Barring another roster change before mid‑July, the Los Angeles Rams will enter training camp viewed as Super Bowl favorites. Coach Sean McVay has repeatedly urged the roster not to get distracted by outside praise, stressing the need to stay humble, be present and handle adversity without letting external noise affect the team. McVay also canceled the Rams’ minicamp.
A potential roster complication remains the status of left tackle Alaric Jackson, who was arrested June 8 on a felony domestic violence charge. Jackson previously served a two‑game suspension in August 2024 after the NFL found he had violated the league’s personal‑conduct policy.
The possibility of Aaron Donald returning from retirement drew attention during the final week of OTAs. Sources around the team said no one was applying pressure on the future Hall of Famer, but the organization would welcome him back. The discussion intensified after the Rams traded for Myles Garrett, and ESPN’s Pat McAfee said he contacted Donald; McAfee reported that the exchange prompted Donald to say the idea had given him pause, according to ESPN. Defensive coordinator Chris Shula said the club would be glad to have Donald back, and team captain Quentin Lake said he expected Donald would be fully committed if he chose to return.
At quarterback, the backup role is expected to be filled by rookie Ty Simpson, the No. 13 overall pick. Behind starter Matthew Stafford, the Rams also have Stetson Bennett IV (a 2023 fourth‑round pick) and undrafted Matthew Caldwell on the roster. Simpson and Bennett are likely to get extra snaps in camp and the preseason as the team plans rest days for Stafford and typically limits playing key starters in preseason games. Last year Bennett handled the first two preseason games while fourth‑string Dresser Winn played the third; veteran Jimmy Garoppolo, last season’s backup, did not re‑sign and is considering retirement. McVay said the team has not recently discussed adding another quarterback.
The Rams also face contract decisions with several members of their 2023 draft class who are eligible for extensions, including wide receiver Puka Nacua, defensive end Kobie Turner, outside linebacker Byron Young and guard Steve Avila. The offseason atmosphere suggested the club was prioritizing preparation for the 2026 season as it considers those situations.
