The Los Angeles Rams are coming off a 2025 campaign that exceeded just about every expectation. A trip to the NFC Championship Game was no fluke-this team didn’t just get hot at the right time, they showed real staying power.
And here’s what makes it even more impressive: they did it with a young core that hasn’t even hit its financial prime yet. Three of the Rams’ Pro Bowlers are still playing on rookie contracts.
That’s not just good roster management-that’s a front office masterclass.
Two of those young stars are now eligible for contract extensions, and according to head coach Sean McVay, the Rams are planning to lock them up. That’s music to the ears of Rams fans who’ve watched wide receiver Puka Nacua, edge rusher Byron Young, defensive tackle Kobie Turner, and offensive lineman Steve Avila blossom into cornerstone pieces. All four played pivotal roles in the Rams’ postseason run, and the idea of keeping them in horns for years to come is a big win for the franchise.
Of course, every silver lining comes with a salary cap cloud. Extending all four won’t be easy.
It’ll take some creative cap gymnastics from GM Les Snead and the front office. But if there’s one thing we’ve learned about this regime, it’s that they don’t shy away from bold moves.
Whether it’s restructuring deals, backloading contracts, or working the comp pick formula, the Rams have consistently found ways to stay competitive while building for the future.
The Rams’ Core Is Built to Last
Looking ahead to 2026, this team isn’t going anywhere. Even with free agency looming and draft season approaching, the Rams are well-positioned to reload rather than rebuild.
Yes, they’ll have some tough calls to make-some vets with expiring deals may not be back, and a few underperformers could be on the move. But that’s the nature of the NFL.
What sets the Rams apart is their ability to find contributors late in the draft and even after it. Snead has made a habit of turning Day 3 picks into Day 1 starters.
And with a healthy stockpile of draft capital, the Rams are in a strong position to add more talent in April. Assuming they hold onto their picks, there’s a good chance they walk away from the 2026 NFL Draft with multiple players ready to contribute right away. That’s a luxury most playoff teams don’t have.
Stafford’s Future Still a Wild Card
The one big unknown? Quarterback Matthew Stafford.
There’s been plenty of chatter about his future, and while McVay isn’t offering any hints, the speculation isn’t going away. Stafford’s been a warrior for this team-tough, poised, and still capable of delivering when it matters most.
But after 17 seasons, it’s fair to wonder how much more he wants to give.
If Stafford does return for an 18th year, the Rams will again be a serious threat in the NFC. If not, the team will have a major decision to make under center. But even with that question mark, the rest of the roster is in such good shape that the Rams won’t be starting from scratch, no matter what happens at quarterback.
Bottom line: the Rams are built for sustained success. With a young core that’s already producing at a Pro Bowl level, a front office that knows how to find value, and a coaching staff that gets the most out of its players, this team isn’t just reloading-they’re reloading with purpose. And for the rest of the league, that should be a little bit scary.