Davante Adams and the Los Angeles Rams are gearing up for another season, with Adams' health and contract status under scrutiny. On July 6, ESPN's Mike Clay called Matthew Stafford the team's biggest strength, ahead of their retooled defensive line and secondary.
What's at Stake for Davante Adams?
The Rams need Stafford and Adams to stay healthy and perform well if they want to achieve their goals. Adams is 33 years old and has an expiring contract, making this season potentially his last chance to capitalize on the Rams' stacked roster.
The Rams' Super Bowl chances hinge on Stafford's health and continued strong play, according to Clay. Stafford is entering his 18th NFL season and dealt with a back injury during the 2025 offseason.
Can the Rams Keep Stafford Upright?
Stafford dominated in 2025, pacing the NFL in both passing yards and passing TDs, but there's no guarantee he can repeat that in 2026 at age 38. The Rams will do everything they can to keep Stafford on the field, with ESPN's Seth Walder listing the duo's health as the Rams' "X factor" for this coming season.
Adams is part of the setup that makes the Rams the best team in football, but the depth behind him and Puka Nacua is severely lacking. The Rams are top-heavy at key positions, and the question remains how long Stafford can keep playing at such a high level.
What Comes Next for the Rams?
The Athletic's Nate Atkins noted that the Rams will do everything they can to keep Stafford on the field for 2026. Atkins expects the Rams to manage Stafford's workload to reflect his understanding of the importance of keeping hits off his ailing back.
Adams is 0-5 in his career in Conference Championship Games and will turn 34 years old in December. This could be Adams' last crack at reaching the Super Bowl as a top option on a team, making this season a critical one for him and the Rams.
The Rams doubled down on Adams by passing on a trade for A.J. Brown, due to his lethal play in the red zone and his ability to coach up younger receivers. For all of the talent on the Rams' roster, they need Stafford and Adams to perform well if they want to achieve their goals.