Sean McVay continues to receive recognition for guiding the Los Angeles Rams back into contention in the NFC. After significant roster changes over recent seasons, the Rams approach 2025 with a mix of experienced veterans and emerging younger players, positioning themselves as potential championship contenders.
Key additions through free agency include wide receiver Davante Adams, wide receiver Britain Covey, linebacker Nate Landman, nose tackle Poona Ford, and center Coleman Shelton. Adams brings more than 10,000 receiving yards to the team and will join Puka Nacua under McVay’s offensive strategies.
The team has also faced some departures in free agency. The most notable is wide receiver Cooper Kupp, remembered for his leadership and major contributions during past playoff runs. Other losses involve several defensive tackles, linebackers, offensive linemen, and receivers.
The 2025 draft class introduced tight end Terrance Ferguson from Oregon, edge rusher Josiah Stewart from Michigan, running back Jarquez Hunter from Auburn, defensive tackle Ty Hamilton from Ohio State, linebacker Chris Paul Jr. from Ole Miss, and wide receiver Konata Mumpfield from Pittsburgh. Ferguson is viewed as a strong fit for the Rams’ system and may take on a larger role if veteran Tyler Higbee’s availability continues to be affected by injuries.
Head coach Sean McVay enters his ninth season leading the Rams with an 80-52 record at age 39. Since his arrival in Los Angeles at age 31—after serving as Washington’s offensive coordinator—McVay has led the Rams to four division titles and six playoff appearances including two Super Bowl games and one victory in 2021.
Mike LaFleur serves as offensive coordinator for his third season at age 38. He joined after coaching stints with the New York Jets and San Francisco 49ers. Under LaFleur’s guidance alongside McVay’s leadership, young players such as Nacua and Kyren Williams have advanced within an improving offense.
Chris Shula is now in his second season as defensive coordinator at age 39. Following Aaron Donald’s retirement last March, Shula took responsibility for reorganizing a younger defense that remained productive throughout last season. Shula previously worked on staff since McVay became head coach in 2017. He is also the son of Dave Shula and grandson of Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinee Don Shula who holds the record for most career head coaching wins at 347.
Chase Blackburn returns as special teams coordinator for a third season after previous experience with Carolina Panthers. Blackburn had a decade-long NFL playing career highlighted by two Super Bowl championships with the New York Giants.
The upcoming schedule begins against Houston Texans on CBS before road games against Tennessee Titans and Philadelphia Eagles followed by matchups against multiple conference opponents through December. A challenging stretch between Weeks Fifteen through Seventeen could determine their postseason outlook.
As long as Matthew Stafford remains healthy with support from key veterans and rising contributors—and Jimmy Garoppolo available if needed—the Rams are expected to maintain competitiveness throughout the year.
Even amid questions regarding Stafford’s health entering this season, expectations remain high due to offseason moves intended to close gaps with other top NFC teams like Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions.
