In addition to their active roster, which has 53 players on it, the Los Angeles Rams can also carry up to 16 players on the practice squad, plus one additional international player. That gives them up to 70 players to evaluate each and every week before deciding which 48 will be active on game days.
The practice squad has become increasingly important since the NFL tweaked the rules to not only expand it to 16 players, but also make vested veterans eligible for the practice squad. Plus, up to two players each week can be elevated to the game-day roster, so they have a chance to contribute during the season beyond just practicing.
Now that the initial rosters are set, teams can begin assembling their practice squads. The Rams will aim to bring back many of the players they cut this week, retaining them on the practice squad for the time being.
We’re tracking all of the Rams’ practice squad signings below as they’re reported.
- C Mike McAllister (source): The Rams waived McAllister this week but he’ll provide depth at center behind Steve Avila and Beaux Limmer
- WR Drake Stoops (source): Stoops was signed as an undrafted rookie this year after playing college football at Oklahoma
- WR Xavier Smith (source): Smith was one of the Rams’ best players this preseason, both on offense and special teams.