Breaking down the snap counts from the Rams’ win over the Chargers
There’s just over one week left until the Los Angeles Rams have to cut their roster down to 53 players, leaving limited time to continue evaluating those fighting for a roster spot. Sean McVay and the coaching staff handle each player differently in terms of playing time, typically holding their starters out and giving key players minimal playing time before the regular season.
That’s why the snap counts from each preseason game can give us a hint as to where everyone stands on the depth chart and the roster bubble.
Here’s a breakdown of how much every player was on the field against the Chargers on Saturday.
Rams snap counts: Offense
Stetson Bennett played the entire game from start to finish, with his last snap being his game-winning touchdown pass. It’s rare for a quarterback to play every snap in the preseason but Bennett typically does.
At running back, Blake Corum started the game and played just nine snaps, a lighter workload than he had last week. Jarquez Hunter played 30 snaps in relief, with Cody Schrader finishing off the game with 38 snaps.
Seven different receivers played in this one, but it’s notable that Xavier Smith and Konata Mumpfield played the least. They should be roster locks. Tru Edwards led the receiving corps with 45 snaps played, catching the game-winning touchdown pass.
The Rams only played three tight ends, with Mark Redman playing 45 snaps to lead that group. Davis Allen played 26 snaps as he tries to solidify his roster spot.
There were essentially two offensive line groups in this one, made up of 10 total players. Warren McClendon Jr. and David Quessenberry are the ones to watch at tackle, playing 26 snaps each. Willie Lampkin was limited to 17 snaps before getting hurt.
Rams snap counts: Defense
The defensive line once again featured a fairly deep rotation, led by four players who played significant snaps: Jack Heflin, Desjuan Johnson, Ty Hamilton and Latrell Murchison. They could be competing for one or two roster spots.
Shaun Dolac played most of the game as the defensive signal caller, a role Chris Paul Jr. held last week. Paul was limited to 28 snaps, in part due to an injury during the game that he eventually returned from.
The Rams gave Brennan Jackson a long look with a team-high 43 snaps, which may not necessarily be a good sign. He did play well, though. Keir Thomas’ playing time was limited to 17 snaps as he tries to make the team for Week 1. Nick Hampton played 28 snaps.
Cam Lampkin, Charles Woods and Shaun Jolly got the most playing time at cornerback, with Josh Wallace notably only playing 15 snaps. He could have an inside track to one of the last roster spots.
At safety, Tanner Ingle, Nate Valcarcel and Malik Dixon-Williams were the only players to play, though Wallace does also line up at safety.