The upcoming season is pivotal for the Los Angeles Rams, as it is being characterized as a "Super Bowl or bust" campaign. The team has made significant moves in the offseason, acquiring high-profile players such as Myles Garrett, Trent McDuffie, Jaylen Watson, and the veteran defensive stalwart Aaron Donald. Additionally, the Rams are led by 38-year-old quarterback Matthew Stafford, who is reportedly contemplating retirement after the 2026 season, adding to the urgency of their current ambitions.
However, the Rams' quest for a championship this year is further complicated by the looming prospect of losing several key players to free agency. Currently, the Rams have 11 starters on both offense and defense whose contracts are set to expire at the end of the season. This list also includes their two primary specialists, Harrison Mevis and Ethan Evans, bringing the total to 13 significant contributors who could be donning different colors in the near future.
The players at risk of leaving include notable names such as wide receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, defensive tackle Aaron Donald, and several offensive linemen including Kevin Dotson, Coleman Shelton, and Steve Avila. The list also features outside linebacker Byron Young and defensive tackle Kobie Turner, among others. This situation indicates that the Rams could face a major overhaul in their roster if they are unable to secure new contracts for these players.
While the Rams are expected to retain some of their key players, it is highly unlikely they will be able to keep all of them. Young talents like Nacua, Avila, and McClendon are currently on rookie contracts but will likely seek substantial raises in 2027, whether from the Rams or elsewhere in free agency. The challenge for the Rams will be balancing their budget while ensuring they keep their most valuable assets.
Donald, a future Hall of Famer, may choose to retire after this season, which would not be a surprise given his age and the wear of a long career. On the other hand, players like Omar Speights and Harrison Mevis, who are entering restricted and exclusive rights free agency respectively, may be easier for the Rams to retain if the team opts to do so.
Kevin Dotson stands out as a crucial player to keep, given that he remains in the prime of his career and is expected to command a significant salary next offseason. Similarly, Coleman Shelton has emerged as an essential component of the Rams' offensive line at center. Meanwhile, Adams, who is nearing the twilight of his career, could find himself in a position where he must choose between continuing with the Rams or retiring altogether.
In addition to the starters, there are several other players whose contracts are expiring but who play vital roles for the team. Safety Jaylen McCollough, quarterback Stetson Bennett, and wide receiver/punt returner Xavier Smith are among those who could impact the Rams' depth and overall performance moving forward. Tight end Davis Allen and cornerbacks Emmanuel Forbes Jr. and Josh Wallace also add to the mix, though they may not be starters, their contributions are nonetheless significant.
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