Why Rams Tight Ends Dominate McVay’s 2026 Offense?
Rams tight ends: an embarrassment of riches reshaping the offense
Los Angeles fans are spoiled for choice this spring. Rams tight ends headline that depth and create a selection problem for coaches. Because the staff plans more two and three tight end sets, personnel value has shifted. As a result, blocking ability, route versatility, and special teams snaps now decide roster spots. I will break down who projects as a starter. Then I will identify fit as a Y tight end or as a move candidate. Meanwhile I scout newcomers Max Klare, Dan Villari, and Rohan Jones for strengths and weaknesses.
Moreover I will show how multi TE usage reshapes run schemes and passing concepts. Fans should expect creative personnel groupings and more target share for tight ends. Finally the piece stays scouting driven and analytical while keeping a fan focused lens. I will use snap count splits, practice reports, and film to justify evaluations.
Additionally I will compare target share trends under McVay to last season. Because last year tight end targets climbed to 27 percent, the stakes rose. That quantitative frame complements the tape based scouting you expect here. Expect detailed size, speed, and blocking profiles for each candidate. As a fan you will see why the Rams can rotate eight players. They can still keep elite personnel on game days.
Rams tight ends Max Klare profile
Max Klare projects as a high ceiling Y tight end with clear developmental traits. He entered the league in Round Two and brings size and length that fit move and inline work. Because McVay has increased tight end usage, league observers should expect Klare to see early rotation snaps. Last season, tight end targets rose to 27 percent under McVay, with 161 looks, so Klare could carve immediate passing game value. On film, Klare shows crisp route timing and contested catch upside. However, he will need to expand blocking technique against pro edge defenders. As a result, Klare will likely split time with veteran returnees while he refines his craft.
Rams tight ends Dan Villari scouting
Dan Villari is an intriguing undrafted free agent with receiver first traits. He stands 6 foot 4 and 243 pounds with 32 1/4 inch arm length and hands at 9 3/4 inches. In college, he compiled 66 catches for 671 yards plus rushing work that highlights his athletic versatility. Villari ran reported times near 4.60 to 4.77 and posted a 6.84 three cone. Therefore, he profiles as a move tight end and slot weapon. Keep in mind the room is deep and the easy answer is “let them sit and learn on the practice squad.” The room is full up, no vacancy. Still, many teams met with him, and the author thinks Villari is the better prospect, so keep an eye on him.
Rams tight ends Rohan Jones prospect
Rohan Jones measured 6 foot 2 and 238 pounds with a 31 inch arm. He totaled 80 catches for 1352 yards and 20 touchdowns across multiple schools. Jones posted a 4.72 forty and solid agility testing like a 4.50 shuttle and a 7.04 three cone. He also offered special teams value as a kickoff returner. As a result, Jones projects as a hybrid slot option and depth blocker who could help in two and three tight end sets.
Collectively these additions deepen the unit and give Los Angeles flexible personnel options. Under McVay, the target share and multi tight end usage make each profile valuable in different game plans.
Rams tight ends comparison table
| Player | Height | Weight | Arm length | Hand size | College stats | Combine/Pro Day | Scouting notes | Projected role |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Klare | 6 foot 4+ | ~250 lb | (listed as long) | (listed) | Second round pick; strong college production and contested catch tape | Drafted in Round 2; developmental upside | Good route timing; contested catches; needs NFL blocking polish | Y tight end inline and move snaps |
| Dan Villari | 6 foot 4 | 243 lb | 32 1/4 inch | 9 3/4 inch | 66 catches for 671 yards; added 484 rushing yards and 4 rushing TDs | Pro Day reported 4.60–4.77 forty; 6.84 three cone; 4.31 shuttle | Receiver first; soft hands; sharp route runner; needs to refine blocking | Move tight end slot weapon; special teams depth |
| Rohan Jones | 6 foot 2 | 238 lb | 31 inch | 9.5 inch | 80 catches for 1352 yards and 20 TDs across three schools; 18 kickoff returns | 4.72 forty; 4.50 shuttle; 7.04 three cone; 25 bench reps; 32.5 vertical | Hybrid athlete; solid agility; useful on special teams; limited starting tape early | Hybrid slot/backfield option; rotational TE in multi TE sets |
Below the table, note the usage context. Sean McVay increased tight end targets to 27 percent last season. Therefore each profile matters for pass distribution and run schemes. For more on undrafted free agents and roster battles, see this article. For rookie impact context, see this article. For how draft grades shape roster decisions, see this article.
How Rams tight ends reshape play design
Sean McVay’s schemes reward versatile personnel. Because tight ends can block or split wide, the offense gains pre snap ambiguity. As a result defenders must choose matchups. That choice creates favorable coverage or running lanes for Los Angeles.
- Run game: two and three tight end sets add extra blockers. Therefore run gaps widen and play action looks cleaner.
- Passing game: tight ends create middle field leverage. Moreover they free receivers on the perimeter by drawing linebackers inward.
- Formation flexibility: McVay can morph from spread to jumbo in one motion. Consequently the Rams can attack various defensive fronts without subbing.
- Matchup creation: tight ends isolate linebackers in coverage. As a result quarterbacks get quick, high percentage throws.
Roster consequences of Rams tight ends depth
Eight tight ends entering OTAs changes roster math. First, coaches face a numbers game when setting the final roster. Second, multi role value becomes essential because limited spots force specialization.
- Development path: some players will land on practice squads. However others must prove immediate special teams value to survive cuts.
- Positional tradeoffs: extra tight ends reduce spots for backup receivers or running backs. Therefore front offices weigh versatility heavily.
- Injury insurance and weekly game planning: with so many options McVay can tailor packages to opponents.
Because tight end targets rose to 27 percent last season, these shifts matter more than ever. In short, the depth accelerates schematic creativity and forces sharper roster decisions.
Conclusion
The Rams tight ends room has shifted from depth to strategic weaponry. With eight tight ends entering OTAs, coaches face roster choices and matchup possibilities. Because Sean McVay raised tight end targets to 27 percent, each body holds real game value. Max Klare offers Y tight end traits and contested catch upside. Dan Villari projects as a move tight end and slot threat. Rohan Jones gives hybrid versatility and special teams value. Together they let McVay run two and three tight end sets with frequency.
As a result the run game gains space and the passing game gains middle field options. This configuration changes roster math. Therefore players must show blocking and special teams chops to stick. Some will develop on the practice squad while others win snaps in organized team activities. For fans, this means creative play design and deeper weekly game plans.
For continued scouting driven coverage, visit Rams News LLC. Follow the beat on Twitter at @ZachGatsby for updates and film based notes. Stay tuned as the competition sorts itself out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many tight ends are on the Rams’ roster?
The Rams have eight tight ends on the roster entering OTAs, showcasing significant depth.
Why focus on multi-tight end sets?
Multi-tight end sets create versatile offensive formations, enhancing the Rams’ ability to execute both run and pass plays efficiently.
Who are the key players in the Rams’ tight ends group?
Key players include Max Klare, Dan Villari, and Rohan Jones, each bringing unique skills to the offense.
How do tight ends impact Sean McVay’s strategy?
Tight ends are integral to McVay’s strategy, with last year’s targets for this position rising to 27%, highlighting their role in diversified play-calling.
What makes Dan Villari a noteworthy prospect?
Villari is noted for his receiver-first skills and strong route-running ability, making him a valuable asset and prospect on the team.