Rams at Chargers 2026 Preseason Week 3: final roster watch
The Rams finish preseason play against the Chargers in a Week 3 finale that will shape final cuts and Week 1 roles at SoFi Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. PT on KCAL, and several players hope Thursday’s snaps translate to roster security.
Staff reporting and the team’s notes make clear this is a consequential night for depth decisions; Ty Simpson is the only quarterback confirmed to play and the organization has said it will open the season carrying three quarterbacks, making this game a final audition for dozens of roster hopefuls as detailed by Los Angeles Rams Official.
Key Takeaways
- Ty Simpson is the only quarterback confirmed to play in the preseason finale, making this game a decisive audition for the roster.
- The organization confirmed it will carry three quarterbacks on the initial 53-man roster, which tightens the margin for backup candidates.
- Jarquez Hunter leads the team in preseason rushing and will compete for a larger role alongside Jordan Waters and Dean Connors.
- Late preseason snaps will determine special-teams assignments and final defensive rotation spots that affect Week 1 availability.
Rams at Chargers 2026 preseason finale roster implications
This finale functions as a live roster workout with tangible outcomes for the initial 53-man decision. How reps are distributed and who finishes strong will directly influence the Week 1 depth chart.
Quarterback roster math and Ty Simpson
Simpson enters the finale with clear momentum: through two preseason appearances he is 29-for-37 passing for 263 yards and two touchdowns with a 114.3 passer rating, plus nine rushing yards. Those numbers give him a platform to press his case for a backup role on a roster that will include three quarterbacks.
With the team set to carry three quarterbacks on the initial roster, Simpson’s efficiency in Thursday’s game will factor heavily into the final allocation of reps and the Week 1 depth chart. Whether other quarterbacks see meaningful snaps remains a coaching decision tied to the finale.
Running back rotation and Jarquez Hunter
Jarquez Hunter has led the preseason rushing corps with 103 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries, averaging 4.9 yards per attempt. His physical running and limited-action production place him squarely in the conversation for rotational carries.
Hunter will likely split work with Jordan Waters—who has 15 carries at a 6.1-yard average—and Dean Connors, who has shown receiving value with two preseason receiving touchdowns. Thursday is a chance for each back to show durability, pass protection value and special-teams chops ahead of final cuts.
Defensive playmakers pushing for snaps
Undrafted rookie Wesley Bailey has been active across the preseason with seven tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack, four quarterback hits and a forced fumble, staking a claim as a rotational edge presence and special-teams contributor. His consistent pressure and turnover production keep him under close evaluation.
Cornerback Al’zillion “AZ” Hamilton has produced nine tackles, two passes defended and an interception through two preseason games, showing playmaking traits that can translate to nickel snaps and coverage on special teams. Those performances could push either player into the Week 1 game-day rotation depending on final roster decisions.
Receiver and tight end battles to watch
Tight end Max Klare has combined for 12 receptions and 49 yards across the first two preseason games while showcasing blocking and receiving ability in a crowded tight end room. His preseason role is the primary window to display positional versatility while veterans manage availability.
Davis Allen and offensive lineman Justin Dedich returned to practice in limited fashion, while wide receiver Puka Nacua remained a non-participant. Those availability notes will affect how many snaps are available to late-arriving receivers and could open short-term opportunities for players who finish the preseason strong.
Preseason production and roster context
| Player | Preseason production | Roster context |
|---|---|---|
| Ty Simpson | 29-for-37 passing, 263 yards, 2 TD, 114.3 rating; 9 rushing yards | Only quarterback confirmed to play in the finale and competing for a backup spot under a three-QB plan |
| Jarquez Hunter | 103 rushing yards and 1 touchdown on 21 carries | Leads preseason rushers and is competing for rotational carries plus special-teams value |
| Max Klare | 12 receptions and 49 yards through two preseason games | Showcasing receiving and blocking in a deep tight end room while veterans manage availability |
| Wesley Bailey | Seven tackles, 1 TFL, 1 sack, 4 QB hits and 1 forced fumble | Undrafted rookie pushing for an edge role and special-teams snaps |
Roster construction and Week 1 activations
The preseason finale will directly influence the initial 53-man roster, and the club’s decision to carry three quarterbacks compresses the window for backup candidates. That structure elevates the value of special-teams contributors and players who can fill multiple situational roles.
Players who finish strong in Thursday’s game will have clearer paths to Week 1 activations versus practice-squad designation, especially those who demonstrate reliable performance on cover units and in third-down or rotational packages.
