The Rams and Seahawks are set to square off under the lights in Seattle on Thursday night, opening Week 16 with a divisional clash that could carry major postseason weight. For both teams, the stakes are clear: stay alive in the NFC playoff race-or risk falling behind in a crowded field.
But before the first snap, one key storyline has already shifted the outlook for Los Angeles: Davante Adams is officially inactive.
The veteran wideout, who exited last week’s game with a hamstring injury, made the trip with the team and gave it a go in pregame warmups. But after testing the leg, the Rams opted to hold him out-an understandable call given both the short week and the risk of aggravating a soft-tissue injury that’s notoriously tricky to manage.
Adams has been a huge part of L.A.’s offensive resurgence this season. Since signing a two-year, $44 million deal in the offseason, he’s been everything the Rams hoped for and then some-hauling in 60 catches for 789 yards and a remarkable 14 touchdowns over 14 games. His chemistry with Matthew Stafford has been undeniable, and it’s no coincidence that Stafford is putting together one of the most efficient seasons of his career with No. 17 in the fold.
Without Adams, the Rams’ offensive game plan will shift-likely putting even more on the plate of standout rookie Puka Nacua. Nacua has already proven he can handle the spotlight, but this is a different kind of challenge: a primetime divisional game in a hostile environment, with playoff positioning on the line and the team’s top red-zone threat on the sideline.
Expect the Rams to lean on their ground game early to keep Seattle’s defense honest, while also using motion and quick-hitters to get Nacua involved in rhythm. Tutu Atwell and Tyler Higbee could see more targets as well, especially on third downs where Adams has been so reliable.
For the Seahawks, Adams’ absence is a clear break-but it doesn’t make this matchup any less dangerous. Stafford has been dealing, and Sean McVay has shown time and again that he can scheme around missing pieces. Still, without their top receiver, the Rams will need to be sharper in execution and more creative in how they attack Seattle’s secondary.
Bottom line: this is a pivotal NFC West showdown, and while the Rams will be without one of their biggest stars, the playoff urgency remains the same. The margin for error is shrinking, and every snap from here on out matters.