With two preseason games in the books, the Los Angeles Rams are getting a much clearer picture of what their 2026 rookie class can bring to the roster. The five draft picks have taken different paths through training camp and the preseason, with some seeing their stock rise and others dealing with setbacks.
Ty Simpson and CJ Daniels have made positive impressions, while Max Klare has landed somewhere in the middle. Meanwhile, injuries and inconsistent play have made things more difficult for Keagen Trost and Tim Keenan III.
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Here is a look at where each Rams rookie stands heading toward the final preseason game.
Ty Simpson — Stock Up 📈
Ty Simpson’s stock continues to trend upward after an impressive preseason debut against the Kansas City Chiefs. The first-round quarterback completed 14 of 20 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns, showing the arm talent and poise that made him the No. 13 overall pick.
While his second preseason game against New Orleans was quieter, Simpson remains firmly in the conversation for the backup quarterback job behind Matthew Stafford. Sean McVay has confirmed that Simpson will receive another opportunity in the preseason finale, giving him another chance to prove that his development is progressing quickly.
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Why stock is up: Simpson has demonstrated enough physical talent and command of the offense to make the quarterback competition legitimate. The Rams clearly see potential in their first-round pick, and another strong performance could put even more pressure on Stetson Bennett.
Max Klare — Push ➡️
Max Klare has probably experienced the most understandable stock fluctuation of the five rookies. The second-round tight end opened the preseason with an encouraging performance against Kansas City, catching seven passes for 37 yards on eight targets. He led all Rams receivers in targets and showed that he can be a reliable option in the passing game.
His second preseason game against New Orleans was considerably quieter, however. That doesn’t erase what Klare showed in his debut, but it also doesn’t provide enough evidence to say his stock has clearly risen.
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Why it’s a push: Klare may be TE5, but the Rams are going to use him with the commitment to 13 personnel. He may not lead the tight end room in playing time but he’s going to get his number called.
Keagen Trost — Stock Down 📉
Keagen Trost’s stock has taken a hit primarily because he has been unable to be on the field. The third-round offensive tackle suffered a hamstring injury in the preseason opener against Kansas City and remains sidelined.
The timing is particularly unfortunate because Trost entered the preseason needing valuable repetitions as he adjusts to the NFL. With the Rams dealing with uncertainty along the offensive line, every preseason opportunity is important for a rookie trying to establish himself.
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Why stock is down: This isn’t necessarily an indictment of Trost’s talent. The biggest issue is simply availability. Missing valuable preseason action prevents him from building momentum and gives other offensive linemen an opportunity to pass him on the depth chart.
CJ Daniels — Stock Up 📈
CJ Daniels has quietly become one of the biggest risers in the Rams’ rookie class. After a relatively quiet opening preseason game, Daniels responded against New Orleans with eight catches on 13 targets for 68 yards. That performance helped strengthen his case in a crowded wide receiver competition.
Daniels is competing with several players for opportunities behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, making every target meaningful. His ability to consistently get open and produce when given opportunities is exactly what the Rams need from a rookie receiver.
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Why stock is up: Since WR3 is still a revolving door between Jordan Whittingon, Xavier Smith, and Konata Mumpfield, Daniels strong preseason game shows that he could be deserving of a look in 11 personnel situations.
Tim Keenan III — Stock Down 📉
Tim Keenan III entered the Rams’ rookie class as a seventh-round defensive tackle facing an uphill battle to secure a roster spot. Unlike the higher-profile rookies, Keenan doesn’t have the benefit of draft capital working in his favor, meaning he needs to consistently stand out during preseason opportunities.
Through the first two preseason games, he hasn’t done enough to separate himself from the competition. The Rams have considerable depth along the defensive front, making the battle for the final roster spots particularly difficult. Recent roster projections have identified Keenan as competing for one of the final defensive tackle positions. But in all likelihood, his spot is in jeopardy because of Aaron Donald contemplating a return.
Why stock is down: Keenan received the lowest PFF grade out of any Rams defender in the New Orleans Saints preseason game.
