The Los Angeles Rams want to return to the Super Bowl, just three years removed from winning Super Bowl 56. In that time, they’ve gone through significant roster changes, notably Aaron Donald’s retirement and moving on from Super Bowl MVP Cooper Kupp. Still, the Rams remain a steady playoff threat and head into next season with as good a chance as any NFC team.
But before the season officially gets underway, they have to deal with the preseason slate beginning with a blockbuster matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. After Matthew Stafford was declared week-to-week with a back injury, the starters’ status in Week 1 of the NFL preseason has been in doubt. What is the official verdict?
How Long Will Matthew Stafford and Key Rams Starters Play in Preseason Week 1?
For those following head coach Sean McVay’s game plan since he came into the league, seeing the starters on the field will be a rare sight. Typically against the idea of his stars logging major minutes in preseason, this year is no different for McVay.
Add the injury to a quarterback approaching 40, and his decision becomes even simpler. However, going above and beyond, veteran backup Jimmy Garoppolo will not be starting against the Cowboys.
Instead, Stetson Bennett will get the start, looking to prove he can be a dependable backup all season. Most starters will watch from the sidelines, with McVay giving his rookies plenty of snaps.
However, a few players to watch out for specifically will be Jarquez Hunter, Konata Mumpfield, and Josaiah Stewart. After signing Kyren Williams to an extension, the Rams have their lead back for the future.
But, for a change of pace, Hunter could bring the kind of elusiveness and ability to thread through the defense that would make him a viable explosive play generator. Similarly, the wide receiver rotation is pretty much set.
Davante Adams, Puka Nacua, Tutu Atwell, and sophomore Jordan Whittington will likely get most of the regular season’s reps. However, Mumpfield, who’s been impressive this offseason even as a seventh-round pick, could crack the field with a solid performance against Dallas.
The Rams unofficial depth chart has been released prior to their preseason opener.
No real surprises. Coleman Shelton starting at center. DJ Humphries the backup LT behind Jackson. Speight-Landman at LB.
Rookies start bottom of the depth chart. pic.twitter.com/FTZ7XHS3RK
— Blaine Grisak 💭 (@bgrisakTST) August 6, 2025
Jared Verse and Byron Young are trying to fill Donald’s shoes. With the defensive line suffering a major loss, Stewart could potentially establish himself as the third candidate for the edge rusher spot, finally solidifying the defense.
Even without the starters, the Rams’ fans have much to look forward to as McVay and the coaching staff try to accurately gauge the rookies coming in this year.
