The Los Angeles Rams rarely operate like a franchise content with standing still. Every offseason under head coach Sean McVay brings aggressive roster moves, calculated risks, and a belief that the organization can compete with anyone when healthy. After reshaping parts of the roster again this offseason, expectations are rising entering training camp.
The Rams still have veteran leadership, offensive firepower, and a young defensive core that appears ready to take another step in 2026. But before training camp practices even begin, it is already time for some bold predictions surrounding this team.
Advertisement
Here are five way-too-early Rams hot takes for the 2026 season.
1. Jarquez Hunter becomes the Rams goal line running back
I said hot takes. So let’s be bold. Having One of the more surprising developments by midseason could be rookie Jarquez Hunter carving out a major short-yardage role in the Rams offense.
The Rams have leaned heavily on Kyren Williams over the last several seasons, but there is a growing case for the coaching staff wanting to preserve Williams over a full 17-game schedule. That could open the door for Hunter to become the designated power option near the goal line. Of the three main running backs, Hunter has more size than Williams and Corum.
Advertisement
Let’s also not forget that Kyren Williams has been guilty of some key fumbles throughout his time with LA.
2. Rams keep 6(!) tight ends
Keeping six tight ends may sound excessive in today’s NFL, but the Rams could justify it because of how versatile the room has become and their reliance on 13 personnel.
Veterans and younger developmental players all bring something different to the offense. Some can stretch the field vertically, others contribute as blockers, while several offer special teams value. The Rams also appear interested in using heavier personnel groupings more frequently in 2026, especially against physical NFC opponents.
Advertisement
Guaranteed to make the roster: Tyler Higbee, Colby Parkinson, Terrance Ferguson, Max Klare
Davis Allen is entering the final year of his rookie deal and should definitely make the team, unless traded. However, the Rams could also keep an undrafted free agent…
Dan Villari was the Rams most “expensive” undrafted free agent signing. Why would the team sign a tight end with guaranteed money knowing that they had 5 tight ends already rostered and likely to make the roster?
3. Stafford throws for 40 touchdowns again
To some this may not seem like a hot take. But let me assure you that it is. No QB in NFL history has ever thrown 40+ touchdowns four times in their career. Stafford would break a tie with Tom Brady, who both have three 40+ touchdown seasons.
Advertisement
With consistent protection, another year in McVay’s offense, and the interchanging of 11 and 13 personnel, Stafford reaching 40 touchdown passes is not out of the question. The Rams remain one of the more pass-heavy offenses in football when games matter most, and Stafford still possesses elite anticipation and arm talent.
The biggest factor may be continuity. Unlike previous years where injuries constantly shuffled the offense, the Rams could enter 2026 with far more stability around Stafford.
If that happens, the offense has the potential to become explosive on a weekly basis. Stafford may no longer be in his physical prime, but mentally he still processes defenses as well as nearly any quarterback in the league.
A 40-touchdown campaign would likely put him firmly back into the MVP conversation.
Advertisement
4. Rams trade for a premium WR before NFL trade deadline
The Rams have never been shy about making in-season trades if they believe a championship window is open. That trend could continue in 2026.
Even after adding talent this offseason, there is still a realistic scenario where Los Angeles aggressively pursues another proven receiver before the trade deadline. Injuries happen every year, and contenders frequently look for veteran help entering the second half of the season.
The Rams also understand how dangerous their offense becomes when Stafford has multiple high-end targets capable of winning one-on-one matchups.
Advertisement
General manager Les Snead has built a reputation for bold roster decisions, and few contenders are more willing to sacrifice future draft capital for immediate upgrades.
If a rebuilding team makes a veteran receiver available around midseason, the Rams will almost certainly be involved in discussions. Look for the following names to be on the trade block between now and the trade deadline: George Pickens, Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, AJ Brown, Jerry Jeudy, or Chris Olave.
Do not be surprised if Los Angeles adds another big-name offensive weapon for a playoff push.
5. Rams lead NFL in sacks
The Rams’ young defensive core could officially arrive in 2026 by turning into the most disruptive pass-rushing unit in football.
Advertisement
After spending the last few seasons rebuilding the defensive front following Aaron Donald’s retirement, Los Angeles suddenly has waves of athleticism, speed, and versatility along the defensive line. Several young players gained meaningful experience early in their careers, and that development could pay off in a major way this season.
Defensive coordinator Chris Shula may also become more aggressive schematically now that the Rams have greater depth in the front seven. More blitz packages, simulated pressures, and rotational pass-rush groups could overwhelm opposing offensive lines over the course of a full season.
The additions of Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson could also help the defensive line get home as Shula is expected to utilize more press technique with his offseason acquisitions.
Now that the Rams have the pieces in the back end, the pass rush could become the best we’ve seen since the Aaron Donald years.
