Rams finalize a 53-man roster with four edge rushers and strong defensive depth, setting a foundation for Week 1 while managing waiver twists. Willie Lamin IV moved on to Philadelphia via waivers, reshaping LA’s edge plans. Chris Paul Jr. cleared waivers and joined Seattle’s practice squad. Brennan Jackson landed with Las Vegas, Darion Kendrick with Seattle, and Charles Woods with New England. Desan Johnson earned a roster spot thanks to his preseason pass-rush impact, while the Rams projected practice-squad options like AJR Curry, Dylan McMahon, and Brennan Presley to fill intake after cuts.

In the broader roster snapshot, the Rams emphasized development and positional flexibility, keeping a compact but versatile front seven, plus a realistically productive group of running backs and receivers for Week 1. The team’s depth on defense, plus the preparation of practice-squad players, suggests a measured, data-driven approach to navigating the early-season grind and potential injuries.

Seattle’s initial 53-man roster has already been shuffled, with Derion Kendrick claimed off waivers from the Rams to bolster the secondary and Shaquille Griffin released to open a spot. Kendrick is expected to land in Seattle’s depth chart and could factor in nickel duties if needed, while Griffin remains in town for potential future moves. Federico Morang earned a spot on the 17-man practice squad, and Seattle kept Amari Kite and Jakardia Wright along with Damen Martinez on the practice squad, signaling a fluid, depth-focused approach ahead of Week 1.

The hosts also weighed trade possibilities and returned to the waiver wire as John Schneider contends with depth at guard, nose tackle, and linebacker positions. The roster dynamics suggest a bite-size path to upgrades via signings or waivers rather than big trades, with nose tackle still a clear area of focus. A robust, versatile practice squad underpins Seattle’s plan to stay competitive in the churn of early-season moves.

Finally, the discussion turned to future moves and mailbag questions, including potential targets like MazI Smith and other interior options. The team’s approach mirrors a “go-for-it” mindset, where depth, versatility, and quick elevations from the practice squad could define Seattle’s early-season identity as they prepare for a Week 1 showdown with San Francisco.

The Los Angeles Rams are making headlines with recent roster moves, including the surprising cut of quarterback Derion Kendrick, a strategic shift aimed at freeing up salary cap space. Cutting Kendrick saves the team approximately $3.4 million, a significant amount as they prepare for the upcoming mini-camp. Despite starting 18 games from 2022 to 2023, Kendrick’s recovery from an ACL injury and off-field distractions hindered his chances of contributing this season.

In light of these developments, the Rams are evaluating potential cap casualties ahead of mini-camp. Tight end Colby Parkinson is under scrutiny due to his underwhelming performance last season, which could see the Rams saving $5.25 million should they decide to move on from him. The team's management appears to be weighing their options carefully, with the future of other players like Quintes Cephus also in question.