Should Warren McClendon Get an Extension Now?

Warren McClendon: Why the Rams Should Wait on a Contract Extension

Warren McClendon arrived as a low cost rookie and finished 2025 as a genuine breakout on the Rams offensive line. He ranked fifth among tackles in Run Blocking Grade and allowed fewer than three quarterback hits. As a result, Los Angeles suddenly enjoys massive salary cap savings while McClendon plays on a rookie deal. However, that savings creates a clear choice about timing and roster priorities.

This article previews why the Rams should avoid rushing a big extension. Because McClendon showed elite traits, fan optimism is high. Yet patience makes fiscal and roster sense, especially with holes at cornerback and receiver that need addressing. Therefore, waiting until McClendon proves consistency in 2026 preserves flexibility and leverage for the franchise.

Below we will break down McClendon’s 2025 metrics, compare right tackle market salaries, and map cap scenarios that support a wait and see approach. The goal is to explain why rewarding McClendon later could be the smarter move for sustained contention.

Image idea

A low angle action shot of Warren McClendon driving his feet and firing to block a rushing defender. Capture turf spray, stadium lights at dusk, and motion blur on the defender while McClendon remains sharp in focus. Keep the shot cinematic and optimistic to mirror the analysis tone.

Warren McClendon 2025 by the numbers

Warren McClendon burst onto the scene as a rookie and posted metrics that demanded attention. He finished 2025 with a Run Blocking Grade of 86.7. That grade ranked fifth among tackles who logged at least 581 regular season snaps, per Pro Football Focus. In addition, McClendon allowed fewer than three quarterback hits all year.

These raw numbers show clear upside. Because he played at a high level on a rookie contract, the Rams gained immediate roster flexibility. For more context on how McClendon reshaped Los Angeles plans, see this analysis from RamsNews.

Run blocking excellence

McClendon excelled in run blocking. His 86.7 Run Blocking Grade places him among the elite at right tackle. As a result, the Rams ran more effectively to his side.

Key run blocking takeaways

• Run Blocking Grade 86.7, fifth among tackles with 581-plus snaps
• Fewer than three quarterback hits allowed all season
• Strong footwork and finishing ability on second-level blocks

For a deeper look at PFF grading methods, consult Pro Football Focus.

How McClendon stacks up against peers

Per PFF, McClendon tied for the eighth-best tackle mark in certain combined metrics while Alaric Jackson ranked 11th among tackles with the same snap minimum. That comparison underscores depth on the Rams line and prevents overreliance on a single veteran. See more on McClendon and the Rams cap picture here.

Salary cap and roster impact

Because McClendon remains on a rookie deal, the Rams effectively save nearly 100 percent of the salaries charged to top paid right tackles. For example, market figures show veterans like Penei Sewell and Lane Johnson earn in the mid to high twenties in millions. That fiscal breathing room lets Los Angeles target cornerback and receiver needs without forcing an early, costly extension. For discussion of the team’s broader strategy, this piece adds context here.

In short, McClendon’s 2025 production buys the Rams time. Waiting to extend him keeps cap options open while the team shores up other roster holes.

Table: Top right tackle salaries and the Rams cost advantage

Key takeaways

• These veteran right tackles command annual salaries from $11.5M to $28.0M.
• Because Warren McClendon remains on a rookie deal, the Rams avoid those large charges.
• As a result, Los Angeles gains cap flexibility to address cornerback and receiver holes.
• Therefore, waiting before a big extension preserves financial leverage and roster options.

A clean, high-energy photo of the Rams offensive line during a run play. It highlights Warren McClendon driving a defender off the line. The image underscores his run blocking impact and complements the analysis.

Warren McClendon Contract Status and What It Means for the Rams

Warren McClendon remains on a rookie contract for 2026. Because of that, Los Angeles benefits from a very low cap hit. “The Rams hit the jackpot and just saved themselves a ton of salary cap space.” That savings creates meaningful roster flexibility.

Financial implications and salary cap space

Keeping McClendon on his rookie deal preserves cap room. Therefore the Rams avoid replacing him with a veteran earning $15 million plus per year. In turn, the team can allocate resources to pressing needs like cornerback and receiver. Additionally, Rob Havenstein still carries veteran salary and leadership value. However, Havenstein is approaching 34 years old, so the Rams must plan for succession without rushing an expensive McClendon extension.

• McClendon on rookie money buys short term cap relief.
• Waiting avoids paying top right tackle market rates immediately.
• Team can target cornerbacks and receivers with the available salary cap space.

Strategic reasons to wait on a contract extension

Patience preserves flexibility because McClendon still must show long term consistency. As a result, the Rams can reward him later after another strong season. Meanwhile the front office retains negotiating leverage. Because they control a promising starter on an affordable deal, Los Angeles can time an extension to match proven performance and market conditions.

Balancing veterans and youth

The Rams must balance veteran leadership and youth production. Andrew Whitworth set a tone before his 2022 retirement and Havenstein filled that locker room role. Therefore, the team should preserve cap space to keep key veterans while assessing McClendon’s 2026 growth. In short, waiting on a contract extension serves both fiscal prudence and roster construction goals.

Analysis of Rams Contract Situation

In short, the Rams should not rush a contract extension for Warren McClendon this offseason. He produced breakout-level run blocking and finished 2025 with elite metrics. “The Rams hit the jackpot and just saved themselves a ton of salary cap space.” Because McClendon plays on a rookie contract, Los Angeles gains immediate cap flexibility. Therefore the team can address pressing needs at cornerback and receiver without overcommitting right now.

Waiting makes strategic sense. McClendon must prove long term consistency, and another strong season will validate a market-value deal. Meanwhile Rob Havenstein provides veteran leadership, but he is nearing the end of his prime. As a result, patience preserves negotiating leverage and roster options. Rewarding McClendon later allows the front office to match pay with sustained performance and current market conditions.

This approach balances optimism and fiscal prudence. It protects contention timelines and keeps roster construction flexible.

For more coverage, see Rams News LLC, visit Rams News LLC and follow the latest updates on Twitter/X @ZachGatsby.

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