Rams 2026: Major Scheme Overhaul Underway

Offensive Shifts

The Rams are set to reshape their attack as new talent arrives. Defensive additions like Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson bring distinct skill sets that push the unit toward a more man‑heavy look. Meanwhile, the front office has added Myles Garrett to create organic pass pressure, reducing reliance on the stunts that once defined the defense. The coaching staff also brought in Kliff Kingsbury, signaling a move toward faster, college‑style tempos. This change dovbles the franchise’s recent trend of heavier personnel sets, which the rest of the league is now trying to emulate.

New Faces, New Roles

Key signings and draft picks will directly influence the playbook. The team placed a second‑round pick on a tight end for the second straight year, hinting at a continued commitment to at‑tight options. In the receiving corps, Terrance Ferguson is being eyed as a potential WR/TE hybrid, echoing the old Cooper Kupp model. The 2026 roster also features Ty Simpson, drafted 13th overall, as the quarterback poised to run the up‑tempo attack. These additions suggest the Rams are doubling down on a blend of tight‑end usage and rapid‑set offenses.

Backfield By Committee

Rushing responsibilities are becoming more distributed. Kyren Williams carried the ball in 54% of the backfield snaps last season, a noticeable dip from the 69‑78% range seen before 2025. Blake Corum emerged as a reliable complementary back and is expected to see more carries in 2026. The rotation could expand further if Jarquez Hunter secures a role, potentially creating the most divided backfield in Sean McVay’s tenure. This shared workload aims to keep both players fresh for playoff contention.

Defensive Simplification

The Rams led the league in defensive line stunts, but that may change with Garrett’s arrival. Simpler rush schemes should allow the talent to shine without excessive scheme complexity. Coverage is also shifting from a zone‑heavy approach, historically tied to Jalen Ramsey’s trade, toward more man‑on‑man looks. McDuffie excels in slot coverage against smaller, shifty receivers, while Watson matches up better against larger targets. The staff must decide whether to slot McDuffie primarily at his strong position, which could elevate Emmanuel Forbes to a starter’s role.

Coaching Impact

Kliff Kingsbury’s hire signals a push for faster tempos, a concept he mastered in college before bringing it to the NFL. Pairing Kingsbury’s tempo with Matthew Stafford’s poise could force opponents to simplify their own schemes. Sean McVay’s reputation for adapting plays suggests the Rams will continue to out‑think the competition on game‑day adjustments. The combination of new coaching staff and talent upgrades positions Los Angeles for a more aggressive, talent‑driven approach in 2026.