Recently, the Los Angeles Rams announced their coaching staff for the 2026 season and how Sean McVay aims to navigate the franchise to Super Bowl LXI. Sometimes, a coaching hire is just a schematic fit. But it also affords the opportunity to sign or acquire players based on player-coach connections around the league. Here is a comprehensive look at whether the Los Angeles Rams could realistically attract 2026 NFL free agents based on their recent coaching hires — specifically the addition of Kliff Kingsbury (Washington Commanders) as Assistant Head Coach and Bubba Ventrone (Indianapolis Colts and Cleveland Browns) as Special Teams Coach — and which free agents from the Washington Commanders, Indianapolis Colts, and Cleveland Browns might draw interest.
Washington Commanders
Based on the 2026 free agent lists from Spotrac and offseason projections:
- Deebo Samuel, WR (UFA) : One of the bigger names available if not franchise tagged. A dangerous playmaker in space, Samuel could immediately upgrade Los Angeles’ weapons beyond Nacua/Adams. Samuel was a thorn in the Rams side while playing for the 49ers.
- Noah Brown, WR (UFA) : A big, physical target who could provide depth and red-zone presence.
- Von Miller, EDGE (UFA) : I’m not sure if there is any bad blood with the Rams and Von Miller based on the 2022 offseason. But, Von Miller is clearly past the prime of his career. At age 37, he is simply chasing the opportunity for another ring. If he wants to win a 3rd ring with a 3rd franchise, LA obviously won’t be considered. But he if wants to rejoin Los Angeles, a place he openly admitted to loving every day because if felt like the Pro Bowl, then he could be a great mentor and rotational option for Jared Verse and Byron Young. He only made $6.1 million in 2025. Miller still logged 9 sacks, 6 Tackles for Loss, and 15 QB hits.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts’ pending free agents may not be headline stars, but there are value pieces:
- Braden Smith, RT (UFA) : A proven tackle with power and pass protection acumen. The Rams offensive line could use competition and depth at tackle/guard.
- Nick Cross, S (UFA) : A former pupil under Bubba Ventrone in Indy. Cross played 47.4% of the special teams in 2022 as a rookie under Ventrone.
- Rodney Thomas II, CB/S (UFA) : Similar to Cross, Thomas’s rookie season was Ventrone’s final season in Indianapolis. Thomas played 28.0% of the special teams snaps in 2022. But was also an impact player on the defensive side in 2022; tallying 4 interceptions. Thomas has played all 68 games in his 4 year career. With a 6’2” frame, the Rams may be intrigued with his size. He also offers a lot of speed, explosion, and agility…
Given the Rams’ existing core offensive line, adding a player like Smith could solidify a unit destined to protect Stafford and open lanes in the run game.
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland is experiencing a substantial roster turnover, with multiple veterans hitting free agency:
- Joel Bitonio, G (UFA) : A long-time All-Pro guard who could immediately improve interior blocking. If Bitonio wants to win at the end of his career, LA would be a wise choice. Bitonio is from Los Angeles, CA. The Rams tried to trade for him in 2019 but CLE was not willing to accept their offer. The Rams OL already has Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson, so it’s hard to envision a fit here unless Bitonio and the Rams saw center as an option.
Which of these free agents would you consider signing?
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