Sean McVay Confirms Play-Calling Role, Outlines Rams’ Offseason Strategy
WOODLAND HILLS, Calif. – Following the conclusion of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay provided updates on the team’s finalized coaching staff and upcoming free agency plans during a press conference on Tuesday, March 3rd. Free agency negotiations will begin at 9 a.m. Pacific Time on Monday, March 9th, with the new league year commencing at 1 p.m. Pacific Time on Wednesday, March 11th.
McVay to Remain as Play Caller
Despite changes to the offensive coaching structure, Sean McVay confirmed he intends to continue calling plays for the Rams in the 2026 season. The Rams recently hired former Commanders offensive coordinator and Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury as assistant head coach, promoted Nate Scheelhaase to offensive coordinator, and assigned associate coordinator duties to quarterbacks coach Dave Ragone. However, McVay stated, “I’ve always loved calling plays…that is the plan, to continue to do that, until you guys (media) say I should pass it off to someone else.”
Addressing Aubrey Pleasant’s Departure
McVay addressed the departure of Aubrey Pleasant, who had worked with him for seven of the last nine seasons as assistant head coach/pass game coordinator/defensive backs coach. McVay characterized the decision as being in the best interest of both parties, stating, “We had a bunch of conversations…he made tremendous contributions to us, but just felt like it was going to be in the best interest of both parties to be able to move on.”
Defensive Staff Changes
Jimmy Lake, previously a senior defensive assistant, has been promoted to pass game coordinator/defensive backs coach, and Michael Hunter joins the staff as an assistant defensive backs coach. McVay praised Lake’s experience, noting, “He’s a guy that’s been a head coach, been a coordinator…his capacity for the game and big picture perspective…is going to provide tremendous value.”
Pending Free Agents
McVay acknowledged the Rams face several key decisions regarding pending unrestricted free agents, including safety Kam Curl and cornerbacks Cobie Durant, Ahkello Witherspoon, and Roger McCreary. He emphasized the need to address the secondary, stating, “There’s a lot of layers to that…those are things that are going to be important for us to be able to address, whether that’s re-signing our own or being able to find the different avenues.”
Interest in Jimmy Garoppolo’s Return
The Rams would “love” to have backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo return, but understand he may pursue opportunities where he can play. McVay acknowledged reports of interest from the Arizona Cardinals, now led by former Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, saying, “Absolutely, I love Jimmy…we would love him back.” He added that Garoppolo will likely have multiple options and would support him pursuing a starting role elsewhere.
Evaluating Quarterbacks
McVay discussed the qualities the Rams glance for when evaluating quarterbacks, emphasizing character, performance under pressure, and the ability to execute the offense. He highlighted the importance of observing how quarterbacks perform in critical situations, such as two-minute drills, third downs, and red zone opportunities.
New Coaches Allen and Woods
McVay clarified that the hiring of former players Brian Allen and Robert Woods as assistant offensive line coach and assistant wide receivers coach, respectively, were based on their coaching potential, not as favors. “I love those guys. We’re not doing favors,” McVay said. “It’s because I believe that they’re going to be really good coaches too.”
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