The Los Angeles Rams offense rediscovered itself during the 2023 season after head coach Sean McVay and offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur revamped the system to include more physical, downhill run plays.
Kyren Williams had a career-year as the team’s full-time running back, ending the season as the NFL’s second-leading rusher despite missing multiple games. However, the offense really clicked because of Matthew Stafford who looked healthy after suffering a spinal contusion the year prior.
At his best, Stafford is one of the best pure passers in the league as he can make any throw on the field in any situation. He’s also got an excellent knack for getting the best out of his receivers as Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua have both had outstanding seasons with Stafford under center.
Aside from the wide receiver room, the tight end room stands to benefit with Stafford throwing the football. Ahead of the 2024 season, Stafford had high praise for Los Angeles’ tight ends, calling the group the most talented and deepest unit he’s had since entering the NFL, via the Rams’ official YouTube:
“I think it’s as talented and as deep a room as I’ve been a part of since I’ve probably been in the league,” Stafford said. “And when you get Higs back healthy, it’s going to be a big strength for our team. I’m excited about these guys, they’re working their asses off and it’s going to be good for us.”
The Rams are currently missing Tyler Higbee, who is recovering from a brutal knee injury he suffered in the Wild Card game against the Detroit Lions, but the team still has Colby Parkinson and Davis Allen to fill the void. Parkinson was a surprise free agent signing from the Seattle Seahawks as he was mainly used as a blocker, though he showed flashes of being able to handle more targets in the passing game. Meanwhile, Allen became a reliable target for Stafford and has looked good so far in training camp.
While Parkinson and Allen might not be household names, they’re solid players who can do whatever’s asked of them on the field. Stafford’s shown he can fit the football wherever it needs to go, so Parkinson and Allen will need to be ready when their numbers are called.
Rams’ Matthew Stafford ranked No. 42 on NFL Top 100 for 2024 season
Matthew Stafford had a bounce back year for the Rams in 2023 and it was reflected in the NFL Top 100 list as he was ranked No. 42.
