The Los Angeles Rams are kicking off the 2026 season with an absolutely wild move, naming a record 11 team captains. This isn’t just a slight bump, folks, it blows past their previous high of nine captains from 2020 and crushes the seven they had last year in 2025.
An Unprecedented Leadership Huddle
You read that right: *eleven* captains! This isn’t just the most in Sean McVay’s tenure; it’s a huge statement about how this team is approaching 2026. The players voted on this after the initial 53-man roster was set, so you know this leadership isn’t just handed out; it’s earned directly from the locker room. What’s even cooler is the incredible balance here: five guys on offense, five on defense, and then Joe Cardona holding it down for special teams. This crew includes six returning Rams captains and three newcomers to Los Angeles, making for a truly dynamic mix. McVay himself said this group has as much leadership as he’s ever seen during his time with the Rams, and when you look at that list, you gotta agree, it backs up his assessment.
Stafford’s Unstoppable Streak and Key New Faces
When you talk Rams captains, you *have* to start with Matthew Stafford. Dude is a captaincy lock, plain and simple. This is his sixth straight year rocking the “C” for the Rams since he landed in Los Angeles back in 2021. But get this: he’s been an NFL captain in *every single season* except his rookie year in 2009. That’s 17 captaincies heading into his 18th NFL season! Absolutely insane. Then you’ve got Kyren Williams, returning for his second straight year, showing he’s a consistent contributor and a key offensive leader. And let’s not forget Davante Adams! This is his first time being a captain *as a Ram*, though he’s rocked the “C” four times before with the Packers and Raiders. His experience and elite receiver status make him a no-brainer for this beefed-up leadership group. Tyler Higbee is also back in the captain crew, making it his second time as a Ram captain, proving his long tenure pays off. And a huge shoutout to Coleman Shelton, a first-timer for both the Rams and his entire NFL career. That’s a massive show of respect for the veteran center. Kobie Turner rounds it out with his third straight captaincy, solidifying his spot as a defensive leader.
So, what does this massive captain announcement really mean? It tells you the Rams are prioritizing veteran presence and locker room voice above all else this season. They’re clearly banking on this deep well of leadership to guide them. It’s going to be wild to see how all these “C” patches translate on the field when the season gets into full swing.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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