Rams 53-man roster projection after 1st preseason game: Changes at RB, OL, CB and more

Rams Roll in Preseason Opener, Roster Projections Shift

The Los Angeles Rams kicked off their preseason with a resounding 31-21 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Stetson Bennett impressed at quarterback, but it was the running backs who truly stole the show. Blake Corum, Jarquez Hunter, and Cody Schrader all shined in the win.

While practice is vital, these early games provide crucial insight into players fighting for roster spots. With one game down, here’s a look at how the Rams' roster might shape up. There are some notable changes brewing at running back, on the offensive line, and at linebacker and cornerback positions. Meanwhile, rising stars at inside linebacker and safety are making their case.

Quarterback (3)

• Matthew Stafford
• Jimmy Garoppolo
• Stetson Bennett

Cut: Dresser Winn

Bennett's training camp performance translated onto the field in Week 1, showcasing confidence and accuracy. His lone interception was a calculated risk against tight coverage. With his impressive showing, he’s making a strong push to secure a spot on the final roster.

Running Back (4)

• Kyren Williams
• Blake Corum
• Jarquez Hunter
• Cody Schrader

Cut: Ronnie Rivers, Jordan Waters

Sean McVay revealed that Rivers will be sidelined for "a little bit of time." This opens the door for Schrader to solidify his place on the team. The Rams kept him on the 53-man roster last season after claiming him off waivers, indicating they value his potential. His impressive performance in Week 1 (five carries, 59 yards, and a receiving touchdown) only strengthens his case.

Wide Receiver (6)

• Puka Nacua
• Davante Adams
• Tutu Atwell
• Jordan Whittington
• Xavier Smith
• Konata Mumpfield

Cut: Britain Covey, Mario Williams, Drake Stoops, Tru Edwards, Brennan Presley

The wide receiver group remains largely unchanged after Week 1. While Smith’s performance bolstered his chances, Covey's strong showing might not be enough to secure a spot with the depth at the position. Mumpfield, despite a few hiccups, is still a lock for the roster.

Tight End (4)

• Tyler Higbee
• Terrance Ferguson
• Colby Parkinson
• Davis Allen

Cut: Anthony Torres, Mark Redman

Allen’s starting role and limited snaps suggest he's in a good position. He appears safe as the fourth tight end on the roster for now.

Offensive Line (10)

• Alaric Jackson
• Steve Avila
• Coleman Shelton
• Kevin Dotson
• Rob Havenstein
• Beaux Limmer
• D.J. Humphries
• Justin Dedich
• Warren McClendon Jr.
• Willie Lampkin

Cut: David Quessenberry, KT Leveston, Dylan McMahon, A.J. Arcuri, Wyatt Bowles, Ben Dooley, Trey Wedig

A notable shift here: Quessenberry out, Lampkin in. Despite being a veteran, Quessenberry played in Week 1 while McClendon Jr. sat out. This indicates McClendon is ahead on the depth chart. The Rams also don't need three backup tackles, especially with Humphries seemingly secure as the left tackle backup. Lampkin’s performance in Week 1 – earning high marks from PFF – demonstrates he can hold his own at center despite his size. McMahon's injury and the offensive line depth could put Leveston at risk.

Defensive Line (6)

• Kobie Turner
• Poona Ford
• Braden Fiske
• Tyler Davis
• Ty Hamilton
• Larrell Murchison

Cut: Desjuan Johnson, Bill Norton, Da’Jon Terry, Decarius Hawthorne, Jack Heflin

Murchison's spot on the roster is still uncertain. While he has work to do, his inclusion for now seems likely, considering how thin the defensive line depth currently appears. The other five players are strong contenders for the 53-man roster.

Outside Linebacker (4)

• Jared Verse
• Byron Young
• Josaiah Stewart
• Keir Thomas

Cut: Brennan Jackson, Nick Hampton, Josh Pearcy, Jamil Muhammad

Jackson and Hampton's quiet offseason performances continued into Week 1. They played significant snaps compared to Thomas, who only saw action for six plays after starting the game. This suggests Thomas is ahead of them in the competition.

Inside Linebacker (4)

• Nate Landman
• Omar Speights
• Troy Reeder
• Chris Paul Jr.

Cut: Shaun Dolac, Elias Neal, Tony Fields II

Despite Dolac’s strong Week 1 performance, his chances might be limited if Reeder secures a spot on the roster. Reeder's inactivity despite being healthy in Week 1 could indicate he's already earned a place on the team.

Cornerback (5)

• Darious Williams
• Ahkello Witherspoon
• Cobie Durant
• Emmanuel Forbes Jr.
• Josh Wallace

Cut: Charles Woods, Derion Kendrick, Shaun Jolly, Cam Lampkin, A.J. Green

The cornerback position is intensely competitive. Wallace’s versatility – playing both cornerback and safety against the Cowboys – could give him an edge over others like Kendrick. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining the final roster spots at this position.

Safety (4)

• Kamren Curl
• Quentin Lake
• Kamren Kinchens
• Jaylen McCollough

Cut: Tanner Ingle, Nate Valcarcel, Malik Dixon-Williams

Valcarcel is making a compelling case for a spot on the 53-man roster. His aggressive play and nine tackles with one pass deflection in Week 1 highlight his potential. He's a player to watch as the Rams evaluate their deep secondary.

Special Teams (3)

• K Joshua Karty
• P Ethan Evans
• LS Alex Ward