Los Angeles Rams 2026 season outlook lands in the wake of Super Bowl LX and mixed emotions. Many fans still feel the sting of what might have been, however there are clear reasons for cautious optimism. The Rams hold two first round picks and several mid round selections, which boosts flexibility in the draft.
Because Sean McVay remains at the helm and young stars like Puka Nacua emerged, the core still projects upward. Staffing changes in the secondary, the impending hire of Michael Hunter, Matthew Stafford’s return, and a possible trade up for a rookie quarterback all create tangible paths to improvement.
While the defense must still prove it can stop an increasingly deep NFC, the combination of draft assets, coaching adjustments, and veteran leadership gives supporters a real, measurable reason to believe this team can compete deeper into the postseason than many expect and hope still remains.
Los Angeles Rams 2026 season outlook: Draft assets and roster shifts
Holding two first-round picks gives the Rams clear leverage in April. The selections sit at 13 and 29, and projections show nine to ten total picks. As a result, Los Angeles can add impact players or package assets to move up.
Potential draft strategies
- Trade up for a quarterback — per Schatz: “The Rams will trade up in the draft for a quarterback,” Schatz noted.
- Use one first-round pick on a rookie quarterback if a top prospect falls.
- Add secondary help and edge rushers to address defensive gaps.
- Accumulate mid-round picks to build depth across offense and defense.
Schatz’s prediction matters because the Rams still face a quarterback question. If they execute a trade, the front office can solve that issue without mortgaging the entire roster.
Roster changes and historical context
Retirement of veteran right tackle Taylor Havenstein was notable. “Havenstein was the last member of the St. Louis Rams on the roster. He was drafted in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft…” He started 148 games, two shy of Deacon Jones, and ranked 27th in Rams history. As a result, the team must replace experience and leadership on the offensive line.
Other roster notes
- Matthew Stafford is expected to return and provide veteran stability.
- Puka Nacua’s emergence gives the offense a reliable playmaker.
- Michael Hunter is expected to join as defensive backs coach.
- Aubrey Pleasant is interviewing for defensive coordinator openings elsewhere.
Together, draft capital and targeted roster moves give the Rams practical routes to improve this offseason.
Coaching shakeup and the Los Angeles Rams 2026 season outlook
The coaching staff enters an active offseason that could reshape the defense. Michael Hunter from the University of Tennessee is expected to join as defensive backs coach. Consequently, the secondary will get new technique work and fresh perspectives. In turn, the unit could tighten coverage and improve situational play as younger players adopt pro level fundamentals.
Key coaching updates
- Michael Hunter expected to be defensive backs coach
- Aubrey Pleasant interviewing for defensive coordinator roles with Arizona and Cleveland
- Staff turnover may lead to new scheming and player development priorities
Why these moves matter
- Stability matters because young corners and safeties need consistent coaching
- Hunter’s college experience could speed the transition for rookie additions
- Pleasant pursuing other opportunities creates uncertainty in leadership and continuity
Taken together, these staffing shifts create clear areas of focus for the offseason and set the stage for what to monitor once practices begin.
What to watch next
- How quickly Hunter installs his techniques
- Whether Pleasant accepts an external coordinator role
- Personnel moves in the draft to support a new scheme
- Impact on defensive identity and scheme adjustments in 2026 including coverage shells, blitzing frequency, and personnel groupings
Overall, coaching changes create risks and promise. Rams fans should remain cautiously optimistic as the staff rebuilds defensive identity and refines scheme and player development priorities.
| Role | Name | Experience/Notes | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wide receiver | Puka Nacua | Breakout young receiver; emerged in 2025 as a top target | Reliable pass catcher; boosts offensive consistency and big play ability |
| Quarterback (return) | Matthew Stafford | Veteran leader returning; provides experience and leadership | Stabilizes the QB room and mentors younger signal callers |
| Right tackle (retired) | Taylor Havenstein (retired) | 148 Rams starts; last St Louis Ram; two starts shy of Deacon Jones mark | Leadership gap on the line; opens path to add youth and depth |
| Defensive backs coach | Michael Hunter | College coach from University of Tennessee; expected hire | Fresh techniques for the secondary; accelerates DB development |
| Assistant head coach / DC candidate | Aubrey Pleasant | Interviewing for DC roles with Arizona and Cleveland | Could leave and force a new coordinator search; creates uncertainty |
| Draft capital | Two first round picks (13 and 29) | Projected nine to ten total picks in 2026 draft | Flexibility to trade up for a quarterback or add multiple impact players |
| Potential rookie QB | Draft target | Positioned to target a rookie QB with draft capital | Long term solution if developed; immediate competition for starting role |
CONCLUSION
The Los Angeles Rams 2026 season outlook remains cautiously optimistic despite recent setbacks. Fans can feel disappointed after Super Bowl LX; however, the groundwork for a rebound exists. The Rams control two first round picks and likely nine or ten total selections, which creates roster flexibility. Because Sean McVay stays in charge, the team retains coaching continuity and the vision to improve.
On offense, Matthew Stafford’s return and Puka Nacua’s emergence give immediate stability and big play potential. On defense, Michael Hunter’s expected arrival and the potential loss of Aubrey Pleasant signal a reshaping. As a result, the secondary could improve under new techniques, but uncertainty remains in coordinator continuity. If the front office follows Schatz’s play and trades up for a quarterback, they can find a long term answer.
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Ultimately, Rams supporters should stay hopeful. The team has assets, coaching direction, and young talent. Therefore, believe the Rams can return to deep postseason runs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What draft assets do the Rams have heading into 2026?
The Rams hold two first round picks at 13 and 29. They are projected to have nine or ten total picks. Because of that flexibility, they can add starters or package picks to move up.
Will the Rams trade up for a quarterback?
CBS sports Schatz predicted the Rams will trade up in the draft for a quarterback. However, any move depends on the draft board and costs. Therefore, the team may wait and then act if a top prospect becomes available.
How do recent roster changes affect the team?
Taylor Havenstein retired after 148 starts for the Rams, two starts shy of Deacon Jones. As a result the offensive line loses experience and leadership. Meanwhile, Matthew Stafford’s return and Puka Nacua’s emergence give the offense continuity and playmaking.
What about coaching updates and the defense?
Michael Hunter is expected to join as defensive backs coach. Aubrey Pleasant is interviewing for defensive coordinator openings elsewhere. Therefore the secondary could see new technique and emphasis, but coordinator continuity remains a concern.
What should fans expect for the 2026 season?
Expect cautious optimism. The Rams have draft capital, veteran leaders, and young stars. If the front office drafts well or trades smartly, the team can contend. Otherwise the year could focus on development.