Turf Show Times
The 2026 Los Angeles Rams boast unquestionably the best roster—on paper—in the Sean McVay era and possibly ever. Those are high expectations to put on a team that has yet to play a game when others have won Super Bowls and cemented themselves in NFL history.
If the Rams do not make good on their championship promise over the upcoming season, many will point to their high profile additions as yet another example that the “dream team” model has again failed.
LA added the following notable players over the offseason:
One historical parallel that can be drawn to this year’s Rams team is the 2011 “Dream Team” Philadelphia Eagles. Over the course of a single offseason, Philly attempted to load up for a Super Bowl run. Their additions hold many similarities to who recently joined LA.
Following a season of defensive regression, the Eagles tried to fix secondary struggles by acquiring not one but two high-profile, veteran corners. Similar to LA, they signed Asomugha (Watson) to a large free agent contract and then traded for Rodgers-Cromartie (McDuffie). While this is somewhat in reverse order because the Rams’ free agent deal to Watson should be considered middle market, their trade for McDuffie was one of the largest return compensations for a corner in recent memory.
While history may not remember Babin as a great EDGE rusher, Philly signed him following a 12.5-sack season and he posted 18 sacks with the 2011 team. This was a significant addition for that era of the NFL. Babin paid great dividends for the Eagles. The Rams hope Garrett can do the same and his best production is not behind him.
One other notable but relatively minor similarity is that the Eagles also signed Young as a promising backup to Vick. Andy Reid had already revived the career of Vick, why couldn’t he do the same for Young once Vick’s playing days were over? It was initially viewed as a multi-year addition though Young lasted only a single season in Philly and retired shortly thereafter. The intention was similar to the Rams’ usage of their top draft pick on Ty Simpson.
At risk of oversimplification but in order to keep the conversation broad initially, the Eagles’ “Dream Team” failed because NFL roster building is more complicated than simply collecting talent. Players much compliment each other and match the team’s scheme. Bringing in the most talented individuals may work in the Madden video game but not on the field and in practice.
The first micro reason why the Eagles failed is that the Asomugha...
