The Rams have emerged as the standout team this NFL offseason.
They secured a trade for All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie, signed cornerback Jalen Watson, acquired two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, and drafted what many expect to be their future franchise quarterback, Ty Simpson.
And that’s just scratching the surface, as they also managed to re-sign several key free agents.
Beyond merely signing Pro Bowl players, the Rams focused on bringing in seasoned leaders to guide a new wave of young talent.
The first day of training camp began at Loyola Marymount University, marking a significant moment for the team. It provided everyone an opportunity to practice the fundamentals of football: 11-on-11 drills, where offense meets defense. Following that initial day, a clear message resonated: the presence of numerous veteran players across all positions would greatly benefit the younger athletes.
We can start with the two-time Super Bowl champions, McDuffie and Watson.
“They’re true pros,” said defensive coordinator Chris Shula regarding the new cornerbacks. “They bring valuable insights. Leadership revolves around influence.”
This influence was already evident on the practice field. The younger defensive backs eagerly engaged McDuffie and Watson with questions during breaks. Instead of hoarding their wisdom, the veterans freely shared it. The dialogue flowed easily, reminiscent of a gentle ocean breeze.
“Everyone is pooling their knowledge to forge the best defense possible,” Shula noted.
McDuffie, who previously spent four seasons with the Chiefs, could have walked into camp boasting two Super Bowl rings, but he chose to leave that notion behind.
“We’re not here to alter the culture,” McDuffie remarked after practice. “This is an opportunity to build off one another. I think it’s important that everyone has a voice.”
This collaborative mentality is already apparent in the Rams’ locker room, featuring seasoned leaders like quarterback and reigning MVP Matthew Stafford, safety Quentin Lake, linebacker Nate Landman, running back Kyren Williams, defensive end Coby Turner, and punter Ethan Evans. The roster now also includes McDuffie, Watson, and Garrett.
Garrett’s addition may stand out as the most significant. As a seven-time Pro Bowler and five-time All-Pro, his mere presence can influence games. He set the NFL’s single-season sack record last season with 23 sacks while playing for the Browns, surpassing records held by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt. His impact on teammates could prove just as valuable as his on-field performance.
“When he’s around, you feel his energy,” McDuffie said of Garrett. “People talk about a player’s aura, and he certainly has that. He’s massive—truly imposing.”
New Rams special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone, who previously coached Garrett in Cleveland, has an intimate understanding of his character.
“When we had the chance to acquire him, folks started asking me about his personality,” Ventrone shared. “Having coached him for three years, I can say he’s not only a phenomenal player but also a dedicated teammate and an exceptional athlete. Everyone recognizes that he’s a unique talent.”
Ventrone, whose task is to revitalize a struggling special teams unit, has also added veteran members like Joe Cardona and Grant Steward to bolster leadership and accountability.
“They rank among my favorite players I’ve ever coached,” Ventrone expressed, highlighting their NFL experience. “They aren’t just intelligent football players; they’re smart individuals. We appreciate Les and Sean for bringing them onboard.”
Snead and McVay haven’t just sought talent this offseason; they’ve wrapped one of the youngest teams in the league with seasoned leaders, mentors, and additional coaching resources.
If all of this pays off with a Super Bowl appearance next February at SoFi Stadium, they may end up having not only one of the most skilled teams in NFL history, but also one of the most astute.
