LOS ANGELES — In preparation for the playoffs, most of the Los Angeles Rams’ primary offensive players, including quarterback Matthew Stafford, will not participate in the team’s final regular-season game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Head Coach Sean McVay announced on Friday that several key players—including receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, running back Kyren Williams, and offensive linemen Alaric Jackson, Kevin Dotson, and Rob Havenstein—will be resting for Sunday’s matchup. After securing the NFC West title the previous week, the Rams (10-6) are prioritizing player health.
“This is a great opportunity for us to evaluate some players who have performed well,” mentioned McVay. “We will see additional offensive linemen in action, and we’re eager to watch how those receivers perform with Jimmy. Rookie running back Blake Corum should get a solid number of carries, and I look forward to seeing what third-stringer Cody Schrader can do.”
On the defensive front, McVay mentioned that he would manage the playtime of several players, ensuring they remain active during the game to maintain a full roster without overextending anyone. “We’ll have a few players get some playing time,” McVay explained. “Due to the youth on the defensive side, we will provide opportunities for various players, although they might not see the typical amount of work.”
Matthew Stafford has already been ruled out for the game, marking a significant moment as he has participated in every play for the Rams this season. In his absence, Jimmy Garoppolo is expected to make his debut with the team, while Stetson Bennett will serve as his backup.
Nacua, who has had an impressive rookie season, concludes the year just 10 yards short of his second 1,000-yard season. The former fifth-round selection has tallied 79 receptions for 990 yards and four touchdowns, all while enduring a knee injury that sidelined him for five games earlier in the season.
Kupp wraps up his season with 67 catches for 710 yards and six touchdowns, while Williams finishes with 1,299 rushing yards, 182 receiving yards, and a total of 16 touchdowns.
Stafford, in his 16th season in the NFL, recorded 3,762 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes, both of which are career lows for a season with at least 15 starts. However, he managed to throw just eight interceptions in a complete season, marking a personal best, while he also faced 28 sacks, which is the second-lowest in his career.
In the offensive line, Joe Noteboom will step in for Jackson at left tackle while Jonah Jackson takes Dotson’s place at right guard. Jonah Jackson, who signed a significant contract with the Rams last March, has battled injuries this season and was unable to reclaim his starting center position from rookie Beaux Limmer.
