Important position competitions at Rams’ training camp focus on skill roles

July 24, 2026

As the Rams gear up for their training camp opening this Saturday, they appear to be in a prime position for a Super Bowl run.

Matthew Stafford, fresh off an MVP season, leads the charge. Meanwhile, Puka Nacua has established himself as one of the standout wide receivers, and Kyren Williams has a solid track record with over 1,000 rushing yards in three straight seasons.

Excitingly, Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, has joined the ranks, along with Pro Bowl cornerback Trent McDuffie. And there’s a buzz that Rams great Aaron Donald might come out of retirement to contribute.

It’s time to move toward that Super Bowl dream, and the journey begins with training camp.

There are some key points worth noting.

Three notable position battles

WR3

Competing: Jordan Whittington, Konata Mampfield, CJ Daniels, Xavier Smith

While there aren’t many starting spots available, the competition for playtime alongside Nacua and Davante Adams will be a focal point in camp. Especially with the frequent use of “11” personnel, which involves three wide receivers on the field.

The different styles of Whittington, Mampfield, Daniels, and Smith—ranging from speedsters to solid route runners—mean that there could be different players utilized based on game situations. Yet, the Rams are hopeful that one candidate will emerge as a clear favorite during camp or even the season.

Backup QB

Competing: Ty Simpson and Stetson Bennett

Regardless of opinions about Jimmy Garoppolo, he certainly eased coach Sean McVay’s worries in recent times. With his departure, so did the comfort of having a seasoned backup behind Stafford.

If the Rams don’t bring in another veteran quarterback, the backup spot will rest on Simpson, a first-round pick, and Bennett, a fourth-rounder who’s yet to officially start in the NFL.

This may lead the Rams to place significant trust in a quarterback without NFL experience. Either Simpson or Bennett needs to prove they can be a reliable alternative, and McVay will have to adjust plans accordingly based on their readiness.

Tight end rotation

Competing: Colby Parkinson, Tyler Higbee, Davis Allen, Terrence Ferguson, Max Clare

This poses an interesting dilemma. With numerous strong options at tight end but only one ball to share in a loaded offense, the Rams will need to effectively distribute playtime among them.

Parkinson enjoyed a breakout season last year with 43 catches for 408 yards and eight touchdowns, while Higbee continues to be a dependable asset if he remains healthy.

Both Allen and Ferguson have made the most of their chances, potentially leading to increased opportunities. Still, keep an eye on Clare, a second-round draft pick whose pedigree suggests he has the tools to make an immediate impact.

Three players who need to step up

CB Jalen Watson

Much of the talk is focused on McDuffie, a significant acquisition from March. Rightfully so, as he stands out in his role.

But Watson, acquired as a free agent, played beside McDuffie in the Chiefs’ secondary and has shown his worth as a stellar run defender and in both zone and man coverage. Given the attention McDuffie draws, Watson’s performance will be crucial.

LB Nate Landman

Landman is integral to the Rams’ defense as a communicator. Last season, he notched 132 tackles, including pivotal plays behind the line of scrimmage and a couple of sacks, underscoring his role’s importance.

He’s improved in pass coverage, evidenced by his highest coverage grade so far. A repeat performance this season is essential, but he must also evolve as a pass defender.

RT Warren McClendon Jr.

McClendon Jr. caught attention last season stepping in for the injured Rob Havenstein, starting ten games and demonstrating solid performance in both pass and run blocking, earning high marks from PFF.

This transition went remarkably well, reflecting the Rams’ adept drafting strategies. Now he must transition into his role as a full-time starter.

Reasons for optimism

The Rams wrapped up the last season boasting one of the league’s strongest rosters, and with the additions of Garrett, McDuffie, and Watson, they’ve only enhanced their chances. There’s a possibility of Donald returning too. Stafford is on a high coming off an MVP season, weaponry is plentiful, and their head coach is among the best in the league.