Following training camp, the Los Angeles Rams are set to take a major step in their preparations for the season, holding two joint practices and three preseason games. These will mark the first time the Rams go up against another team, providing a better evaluation of the roster.
As the team transitions to their physically demanding preseason schedule, here are five lessons we learned from training camp.
The defensive additions are as good as advertised
Myles Garrett was dominant throughout camp, while Trent McDuffie displayed the versatility and playmaking ability that make him one of the NFL’s best. Jaylen Watson could cover every possible pass catcher the Rams put on the field. The defense dominated the latter portions of camp and the trio is a big reason why.
However, the greater impact is how they have elevated the pieces already on the field. Emmanuel Forbes Jr. and Kam Kinchens looked vastly improved. One would have to point to their teammates as a big factor in why.
Stetson Bennett is likely QB2
Sean McVay virtually confirmed Bennett’s role as a backup, with Ty Simpson set to play in preseason, while Bennett’s participation remains in doubt. When Jimmy Garoppolo was the Rams’ backup, he didn’t play in preseason, alluding to Bennett likely being Matthew Stafford’s backup in 2026.
That is, of course, assuming McVay follows the same formula he’s had for quarterbacks during preseason. The backup will play a bunch of snaps in joint practices, while the QB3 plays preseason. On top of that, Bennett looked more consistent in camp, while Simpson is just getting his feet wet in the league.
If Simpson wishes to be the backup, he will have to put on a show in practice and in the games.
Don’t close the door on Garoppolo
Being at camp and talking with fellow members of the media, I am not convinced that Bennett or Simpson is ready at this point to take the reins in the event Matthew Stafford gets hurt during the regular season. In that tragic scenario, the team would have to rely on its defense to grind out victories, while utilizing a quarterback who can score at least 20 points per game and limiting turnovers.
It’s hard to see Bennett or Simpson being that player yet. Garoppolo remains a free agent and is reportedly open to playing in 2026 if the right situation comes up. All I’m saying is that Garoppolo could get his chance soon.
Josaiah Stewart is here
The second-year man out of Michigan impressed as a rookie and took a dramatic turn in development this offseason. He looks fast, balanced and like a guy who will have four to six sacks this season. It will be exciting to see how Chris Shula utilizes Stewart, due to his ability to rush the passer and drop into coverage.
He’s the X-factor on this defense and could be a bigger factor as the season goes on.
Nacua’s going for the crown
Puka Nacua is about to have a season to remember. He looks sharp, strong, and confident. His ability to make one-handed catches might be at a level the NFL has never witnessed before, and any lack of separation between him and a defender seems not to matter, as he can peel off at the last second and establish a position to make a play on the ball.
Don’t make any mistakes; he’s going for the triple crown. Davante Adams will not get the same red zone looks he got last season, as he was too effective for the league to handle. Nacua seems to be the logical next step, and his physical presence and catching ability make him a prime target for goal-line fades.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: 5 lessons learned from Rams training camp
Reporting by Brock Vierra, Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Brock Vierra, Rams Wire | USA TODAY Network
