Turf Show Times
After a tumultuous training camp, the Los Angeles Rams opened the 2025 NFL preseason with a dominating 31-21 win over the Dallas Cowboys at SoFi Stadium. The game was not as close as the sore would indicate. Dallas scored two fourth quarter touchdowns, while at the same time, the Rams took their foot off the gas and used a punishing ground game to run out the clock.
As per his standard practice, Head Coach Sean McVay did not suit up his starters and primary backups (34 Rams sat out). Still, both the Rams offense and defense were running on all cylinders and it offered fans a good chance to get a glimpse at some of the lower-tier position and roster battles. The combatants did not disappoint. While mistakes were made, effort was strong all through the game and with a slew of different lineups.
Here’s how I saw the game, the battles, and the depth chart.
Didn’t play: Matthew Stafford, Jimmy Garappolo
My depth chart: Stetson Bennett
Bennett played up to hype he’s been receiving from camp. He looked in control, made good choices, and consistently moved the offense. Best of all, the Rams scored touchdowns in the red zone. His play, if continued on through preseason, will force the Rams braintrust into an interesting roster bubble decision. With the overall lack of quarterback talent behind NFL starters, it is unlikely Bennett would clear waivers. Adding him to the opening 53 as QB#3 may be a given, but would risk a position player to the vagaries of the waiver wire.
Didn’t play: Kyren Williams
My depth chart: Blake Corum, Jarquez Hunter, Cody Schrader, Ronnie Rivers, Jordan Waters
The whole group looked good, running with a physical edge. Late in the game, Schrader ran the ball very well and with Rivers exiting with a rib injury, will likely bump up a spot. To really overcome Rivers and have a shot at the active roster, he’ll have to make some noise on special teams. To a lesser extent, Waters is in the same boat. Although Hunter adds a true power element to the offense, I don’t think he did enough against the Cowboys to pass Corum. Not yet anyway.
Didn’t play: Puka Nacua, Davante Adams, Tutu Atwell, Jordan Whittington
My depth chart: Xavier Smith, Konata Mumpfield, Brennan Presley, Britain Covey, Drake Stoops, Mario Williams
Early in the game, Smith looked strong, creating space and showing good hands. He adds speed, kick return ability, and was a gunner on coverage teams last year. Mumpfield had the wide-open drop, but was regularly getting open. If the Rams keep six receivers, he’s still safe. Both Presley and Covey showed what they are about, slot/motion guys with jet sweep and kick return ability. Although still on the outside looking in, their play closed a little ground on Mumpfield. Stoops had a couple of catches, while Williams had a drop.
**Didn’t play: Tyler Higbee, Colby Parkinson,...
