Heading into 2026, the Rams recognize the importance of supplementary contributors along the edge and across the defensive front. While Garrett and Young will be the most frequently deployed pass rushers, the rotation players are critical for sustaining pressure in subpackages and ensuring fresh legs in late-game moments. The team’s defensive coordinator and coaching staff will need to maximize these options to maintain their edge-rush efficiency throughout long games and across a demanding 17-game schedule.
One candidate who could emerge as a breakout performer in this system is Josiah Stewart, a second-year defensive lineman who impressed during his rookie season in a limited role. Stewart’s early tape suggested he could develop into a versatile weapon for Chris Shula’s defense, capable of contributing as both a run defender and a pass rusher. Despite registering only 166 pass-rush snaps as a rookie, Stewart showed flashes of ability that have analysts and coaches optimistic about his growth trajectory. His ability to bend around the edge, deliver power at contact, and finish plays gave the Rams a glimpse of what he could become with more opportunities.
Analysts have highlighted Stewart’s potential as a subpackage player who can contribute on blitz downs, functioning as a “Swiss Army knife” for the defense. The idea is that as Garrett occupies a larger role inside in certain subpackage looks, Stewart could find more wide-alignment opportunities and carve out a late-game closer role. In his rookie season, Stewart managed to sack the quarterback three times, accumulate 22 total tackles, and force a fumble, despite limited playing time. These are promising indicators for a player who is still early in his development.
Professional evaluators awarded Stewart a solid pass-rush grade for his rookie campaign, reflecting his athletic traits and the raw potential he demonstrated. The combination of NFL experience, improved understanding of the Rams’ defensive scheme, and additional repetitions should help him take a meaningful step forward in his second season. If Stewart does realize his potential, he could become a key contributor in pass-rush rotations, offering fresh disruption when Garrett and Young are off the field and giving the Rams a more dynamic and unpredictable edge presence.
Head coach Sean McVay has spoken positively about Stewart’s football instincts and versatility. He has praised Stewart for his hand usage, get-off, and ability to execute plays with purpose, even highlighting how the player’s natural instincts translate into drops and reactions on the field. McVay’s assessment suggests Stewart has the mental and physical tools to expand his role and contribute more consistently in the 2026 campaign.
Looking ahead, the Rams’ pass-rush identity could hinge on balancing the veteran star power of Garrett with Young’s developing prowess and the growth of Stewart and other interior and edge contributors. Garrett’s presence inside in subpackages could free up outside linebackers and other linemen to take advantage of favorable matchups, while Young’s versatility allows the defense to execute multiple front shapes. The coaching staff will likely emphasize a cohesive schematics approach that leverages each player’s strengths, enabling a multi-faceted rush attack rather than relying solely on two primary producers.
For Rams fans, the key narrative of the 2026 season centers on continued development across the defensive line. Garrett and Young provide a high ceiling for immediate impact, but the true ceiling will be unlocked if second-year players like Stewart take meaningful strides and other rotational pieces emerge as reliable contributors. As the season unfolds, the Rams will be watching carefully to see which players seize opportunities in subpackages, how the front seven acclimates to new variations in alignment, and how well the unit maintains pressure against top-tier offenses throughout the year.
In summary, the Rams enter the 2026 season with one of the league’s most dangerous edge duos and a promising young defender in Josiah Stewart who could become a breakout star. The success of this group will depend on outside pass-rush contributors stepping up in rotation, Stewart continuing his development, and the defense executing its game-plan with precision. If everything comes together, Los Angeles could field one of the most disruptive fronts in the league, capable of producing consistent sack numbers and altering the trajectory of games with relentless pressure on the quarterback.
