ESPN Ranks Rams 5th in Future Power Rankings

November 9, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay talks with quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) during the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

ESPN Ranks Rams 5th in Future Power Rankings

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Parrish Jr. | Last updated Aug 17, 2026 1:34 PM ET

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The Los Angeles Rams enter 2026 with a roster well-equipped for a Super Bowl run.

The offense, powered by reigning MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford, remains sharp heading into the regular season, one year after leading the league in total yards and points. An already good defense is vastly improved behind offseason additions in All-Pro edge Myles Garrett and cornerback Trent McDuffie.

The Rams have operated aggressively in their win-now window, but what about the future? The Rams ranked fifth in ESPN's Future Power Rankings, based on the quarterback situation, overall roster, front office and coaching staff. Only the Seattle Seahawks, Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions and Denver Broncos ranked higher.

The Rams received an 85.3 overall score, in the "very good" range; a 73.75 score for quarterback, 24th in the NFL; a 95 score for coaching, best in the league; and an 83.25 score for front office.

Reason for hope moving forward

"The Rams are tricky to rank because we don't know for certain whether coach Sean McVay, who has contemplated retirement, will stay in Los Angeles after quarterback Matthew Stafford hangs up the pads," ESPN's Ben Solak wrote, calling it the Rams' reason for hope moving forward.

Reason for concern looking at the future

Jul 29, 2026; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) throws a pass as quarterback Ty Simpson (15) watches during training camp at Loyola Marymount University. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

"Different season, same concern. (Matthew) Stafford now has an MVP award after what was in many ways the best statistical season of his career. But he is still year-to-year as far as the future goes," ESPN's Louis Riddick wrote, calling it the Rams' reason for concern. "And though I am a big believer in the Rams' succession plan with Ty Simpson, the transition will not be easy."

The Rams drafted Simpson with the No. 13 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The rookie impressed in the preseason opener Saturday against the Kansas City Chiefs, completing 84% of his passes (21-of-25) for 190 yards and two touchdowns despite a mixed training camp. Simpson will need to be ready whenever the 38-year-old Stafford decides to walk away from the game.

The projection through next three seasons

Aug 11, 2026; Woodland Hills, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Tyler Scott (82), defensive end Myles Garrett (center) and defensive end Daniel Rickert (40) watch during a joint practice against the Dallas Cowboys at the Rams Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

ESPN's Seth Walder made his prediction for the Rams through the 2029 season.

"The Rams will lead the NFL in light offensive personnel in 2028. After shepherding the league into heavy usage of multiple tight ends, McVay will pivot again once the rest of the NFL -- and its defenses -- has caught up. By 2028, he'll presumably have a new quarterback and will need new advantages for him. One can only guess at what that will be, as McVay seems to find value in zigging when the rest of the league zags."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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