Sean McVay’s Absence Reveals the Rams’ Coaching Staff Depth

The on-field results spoke loudly. The Rams piled up 530 total yards, delivering a balanced and efficient offensive showing that included a rare breakout rushing performance. Rookie Blake Corum posted 128 yards and two touchdowns, giving Los Angeles its first 100-yard rusher of the season and adding a physical dimension that had often been missing.

McVay was quick to credit LaFleur for keeping the operation steady in his absence. While McVay retains final say on play-calling during games, LaFleur’s influence throughout the week proved vital. The preparation, structure, and rhythm established in practice were carried directly into Sunday’s domination.

Get LAFB’s World Famous ‘Ring Me’ Aaron Donald T-Shirt

LaFleur’s Second Act in Los Angeles

For LaFleur, moments like this reinforce how far he has come since his turbulent exit from the New York Jets. His final years there were marked by stalled drives and mounting criticism, leaving his career at a crossroads. Los Angeles offered a reset—both familiarity and opportunity. His brother Matt once worked under McVay, and the Rams’ environment allowed LaFleur to rediscover his footing within one of the league’s most innovative staffs.

Since arriving in 2023, the Rams have quietly stacked success. They’ve produced consecutive 10-win seasons, reached the playoffs each year, and again find themselves in a strong postseason position in 2025. Even without Sunday play-calling duties, LaFleur has been central to an offense that ranks among the league’s best in scoring and total yardage.

Ambition, With the Focus on Now

Two days before the win over Arizona, LaFleur openly acknowledged he still wants to call plays again someday.

“Absolutely. It’s a fun job,” LaFleur told local media. “Truly being in it with the guys for that three-and-a-half-hour window because everything in this league matters… That’s why it’s so fun.”

He quickly added, however, “that’s not where any of my focus is right now.”

That focus is squarely on the present. At 10–3 with four games remaining, the Rams are chasing the NFC’s top seed and another division title. Internally, LaFleur’s role continues to expand beyond X’s and O’s. His work with young players like wide receiver Xavier Smith has paid dividends, with Smith emerging for a career-best 82 yards after repeated reassurance from LaFleur: “You belong.”

McVay’s Endorsement and What Comes Next

McVay has never been shy about praising his assistant, but his recent comments stood out.

“Oh, heck yeah,” McVay said when asked if LaFleur could call plays or lead a team. “Mike could call plays here… He can go as far as he wants.”

Those words will only amplify interest as the league approaches another offseason of coaching turnover. For now, though, LaFleur remains fully invested in this moment—guiding a confident offense, supporting a recovering head coach, and helping the Rams chase something bigger. His second act hasn’t just restored his reputation; it’s strengthened one of the NFC’s most dangerous teams.