Los Angeles enters 2025 with what coach Mike LaFleur calls the deepest offensive line in his three years with the Rams. Five anchors are locked in as starters—Alaric Jackson, Steve Avila, Coleman Shelton, Kevin Dotson and Rob Havenstein—providing far more stability than the injury‑studded rotations of recent seasons. The second unit remains a fluid mix, with D.J. Humphries serving as a potential Week 1 fill‑in at left tackle if Jackson isn’t ready, and Beaux Limmer and Justin Dedich among interior backups pushing for reps. David Quessenberry and Warren McClendon Jr. are also in the mix at tackle and guard, while KT Leveston and Wyatt Bowles have flashed in the preseason. Undrafted Willie Lampkin, whose health will factor into roster decisions, still has a hopeful path to a 53‑man spot. The Rams face tough cuts on Tuesday as they balance the desire to carry elite depth with the practical limits of a large 53. The takeaway: this unit has the talent to weather injuries and season-long rigors, but the real test will be trimming the roster without sacrificing floor depth.

Rams 2025 outlook hinges on health, with ESPN predicting a ceiling of 12-5 and a floor of 7-10, a wide swing that underscores how thin margins can tilt a season in the ultra-competitive NFC West. Matthew Stafford's back soreness and left tackle Alaric Jackson's blood clots are the two biggest early-season questions, and their status will drive everything from drive sustainability to protection in pass-heavy sets. The offensive line is labeled the X-factor, and staying healthy there could unlock the playmakers on offense and keep the defense buoyant.

Jackson's availability for Week 1 is pivotal; any absence would stress the blind side and complicate Stafford’s comfort level, especially as the quarterback enters his 17th season. The Rams reportedly have confidence in Jimmy Garoppolo if needed, offering veteran steadiness as a contingency. Given Barshop’s range, the Rams must navigate a narrow path between double-digit wins and a hard reset, making health at the line the season’s most consequential variable.

Seven Rams cleared for practice this week—Kobie Turner, Nate Landman, Kam Curl, Ahkello Witherspoon, Poona Ford, Kevin Dotson and Mark Redman—with Stetson Bennett and Terrance Ferguson also nearing a return. Stafford’s availability remains murky, so coach McVay plans to ease the offense back in, resting most starters for the upcoming tilt vs. the Chargers. The team shifts focus to a joint Saints practice on Thursday, while depth pieces and TE competition (Redman, Castles) aim to bolster the final two preseason games. Overall health looks improved versus last season, painting a clearer path to a productive camp finish and a sharper regular-season roster.

Matthew Stafford hasn’t practiced in nearly three weeks because of a back injury, and the Los Angeles Rams are still trying to lock in a Week 1 left tackle. Alaric Jackson hasn’t practiced at all after battling blood clots, opening a four-man competition in camp between Warren McClendon, D.J. Humphries and David Quessenberry, with Jackson’s status up in the air. McVay has signaled Humphries as the likely starter if Jackson can’t go, while McClendon has flashed capability at left tackle and Quessenberry remains a versatile depth option. Stafford threw about 60 passes in a recent session and didn’t appear rusty, but the team wants him practicing again soon to ease the protection concerns. Houston’s defensive front, led by Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, looms as a serious Week 1 test, especially if the left tackle situation lingers.

Jackson’s potential return is a big variable as the opener nears, and the Rams are using the camp period to evaluate multiple bodies who can play either tackle spot. McVay praised the competition and noted the trio’s recent strides, while acknowledging the need for more practice reps for whoever lines up at left tackle. The Rams’ protection plan hinges on Stafford’s health and a quick ramp back into full practice, with Week 1 against the Texans appearing as a challenging first test for the revamped line.

Stafford’s back issue adds another layer of risk as the Rams try to balance a fragile line with a stout Texans pass rush. With McClendon and Humphries pushing for the left side and Quessenberry’s familiarity, L.A. has depth, but the lack of certainty could influence fantasy lineups and game scripts. The Rams will continue evaluating daily, taking a day-by-day approach as they near the season’s start.

The Los Angeles Rams' training camp kicked off recently, showcasing both challenges and promising developments. Matthew Stafford's back injury raised concerns as he missed initial practices, leading to cautious management by coach Sean McVay. Meanwhile, second-year receiver Jordan Whittington emerged as a standout performer, hinting at a breakout season, especially with the absence of some key players. Rookie quarterback Stetson Bennett took advantage of Stafford's absence, impressing with his improved confidence and poise. Nate Landman has solidified his role as the leading inside linebacker, showing great communication and playmaking ability that bodes well for the defense.

The Rams' secondary depth also surprised many, featuring strong contributions from players like Kamren Curl and Cobie Durant. Alaric Jackson's recovery from blood clots appears to be progressing well, while negotiations for Kyren Williams' contract are ongoing, with both parties optimistic about a resolution. Additionally, the rookie class has proven to be a significant asset early in the camp, showcasing their potential to make an immediate impact.