By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
The Los Angeles Rams are wrapping up their 2026 training camp this week at Loyola Marymount University before transitioning to their permanent practice facility in Woodland Hills. From there, the team will turn its attention to its first preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Aug. 15.
Fine-Tuning for the Season
Under head coach Sean McVay, the Rams have emphasized joint practices and competitive “ones versus ones” repetitions as they continue refining their offensive and defensive schemes. The coaching staff has also carefully managed the workloads of veteran players, including quarterback Matthew Stafford and linebacker Byron Young.
Quarterback Stetson Bennett IV has received significant work with the second-team offense and has connected on several highlight-reel plays with wide receiver Mario Williams. Veteran wide receiver Davante Adams has continued to show the dependable hands and consistency that made him one of the NFL’s premier receivers.
Revamped Defense Making an Impact
The Rams’ revamped defense has been one of the biggest storylines of camp, with intense “iron sharpens iron” matchups against the starting offense.
Among the new additions, cornerback Trent McDuffie has challenged the Rams’ talented receiving corps, including standout wide receiver Puka Nacua. Defensive end Myles Garrett has also made an immediate impression, although the team has managed his workload with scheduled rest days.
Garrett missed a couple of practices because of leg soreness, but the newcomer has quickly earned the respect of his teammates and coaches.
“The defender’s arrival definitely lived up to the excitement,” defensive coordinator Chris Shula said.
Veteran safety Quintin Lake praised Garrett’s professionalism and commitment to preparation.
“His presence or aura in general—he’s a workhorse, taking down notes in the meeting room,” Lake said. “But even more so than that, what he does to take care of his body. Your body is your resume, and your best ability is availability. The attention to detail that he takes to take care of his body really stands out.”
According to Yahoo Sports, Garrett may not match his 23-sack total this season, but his role within the Rams’ defensive scheme could create more opportunities for the rest of the defensive front. Regardless of the statistics, Garrett is now part of one of the NFL’s most talented rosters and a defensive unit built to capitalize on his disruptive presence.
With training camp coming to a close, the Rams will soon shift from preparation to competition as they begin the preseason with high expectations for the 2026 campaign.