3 long-term takeaways from Rams’ joint practice with Saints

The Los Angeles Rams participated in a joint practice with the New Orleans Saints on Thursday, shedding light on several key aspects of their future performance. First, the team may potentially reduce the number of offensive linemen they keep on their initial 53-man roster. Currently, the roster includes Alaric Jackson, Steve Avila, Coleman Shelton, Kevin Dotson, Rob Havenstein (who retired), Warren McClendon, Justin Dedich, Beaux Limmer, D.J.

Humphries (who wasn't re-signed), and David Quessenberry. With only Keagen Trost drafted, the team might not need additional linemen unless special teams requirements arise. However, Trost's development and the potential need for reserves on the practice squad suggest strategic flexibility.

Secondly, the offense without starting quarterback Puka Nacua still necessitates improvement. While the Rams showcased a solid performance, there were areas that required further development, such as handling third-and-short situations, enhancing the rushing attack, and reducing overly reliant plays on Stafford. Although this was the offense's basic form, Stafford's reliance on certain situations could lead to poor execution and poor decision-making.

Nacua's unique skillset cannot be substituted, and his continued presence is paramount to the team's offense.

Finally, the Rams will likely need to redesign their offense to accommodate rookie quarterback Simpson Ty Simpson, who participated in the joint practice. While Simpson possesses good fundamentals and accuracy on short-to-medium throws, his struggles to push the ball downfield and the differences in his throwing motion compared to Stafford suggests a need for strategic adjustments.

The team has the potential to develop a multi-tight-end offense that could offer a more traditional and flexible style of play. This redesign could provide a competitive edge against contemporary NFL trends, leveraging Sean McVay's expertise.