The Los Angeles Rams have several positions in which the depth chart and the starter could change frequently through the next six months. Perhaps none more obvious than tight end, where at least five names seem worthy of making the roster, and a couple more would like to push for a spot in training camp.
Of those top five, two stand out for experience and starting experience: Tyler Higbee and Colby Parkinson.
Which of those two tight ends is more important to the success of the 2026 Rams? That’s the next
matchup in the Tournament of Rampions, followed by a vote for the most important linebacker.
Matchup 8 vs 9: Higbee or Parkinson?
8) Colby Parkinson
9) Tyler Higbee
Parkinson had his best season yet in 2025, but already some writers are trying to stir up rumors that he’d be a cap casualty after the team drafted Max Klare. Realistically, Parkinson is more likely to be healthy and productive than Higbee, the veteran who just signed a two-year extension. However, Parkinson has been with Sean McVay since the beginning and the head coach knows what (and who) he likes.
Who is more important in 2026?
Matchup 8 vs 9 (Defense): Landman or Stuard?
8) Nate Landman
9) Grant Stuard
You may think this should be Omar Speights or even Shaun Dolac, but behind the scenes of our tournament committee, there was more momentum for Grant Stuard than any other linebacker. Or even other corners, pass rushers, and defensive tackles who made the list. Maybe that’s because McVay has called out Stuard as a guy who won’t only be one of L.A.‘s best special teamers, but also someone who could be a major contributor on defense.
That’ll still be tough for him to beat Landman, the linebacker who the Rams extended last season (but then he sort of fell off after that), but in any case we should expect a heavy rotation at the position…again. The Rams seem to have an ongoing problem settling on a linebacker duo.
Comment below for more arguments of who should have made the tournament over any of these players. Next time we’ll do matchups for the Kams and the offensive linemen.
Kyren Williams and Kobie Turner have won their first round matchups.
