The Los Angeles Rams have been quietly reshuffling their roster in recent days, and while on the surface it might look like a simple case of undoing previous moves, there’s more going on behind the scenes. These aren’t just routine transactions-they’re calculated steps that reflect how the Rams are managing the stretch run of their season while keeping an eye on the bigger picture.
Let’s break it down.
Nick Hampton Gets the Call-Up
The headliner here is outside linebacker Nick Hampton getting promoted from the practice squad to the active roster. This isn’t just a depth move-it’s a strategic one.
The Rams’ pass rush, which flashed some heat with a pair of sacks against the Panthers, has cooled off since. Hampton brings fresh legs and energy off the edge, and his return gives defensive coordinator Chris Shula more flexibility in managing the snap counts of his top rushers, Jared Verse and Byron Young.
Both Verse and Young have been high-motor guys all season, but keeping them fresh-especially late in games-could be the difference in tight matchups. Hampton’s presence helps maintain that rotation without a significant drop-off in pressure. It’s the kind of subtle move that doesn’t always make headlines but can pay dividends on third-and-long.
Practice Squad Shuffles and Depth Moves
The Rams also added defensive back Alex Johnson back to the practice squad, filling a void created by earlier roster adjustments. Johnson’s return is about more than just numbers-it’s about keeping the secondary room healthy and ready. With injuries always a threat late in the season, having a player familiar with the system ready to step in is a smart insurance policy.
Meanwhile, cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon has been placed on injured reserve. That’s a blow to the secondary, no doubt, but the timing of these moves suggests the Rams are confident in their depth and are positioning themselves to weather the loss without scrambling.
Looking Ahead: Reserve/Future Contracts
Even with the current season still in play, the Rams are already doing some groundwork for 2026. Two players-offensive lineman Wyatt Bowles and wide receiver Mario Williams-have been signed to Reserve/Future contracts.
Bowles turned heads during the preseason with strong play, but the numbers game kept him on the outside looking in. The Rams clearly value what they saw, and bringing him back into the fold signals that they see potential in his development.
Williams is in a similar boat. He was released to make room for veteran offensive line help, but the Rams kept tabs on him.
Now they’re bringing him back, which suggests there’s something they like-whether it’s his route running, special teams ability, or just raw upside. These aren’t just filler signings; they’re investments in players the Rams believe can grow into contributors.
Injury Report: Mostly Good News
As for the injury front, the Rams are in relatively good shape heading into their frigid road trip to Chicago. Only two names remain on the report: backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (back) and edge rusher Desjuan Johnson (illness). Everyone else is trending in the right direction.
That includes wide receiver Jordan Whittington, who’s expected to return. He’s a physical presence and a key piece on special teams-an area that often swings field position in cold-weather games. Nose tackle Poona Ford, who had been a concern earlier in the week, also appears to be good to go.
At this point in the season, any team that isn’t dealing with a laundry list of injuries is ahead of the curve. The Rams have managed to stay relatively healthy, and that’s no small feat. With playoff positioning on the line and a tough matchup ahead, having key contributors available could make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
What we’re seeing from the Rams right now is a front office and coaching staff that’s locked in. Every move-whether it’s a practice squad shuffle, an injury designation, or a future contract-is part of a broader plan. Les Snead and company are threading the needle between short-term performance and long-term development, and they’re doing it with precision.
This is the time of year when little things matter. A fresh edge rusher, a timely return from injury, a young player stashed for next season-it all adds up. And if the Rams can keep this momentum going, they could be a tough out for anyone down the stretch.