As the Los Angeles Rams gear up for another season, the Rams training camp is set to be a hotbed of competition. Both coaches and fans will be closely watching a number of key positional battles that could define the team’s success in the 2023 season. Here are some of the most intriguing face-offs to keep an eye on:
Rams Training Camp Battles
Backup Quarterback: Stetson Bennett vs. Brett Rypien
While Matthew Stafford retains his position as the Rams’ starting quarterback, the backup position will see an exciting battle between Brett Rypien and Stetson Bennett. Both quarterbacks will be looking to impress the coaching staff and secure their role as Stafford’s understudy. Rypien was recently signed to a 1-year deal to compete with the recently drafted Bennett so it’ll be interesting to see who gets the QB2 title. The Rams have carried 3 QBs on the roster the last few years, so don’t be surprised if that happens again.
Cornerback: Decobie Durant vs. Robert Rochell vs. Tre’vius Hodges-Tomlinson
With the departure of Jalen Ramsey, the Rams cornerback position is up for grabs. Cobie Durant, who is stepping in as the main cornerback, will face competition from Robert Rochell and, rookie, Tre’vius Hodges-Tomlinson. This three-way battle promises to be one of the highlights of the Rams training camp. Durant may have the edge, but the secondary is full of young talent.
Wide Receiver: Puka Nacua vs. Lance McCutcheon
The Rams wide receiver unit will see a competition between Puka Nacua and Lance McCutcheon. McCutcheon was the preseason darling last year, but hardly saw any playing time, while Nacua should challenge him for the WR5 spot behind Cooper Kupp, Van Jefferson, Ben Skowronek, and Tutu Atwell. The Rams run some of the highest percentages of 11 personnel in the league under McVay so receiver talent is something that is always needed. Both players will be eager to prove their worth and secure more playing time in the upcoming season. Their performance in the training camp will be crucial to their chances.
Defensive Line: Byron Young vs. Daniel Hardy
The defensive line, a critical unit for the Rams, will see a competition between, rookie, Byron Young and, second year, Daniel Hardy. Hardy had an injury-riddled rookie season so he didn’t get a chance to prove his talent last year. Young should join him along the defensive line. With Leonard Floyd gone, there’s some competition on the defensive line among these young players. Both players will be looking to impress the coaching staff and earn a spot in the starting lineup.
Running Back: Kyren Williams vs. Zach Evans
The running back position will see fierce competition between Kyren Williams and Zach Evans at Rams training camp. Both have shown potential and will be looking to stake their claim for the starting role. Williams is the more versatile back, while Evans plays very similarly to Darrell Henderson. The battle between Williams and Evans is set to be one of the most closely watched contests in the Rams training camp.
Offensive Line: Logan Bruss vs. Steve Avila
The offensive line, vital for protecting Stafford and opening up lanes for the running game, will see competition between Logan Bruss and “Steve” Esteban Avila. The unit last season saw many injuries and suffered as such, and after some departures, there are some starting spots open. Both will be vying for a starting role, and their performances at training camp will be crucial in determining who gets the nod.
As the Rams prepare for their 2023 campaign, the outcome of these positional battles will play a significant role in shaping the team’s roster and strategy. Fans should keep a close eye on these competitions, as they could hold the key to the Rams’ fortunes in the upcoming season.