{
  "id": 1165569,
  "title": "5 standouts from Rams' preseason opener",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/16/5-standouts-from-rams-preseason-opener",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-16T01:11:07.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/5-standouts-rams-preseason-opener-011107428.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Los Angeles Rams began their preseason on a high note with a win against the Kansas City Chiefs, thanks largely to their backups and reserves. Despite the overall solid performance, several players stood out with exceptional play. Rookie quarterback Ty Simpson had the best stat line among any rookie quarterback in the preseason so far. He completed 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns. Simpson's accuracy and timely throws were on full display. TE Max Klare was a key player in the passing game, catching seven of eight targets for 37 yards. He showed reliable hands and solid blocking in the run game. WR/PR Xavier Smith played a significant role, taking advantage of the extra opportunities given to him. He caught all four of his targets for 26 yards and returned three punts for a total of 52 yards. RB Dean Connors, despite being an undrafted rookie, made an impact with 22 yards rushing and 29 yards receiving. He caught two touchdown passes from Simpson in the fourth quarter and broke tackles with hard running. S Nick Andersen played a crucial role in the defense, allowing the Rams to keep the Chiefs out of the end zone. Andersen's two pass breakups and a TFL were game-changers. These five players were the standout performers in the Rams' preseason opener against the Chiefs.",
  "summary": "A handful of players stood out in the Rams' win over the Chiefs, including undrafted rookie Dean Connors.",
  "key_points": [
    "Rookie QB Ty Simpson had best stat line among preseason rookies",
    "TE Max Klare caught 7 of 8 targets for 37 yards",
    "WR/PR Xavier Smith returned 3 punts for 52 yards"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The strong performances by these five players, particularly rookie quarterback Ty Simpson and undrafted rookie Dean Connors, signal a deep and promising roster for the Rams.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}