The Los Angeles Rams are shifting gears. As the 2026 NFL season approaches, the franchise is already laying the groundwork for what’s shaping up to be a transformative year.
The most immediate change? Offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur is heading to the desert to take over as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals.
That alone signals a shakeup is coming to the Rams’ offense.
But while the Rams begin their search for a new offensive architect, they’ve already made a significant move on special teams. Bubba Ventrone steps in as the new special teams coordinator, joined by assistant Kyle Roke.
It’s a hire that may not have been the splashiest name on fans’ wish lists, but it’s a smart one. Ventrone brings a strong track record of connecting with players and identifying college talent - a combination that could pay dividends, especially if the Rams lean on rookies to fill out their special teams units.
And that seems likely. The Rams have been straddling the line between competing now and planning for tomorrow.
But with the roster aging and the cap sheet tightening, it’s becoming clear: the team is preparing for a youth movement. That means some familiar names may not be part of the plan in 2026.
Let’s take a closer look at nine Rams who may have played their final snaps in horns.
9 Rams Who Likely Won’t Return in 2026
9. Ronnie Rivers, RB
Rivers has been a solid depth piece - a dependable insurance policy behind the starters. But with Kyren Williams emerging as a true RB1 and rookies Blake Corum and Jarquez Hunter providing cheaper, younger options, Rivers becomes the odd man out.
He’s not without value, and you can bet Mike LaFleur wouldn’t mind bringing him to Arizona to help install his system.
8. Tyler Higbee, TE
Higbee’s been a steady presence in LA for years, but the last two seasons have been marred by injuries. He’s suited up for just 13 of a possible 34 games.
The Rams are letting him decide if he wants to return, but the writing's on the wall - he’s no longer viewed as a starting-caliber tight end. If he does come back, it’ll likely be in a limited role.
7. Jimmy Garoppolo, QB
Yes, Jimmy G. The veteran backup was brought in as an insurance policy, but with questions swirling around Matthew Stafford’s future, the Rams can’t afford to stay in limbo at the quarterback position.
If Stafford retires, maybe Garoppolo sticks around for a bridge year. But otherwise, those cap dollars are better spent investing in the next face of the franchise.
6. Xavier Smith, PR
Smith’s muffed punt in the NFC Championship Game was a backbreaker, and in a league where special teams mistakes can swing playoff games, that’s hard to come back from. With Ventrone now overseeing special teams, expect a clean slate - and a new returner.
5. Troy Reeder, ILB
Reeder brought veteran experience and contributed on special teams, but the Rams have other plans. Nate Landman has taken on a larger role, and undrafted rookie Shaun Dolac has impressed in the third phase.
Reeder still has something to offer, but he won’t want to play for the vet minimum - and LA can’t afford to pay him more.
4. Derion Kendrick, CB
This one feels inevitable. Kendrick was waived during final cuts, only to be brought back when injuries hit the secondary.
Even then, he saw limited action - and when he did play, the results weren’t encouraging. The Rams are clearly ready to move on.
3. Rob Havenstein, RT
It’s never easy to say goodbye to a long-time starter, and Havenstein has been a cornerstone on the offensive line since the St. Louis days.
But injuries have piled up, and he’s not likely to accept a backup role. With Warren McClendon Jr. showing starter potential, the Rams need to give the younger tackle a full runway.
Havenstein, emotional when discussing his future, knows the end may be near - at least in LA.
2. Beaux Limmer, IOL
Limmer was a Day 3 pick in 2024 with upside, but losing the starting center job to Coleman Shelton in 2025 seemed to derail his confidence. He didn’t show much this past season, and unless he makes major strides in Year 3, it’s hard to justify keeping a developmental lineman who hasn’t developed.
1. Tutu Atwell, WR
Atwell’s speed has never been in question, and his effort has been consistent. But the Rams’ offensive scheme has evolved, and Atwell no longer fits.
After four seasons and a $10 million price tag last year, he spent most of his time on the bench. It’s not that he can’t contribute - just not in this offense.
A fresh start elsewhere could reignite his career.
This isn’t about players failing or falling off. It’s about a team trying to reallocate resources, build for the future, and stay competitive in a brutal NFC landscape.
The Rams are walking a tightrope between honoring their veterans and embracing the next wave of talent. Moves like the hire of Bubba Ventrone hint at a shift in philosophy - one that leans into youth, speed, and adaptability.
So don’t be surprised if these nine names are absent from the 2026 roster. The NFL is a business, and the Rams are making business decisions with an eye on what’s next.