The Los Angeles Rams are set to begin their 2025 training camp with high expectations following an aggressive offseason. Their focus on offensive reinforcements has sparked optimism, yet questions remain on both sides. As training camp opens, the spotlight will shine brightly on several heated position battles.
These competitions could dramatically reshape the roster and determine the Rams’ ability to contend for a deeper playoff run this season. Let’s dive into the most intriguing battles to watch.
Linebacker: A Pivotal Battle for Defensive Stability
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The Rams’ linebacker position, which was beset by inconsistency the previous season, may be their most crucial battle. Now that Christian Rozeboom, a former starter, is in Carolina, the club is up against fierce competition for starting positions.
Omar Speights and Troy Reeder started games last season but struggled to establish themselves as long-term solutions. Both players flashed potential but lacked the steady production the Rams desperately need in the middle of their defense.
In response, Los Angeles signed Nate Landman during free agency. Landman, who spent time with the Falcons, arrives hoping to seize a prominent role. His tenure in Atlanta was marked by steady development, and his familiarity with the Rams’ defensive concepts gives him an edge entering camp. This factor could subtly influence the [Los Angeles Rams’ odds](https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/teams/nfl/los-angeles-rams/odds) this season.
Landman’s decision to join the Rams was far from random. Growing up in California, the opportunity to return home was a major draw. Another significant factor was his connection with Senior Defensive Assistant Jimmy Lake, with whom he had built a strong relationship the previous year.
The team’s success, the chance to come back to the West Coast, and his familiarity with Lake made the decision easy for him. His knowledge of the Rams’ defensive scheme is also expected to help ease his transition into the team.
Meanwhile, rookie Chris Paul Jr., a fifth-round draft pick, is also looking to make an impact. Regarded as a value selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, he has a promising opportunity to earn playing time if he can deliver a strong showing during training camp.
Tight End: Youth Movement at a Critical Spot
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The tight end position will also spark plenty of intrigue during training camp. Tyler Higbee, long the staple of the Rams’ tight end room, faces increasing pressure. While Higbee has been a key contributor, his age and recent injuries now cast doubt on his role heading into the season.
Colby Parkinson, once seen as a potential breakout player, disappointed last season and now faces an uphill battle to retain a roster spot.
Terrance Ferguson, selected in the second round, is widely regarded as a dynamic pass-catcher with excellent speed on seam routes. Those traits perfectly suit head coach Sean McVay’s offensive system, which heavily incorporates tight end vertical routes.
Despite entering the draft with a third-round projection, Ferguson became the Rams’ top pick after they traded up with the Falcons. His combination of athleticism and route-running makes him a serious candidate to leapfrog Higbee and Parkinson on the depth chart.
Ferguson’s development throughout camp will be crucial to monitor. He’s already drawing attention on [FanDuel’s NFL player watch](https://www.fanduel.com/research/nfl). If he continues his strong offseason performance, he could force a changing of the guard at tight end.
Running Back: Power Meets Speed in the Backfield Battle
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The backfield competition will also attract plenty of attention in camp. Kyren Williams, who emerged as a Pro Bowl-caliber running back, isn’t guaranteed to get a starting job this season. Though he delivered consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns, Williams has battled persistent injuries and has yet to complete a full season.
Jarquez Hunter, the Rams’ rookie selection from Auburn, brings a physical edge to the offense. Known for his rugged running style and ability to break tackles, Hunter adds a different dimension to the backfield.
Lance Zierlein of NFL Network labeled Hunter a “run-after-contact machine,” highlighting his ability to handle heavy workloads. Measuring 5-foot-9 and weighing 204 pounds, Hunter could become a valuable short-yardage and goal-line option.
His selection in April raised eyebrows, as it suggested a long-term contingency plan with Williams entering a contract year. If Williams struggles to stay healthy during camp, Hunter could quickly position himself as a leading rusher.
Backups Blake Corum and Ronnie Rivers remain in the mix, but Hunter’s unique skill set gives him a legitimate shot at overtaking them.
Wide Receiver: Rookie Threatens to Disrupt Veteran Hierarchy
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While wide receiver is considered a position of strength, one late-round rookie creates buzz. The Rams already boast an elite duo in Puka Nacua and newly acquired Davante Adams. However, the third wide receiver spot battle is far from settled.
In his fifth season, Tutu Atwell is firmly on the hot seat. Despite his speed, Atwell has underwhelmed since being drafted in the second round of 2021. His production has been modest, never surpassing 43 catches in a season.
Enter Konata Mumpfield, a seventh-round rookie from Pittsburgh. Mumpfield flashed during OTAs, showing impressive ball-tracking ability and strong hands on contested catches. Despite a disappointing 40-yard dash time that saw his draft stock plummet, Mumpfield has quickly emerged as a dark horse candidate to crack the lineup.
Atwell’s role as a deep threat remains valuable, but if Mumpfield continues to outperform him in camp, the coaching staff may have no choice but to elevate the rookie. His consistently winning jump balls and navigating traffic make him an intriguing fit alongside Nacua and Adams.
High Stakes in the Heat of Camp
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Each position battle holds significant implications for the Rams’ 2025 outlook. Defensively, stability at linebacker is essential for a unit that struggled last season. Offensively, the emergence of younger talent could reinvigorate the team and add new wrinkles to McVay’s playbook.
Rookies like Ferguson, Hunter, and Mumpfield offer potential long-term solutions but must prove their readiness during training camp. Meanwhile, veterans such as Higbee, Williams, and Atwell face mounting pressure to fend off the next wave of talent.
Expect fireworks in Woodland Hills as these competitions heat up. The Rams’ depth chart could look quite different by the end of training camp. That may ultimately shape their fate in the 2025 season.