The unprecedented leadership group features a balanced mix of offensive, defensive, and special teams stalwarts, blending seasoned veterans with impactful newcomers.
The Los Angeles Rams are setting a new standard for leadership as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. Following the finalization of their initial 53-man roster, the team officially revealed that players voted to designate 11 team captains, a historic number for the franchise under Head Coach Sean McVay.
This marks the largest group of captains since McVay took the helm in 2017, significantly surpassing the nine captains named in 2020 and the seven from the 2025 season. The diverse selection showcases a balanced approach, with five leaders representing the offense, five from the defense, and one dedicated to special teams duties, according to reporting by Yahoo Sports - NFL.
McVay emphasized that this collection of players collectively represents “as much leadership as the Rams have had during his tenure,” an assessment strongly supported by the individuals chosen. With Super Bowl LXI scheduled to take place at their home venue, SoFi Stadium, the Rams are clearly signaling enormous expectations for the upcoming 2026 campaign.
Matthew Stafford Leads Returning Los Angeles Rams Captains
Perhaps no player embodies consistent leadership more than quarterback Matthew Stafford, who extends his remarkable streak to a sixth consecutive season as a Rams captain since joining the team in 2021. His NFL career captaincy is even more extensive, marking his 17th year wearing the 'C' in his 18th professional season, having been a captain every year except his rookie debut in 2009.
Several other key figures are also returning to the leadership group. Running back Kyren Williams earns his second straight Rams captaincy, solidifying his role as a crucial offensive leader and consistent on-field contributor. Defensive tackle Kobie Turner and safety Quentin Lake both continue their ascent, each securing their third consecutive captaincy for the Rams, tying for the most among non-Stafford players.
Additionally, tight end Tyler Higbee, one of the longest-tenured Rams from the McVay era, returns to the captain ranks after previously being selected in 2023. Linebacker Nate Landman also retains his captaincy for a second consecutive year, having first earned the honor upon his arrival in Los Angeles in 2025.
New Faces Bring Veteran NFL Leadership to Rams
The Rams' 2026 captain contingent is bolstered by the immediate impact of several accomplished newcomers who bring significant leadership experience from previous teams. Star wide receiver Davante Adams, in his first season with the Rams, was voted a captain, adding to his four previous career captaincies earned with the Green Bay Packers and Las Vegas Raiders.
Defensive end Myles Garrett also wasted no time earning the trust of his new teammates, securing a captaincy in his inaugural season in Los Angeles. This marks Garrett's third career captaincy, having previously served in the role for the Cleveland Browns in 2024 and 2025. His selection is hardly a surprise given his status as one of the NFL's premier defensive players.
Rounding out the experienced new additions is long snapper Joe Cardona, who takes over as the special teams captain. Cardona previously held a captaincy with the New England Patriots in 2024, making this his first for the Rams and second in his NFL career. He steps into the special teams leadership role previously held by Ethan Evans in 2025.
First-Time Rams Captains Emerge for 2026 Season
The leadership group also recognizes emerging talent and the respect earned by players receiving their first-ever captaincy honors. Center Coleman Shelton is named a captain for both the first time as a Ram and in his entire NFL career. His selection signifies his growing importance to the offensive line and the high regard he holds among his teammates.
Cornerback Trent McDuffie, another new arrival to Los Angeles after starting his career with the Kansas City Chiefs, quickly established himself as a defensive leader. His inclusion marks his first captaincy at the NFL level, demonstrating how rapidly he's gained the trust and admiration of the Rams' locker room.
Rams' Deep Leadership Signals Championship Ambitions
The decision to name a record 11 captains underscores the Los Angeles Rams' commitment to a deep and diverse leadership structure heading into a pivotal 2026 season. This group effectively blends the continuity of established Rams figures with the immediate influence of several impactful new additions, creating a robust framework for guiding the team.
Coach McVay’s affirmation of this group's leadership depth, combined with the presence of Super Bowl LXI at their home stadium, indicates the franchise’s immense aspirations. While Aaron Donald also returned to the team on Sunday, the announced captains highlight a collective leadership approach designed to spearhead their championship pursuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many captains did the Rams name for the 2026 NFL season?
The Los Angeles Rams announced 11 team captains for the 2026 NFL season, which is the largest group under Head Coach Sean McVay since he joined the team in 2017.
Who are the new captains for the Los Angeles Rams in 2026?
Three newcomers to the Rams roster earned captaincies: wide receiver Davante Adams, defensive end Myles Garrett, and cornerback Trent McDuffie. Joe Cardona is also a new captain for the Rams, though he has previous captain experience.
Which player has the most career captaincies on the 2026 Rams roster?
Quarterback Matthew Stafford leads the 2026 Rams with an impressive 17 career NFL captaincies, having been named a captain every season except his rookie year.
Why did the Rams name 11 captains for the 2026 season?
The Rams named 11 captains to reflect the extensive leadership available within the team and to set high expectations for the 2026 season, especially with Super Bowl LXI being held at their home stadium, SoFi Stadium.
How is the Rams' 2026 captain group balanced across positions?
The 2026 Rams captain group is balanced with five offensive players, five defensive players, and one special teams representative (Joe Cardona) earning the leadership honor.