On both offense and defense, the Los Angeles Rams have a starting lineup as talented as any in the NFL. Offensively, we’ve already seen what Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua can do with Sean McVay’s playbook, ranking as the top offense in 2025. Defensively, Myles Garrett, Trent McDuffie, and Jaylen Watson are added into a unit that could help make Chris Shula a head coach next season.
But although the term “starter” can often be misleading—a player who does not technically start could be more important
and even get more playing time than the one who does—who do Rams fans believe is the most important depth piece on L.A.’s roster?
The Top Depth Rams Players
WR Konata Mumpfield or WR CJ Daniels
Assuming Jordan Whittington wins the WR3 role, which in itself may not be a “starter” given the likelihood of 12 and 13 personnel to be run so often, either Mumpfield or Daniels could be the next-best receiver.
In reality though, Whittington is also probably a reserve and would also qualify.
OL Keagan Trost or OT A.J. Arcuri
The rookie third round pick could be the next man up at tackle or guard. With A.J. Jackson’s suspension potentially on deck, either Trost or Arcuri could be starting at left tackle for the foreseeable future.
RB Blake Corum
If Kyren Williams is the starter, then Corum could be one of the best “handcuff” running backs in the NFL.
QB Ty Simpson
If anything happens to Matthew Stafford, it could be the rookie Simpson starting the next week. If not, then it’s Stetson Bennett, unless a veteran is added before Week 1.
OLB Josaiah Stewart
There seems to be less depth on defense than there is on offense. Stewart didn’t see a lot of action as a rookie, but he’s going to be a major part of the rotation in 2026. He could even be a starter if any injury happens to Garrett or Byron Young.
LB Shaun Dolac or LB Grant Stuard
The linebacker roles are not set in stone. Maybe Dolac or Stuard will move up. Then it could be Omar Speights as the backup.
CB Emmanuel Forbes
Adding McDuffie and Watson meant pushing Forbes into a backup role. It could actually be his best opportunity to develop yet in his still-young NFL career.
Who do you think is the most important backup?
I’ve created a poll with some options, but also add your answer in the comments below.
