The Los Angeles Rams were not in attendance at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. This week still provided insight into their potential offseason plans and helped shape our expectations for the coming months.
What did we learn from the rumor mill at the combine? Let’s take a moment to reflect on the week.
Extension coming for RT Warren McClendon?
A deeper dive from Blaine Grisak here.
McClendon was essentially like finding a $100 bill in the pocket of your jeans that you hadn’t worn for a long time. He saved the Rams from needing to fill a major need at right tackle this offseason given Rob Havenstein’s long tenure, recent injury history, and retirement. Tackles are not cheap to acquire, whether via free agency or the draft.
While there is some risk in extending a player who has less than a full season of starting experience, this is certainly a sign that the team expects McClendon to start in 2026 and is someone they want to keep around long term.
Now the real question is whether McClendon will perform like Joe Noteboom after the extension. There are some eerie parallels from LA’s recent history.
Puka Nacua could get record-setting money
Puka Nacua is another player that the Rams will consider for an extension. He’s expected to break the bank, and the only real uncertainty is whether Nacua will get paid more than NFC West rival Jaxon Smith-Njigba of the Seattle Seahawks.
On paper the Rams look like they have ample salary cap space. That could quickly diminish if they commit big dollars to keeping their own players whose contracts will soon expire. It’s a good problem to have.
Rams connected to Anthony Richardson?
The Colts have granted permission to Anthony Richardson to seek a trade. Given the Rams have a longer term need at quarterback, they will likely be connected to any lower cost swing at the position in the coming months. LA isn’t desperate and has time to figure out life after Matthew Stafford; however, the earlier they start planning for the transition the smoother it is likely to go.
Ty Simpson cements status as QB#2
Barring a historic trade up for Fernando Mendoza, the Rams are likely to miss out on this year’s top draft quarterback.
If Los Angeles still feels compelled to use their “bonus” first round pick for succession planning, with each passing day Ty Simpson seems to be strengthening his grip on the second slot behind Mendoza. There is a lot to like about Simpson. He’s a natural thrower of the football and has impressive touch. The mistakes he does make can be attributed to a lack of playing time, though you only get to use that excuse for so long and the NFL provides little runway.
Rams have their mind on top corners
LA formally met with top corner prospects including Mansoor Delane of LSU. It’s tough to discern the Rams’ intentions at the combine (intentionally) because their top brass is not in attendance. LA also takes measure to keep their “top 30” prospect visits from going unreported. Occasionally we get tea leaves like this one and can only assume they know they must improve at corner.
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