When the Los Angeles Rams took a step back after their Super Bowl victory, many around the NFL believed they would struggle to return to contention. Some executives, including Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane, even pointed to the Rams as a model they did not want to follow, hoping to avoid the type of “collapse” they experienced in 2022.
Instead, that 2022 season has proven to be little more than a temporary setback. Since then, the Rams have remained highly competitive and positioned themselves as a legitimate candidate to become the NFL’s next dynasty. That’s the same conversation reserved for franchises like the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, and Pittsburgh Steelers. Not only can the Rams win now, but they have also built a foundation capable of sustaining success for years.
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The transformation began when Los Angeles acquired Matthew Stafford from the Detroit Lions. Stafford has more than justified the investment. Despite limited draft capital, the Rams continued to draft well, make smart trades, and rely on a head coach in Sean McVay who consistently adapts to the league’s evolving trends. After coming within striking distance of another Super Bowl appearance in 2025, the Rams doubled down on their championship aspirations.
At the same time, the organization remained focused on both the present and the future. The Rams strengthened their secondary by trading for All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie, a move that also provided additional draft flexibility. They then used the 13th overall pick—acquired through a 2025 draft-day trade with the Atlanta Falcons—to select Stafford’s eventual successor. The decision sparked debate at the time, but it now appears increasingly wise.
With their quarterback of the future in place, the Rams seemed ready to turn their attention toward training camp. Yet they had one more blockbuster move left. While the defense improved significantly with the addition of McDuffie, McVay wanted even more firepower. Los Angeles answered by acquiring Myles Garrett.
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Garrett gives the Rams one of the NFL’s premier defensive players and pairs him with their top pass rusher, Byron Young. While Jared Verse developed into a quality player, Young has emerged as the more productive and impactful edge defender. Now, he gets to line up alongside a future Hall of Famer.
In the span of a single offseason, the Rams transformed from contenders into the clear Super Bowl favorites. At a minimum, they have assembled a roster capable of making a championship run over the next two seasons. Beyond that, they have a succession plan at quarterback and one of the league’s brightest offensive minds preparing the next era.
The Rams operate with vision, conviction, and a willingness to make bold decisions that other franchises avoid. What many viewed as a collapse in 2022 has instead become the launching point for sustained contention.
And this may not be the final move. A certain future Hall of Famer still remains a potential un-retirement candidate…
