WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. – The Los Angeles Rams got back to work on Tuesday as they prepare for the New Orleans Saints and the final stretch of preseason. This week will feature a joint practice and a preseason game that could serve as the deciding factor for several position battles.
Here are five observations from practice.
The Rams have linebacker depth
The Rams have more than enough talent at outside linebacker, but there was a concern that their interior could be exposed. That concern is non-existent because Grant Stuard will be a valuable depth piece for L.A. Stuard jumped a quick pass from Stetson Bennett, taking the ball the distance. It was a tough day for Bennett, with another pick made by Alex Johnson, but Stuard was all over the field.
He could have the same growth that Nate Landman had last year. He looks comfortable.
Stafford is at his peak
The reigning MVP looked in peak form and without Puka Nacua on the field, Stafford was distributing the ball to a variety of targets. His decisions were quick; he was sharp; he was reading the defense with ease (as one would expect), and his throws to the outside were precise.
Stafford was able to push the ball downfield as well. Long story short, he’s ready to roll.
Whittington’s making a push
There’s a good chance that Rams fans will see a lot of Jordan Whittington this season, especially if he can get hot early. His connection with Stafford was on the money, and he looked like a seamless replacement for Nacua. Konata Mumpfield also had a good day, but Whittington was moving, and his ability to make plays with the ball in his hands should see more things drawn up for him as the year progresses.
He looked like a true WR3 at minimum. Now, let’s see what he looks like against an opponent.
Ferguson’s development is ahead of schedule
Ferguson’s skills as a pass catcher were evident last season, but his blocking has improved a lot. He’s throwing his body around and making plays in the run game. Considering how important run blocking is, especially within the McVay offense, Ferguson could be positioned in a way to move defensive backs without issue, as he’s throwing weight against linebackers and defensive linemen.
He still has some work to do, but Ferguson is stronger while being just as agile as he was in 2025. Scary.
Major questions on the offensive line
The players who practiced were fine. It’s about the players who didn’t. With Justin Dedich and Keagan Trost working their way back from injury, the biggest question on the line is who covers for them, and are those players good enough?
We’ll have to wait for that answer, but it’s something to ponder for how the Rams manage their line for the rest of the preseason.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: 5 observations from Rams practice on Tuesday
Reporting by Brock Vierra, Rams Wire / Rams Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Brock Vierra, Rams Wire | USA TODAY Network
