Rams to rest Puka Nacua, Cooper Kupp, Kyren Williams, other offensive starters vs. Seahawks

Key Takeaways:

• The Rams are resting key offensive starters, including Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, and Puka Nacua.
• Having clinched the NFC West, the team prioritizes player health over improving playoff seeding.
• Backup players like Jonah Jackson and Blake Corum will see increased roles in Week 18.
• Head coach Sean McVay focuses on strategic rest to prepare for a strong postseason run.
• The decision allows the team to manage injuries and minimize risks before the playoffs.

Rams Resting Starters Ahead of Playoffs

The Los Angeles Rams’ offense will take on a new look in Week 18 as the team prepares to face the Seattle Seahawks. With the NFC West title already in hand, head coach Sean McVay announced that several key offensive starters will sit out the regular-season finale to rest and heal before the playoffs.

NFC West Title Secured

At 10-6, the Rams have clinched their division, affording them the luxury to prioritize health over the potential benefits of playing for a higher playoff seed. The upcoming game against the 9-7 Seahawks offers little in terms of changing their postseason positioning.

Key Players Sitting Out

Among those resting are quarterback Matthew Stafford, wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, running back Kyren Williams, and offensive linemen Kevin Dotson and Alaric Jackson. McVay also ruled out right tackle Rob Havenstein due to a shoulder injury.

“Have had some situations that we’ve navigated through, especially on the offensive line, guys are banged up but they’d be able to go if this were a normal game,” McVay explained. “So we’re going to err on the side of caution with those guys.”

Impact on Offensive Line

Veteran Joe Noteboom will step in at left tackle for Jackson, while Jonah Jackson is set to fill Dotson’s role at right guard. Second-year tackle Warren McClendon is expected to take over on the right side.

Jonah Jackson’s Season Journey

Jonah Jackson’s season has been a challenging one. Signed on the first day of free agency back in March with a three-year contract, Jackson was initially slated to play left guard as part of the Rams’ revamped offensive line strategy. However, a shoulder injury during the first week of training camp sidelined him. Upon his return in late August, he shifted to center—his natural position—as plans changed.

After re-aggravating his shoulder injury in Week 2, Jackson spent seven games on injured reserve. Though he returned to start in Week 10, the offensive line struggled, and he was eventually replaced by rookie Beaux Limmer.

Despite these setbacks, McVay praised Jackson’s attitude and work ethic. “All he was willing to do was whatever was asked of him,” McVay said. “If you saw the way that he’s worked, my respect level for how he’s handled a unique situation that I really don’t think is anybody but… it’s really my fault for not having him in a better spot to be able to contribute. But I just couldn’t be more impressed.”

Opportunity for Running Backs

Rookie running back Blake Corum, a third-round pick who has been serving as Kyren Williams’ backup, is expected to take on a leading role with Williams resting. McVay hinted that fellow rookie Cody Schrader might also see action.

Offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur is eager to see how Corum handles increased responsibility. “More touches for a back is usually better,” LaFleur noted. “It’ll just be good if he does get those opportunities to see him work through a drive or two drives in a row and see what he can do.”

McVay’s Perspective on Rest and Health

This isn’t the first time McVay has opted to rest his starters with the playoffs looming. The coach remains steadfast in his belief that the team’s long-term success hinges on the health of his players.

“We’re going to err on the side of caution,” McVay reiterated. “I just couldn’t be more impressed with how our guys have handled this, and we’re excited about the opportunity to get some other guys in there.”

Preparing for a Strong Playoff Run

As the Rams conclude their regular season, the focus is clear: prioritize player well-being to ensure the team is at full strength for the postseason. The upcoming game against the Seahawks will not only serve as a rest period for star players but also as a proving ground for backups eager to contribute.