After a rough start filled with injuries, the Los Angeles Rams are roaring back into the NFC West race. Riding a three-game winning streak, the Rams are now just a half-game behind the Arizona Cardinals for the division lead, thanks to an overtime thriller against the Seattle Seahawks. The return of star receivers Cooper Kupp and rookie standout Puka Nacua has reignited the offense, and with quarterback Matthew Stafford back to full strength, the Rams’ playoff hopes are heating up.
Despite a defense hampered by the departure of veteran linebacker Ernest Jones IV, the Rams have managed to hold their ground. Jones IV, traded to the Tennessee Titans before the season, was recently flipped to the Seattle Seahawks, setting up a reunion showdown on the field. Rams GM Les Snead spoke on Tuesday about the decision to trade Jones, hinting at complex factors behind the scenes. “There were many variables,” Snead explained. “It’s never a simple decision, but we made the move thinking it would benefit the Rams in some form or fashion. Ernest can play, no doubt, and we’ll see him again on the field soon.”
Key to the Rams’ defensive resilience has been rookie sensation Jared Verse. Since being drafted in the first round in 2024, Verse has seamlessly filled the gap left by Aaron Donald’s retirement. His tenacity off the edge has transformed the defensive front, tallying 3.5 sacks and nine tackles for loss over eight games. Verse’s impact up front has been crucial as the Rams look to make a playoff push in a wide-open NFC West.
With Stafford and his dynamic receiving corps lighting up the field, the Rams’ offense is back to being a high-octane unit. The recent wins over the Raiders, Vikings, and Seahawks have shown just how dangerous this team can be when healthy. “Matthew can still sling it with the best,” head coach Sean McVay said after Sunday’s win, “and with Cooper and Puka back, it’s full speed ahead.”
Sitting at 4-4, the Rams have their eyes set on a playoff run. After overcoming adversity early in the season, they’re now one of the hottest teams in the league. With a healthy offense and a young, hungry defense, the Rams are primed for a serious NFC West title chase.
