5 Key Storylines to Watch in Rams Preseason Opener vs. Chiefs

The Los Angeles Rams are set to take on the Kansas City Chiefs in their preseason opener on Saturday, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the NFL's exhibition season. A lot of eyes will be on Ty Simpson as he makes his preseason debut, looking to make a lasting impression on the coaching staff and fans alike. Meanwhile, fans will also be eager to see how the team's depth chart shake out, particularly in areas like the quarterback and wide receiver positions. As the team takes to the field, here are five key storylines to watch in Rams preseason opener vs. Chiefs.

Ty Simpson's preseason debut will be one of the most closely watched aspects of the game. The rookie quarterback, who has been making waves in training camp, will look to put his skills on full display in a live-game setting. While he won't be playing the full game, it will be a good opportunity to see what he's learned in training camp come together on the field. One aspect to watch will be how Simpson handles the pressure of playing in a live game, and whether he can maintain a clean process despite the natural mistakes that come with being a rookie. Fans will also be interested in seeing if Simpson can lead the offense to a few scores, and how he navigates the team's complex playbook. With so much riding on his performance, Simpson will undoubtedly be motivated to prove himself.

As we look at the depth chart, one player who will be under scrutiny is running back Jarquez Hunter. Listed behind Ronnie Rivers and alongside Dean Connors and Jordan Waters on the team's initial depth chart, Hunter needs to have a strong preseason to secure his spot on the roster. And with the Rams set to play all of their regulars in the first game, Hunter should get plenty of carries. Fans will be watching closely to see if he can separate himself from the pack and establish a foothold as the team's third-string running back. With the team looking to add depth in the backfield, Hunter's performance could make all the difference in the world.

The Rams may not be playing any of their starters, but the team still has plenty to watch for on offense. Over the past few years, the Rams have done a nice job developing their own linemen, and it would be nice to see one or two players on the line stand out and show some upside. With players like Justin Dedich and Alaric Jackson already making waves in the league, it's not hard to imagine the Rams unearthing another hidden gem. As the team looks to bolster its roster, the development of its own linemen could be the key to unlocking success. And with the Chiefs providing a formidable opponent, the Rams will have to dig deep to find their best players. The team has shown a knack for adapting its playbook to bring out the best in its players, so fans will be interested in seeing how McVay's system plays out in the preseason.

Offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase will be another key aspect of the game to watch, as he calls plays in place of the usual starter. Given that McVay has typically given his assistants more responsibility in recent years, Scheelhaase should be expected to be well-prepared. And as a potential future head coach, the Rams will be watching closely to see how he handles the pressures of the job. With players like CJ Daniels, Brennan Presley, Tru Edwards, and Mario Williams looking to make a name for themselves at wide receiver, the Rams will be eager to see how Scheelhaase's system plays out on the field. With so much talent on display, fans will be on the edge of their seats as the Rams take on the Chiefs in the preseason opener.

With the Rams facing off against a tough opponent in the Chiefs, fans will be eager to see how the team's wide receivers hold up. Everyone remembers Nelson Spruce, Lance McCutcheon, and Bryce Perkins, who earned spots on the roster with their impressive performances in the preseason. But with the wide receiver corps looking to be one of the team's weaker spots, CJ Daniels and co. will have to step up if the Rams want to challenge the Chiefs for a win. With Presley and Edwards both looking to build on their rookie seasons, as well, fans will be watching closely to see how the team's receivers hold up against the Chiefs' tough secondary. And as for the quarterback position, with Ty Simpson looking to make a lasting impression, it's anyone's guess what the Rams' starting lineup will look like in Week 1. The Rams have always been about developing their own talent, and it's not hard to imagine them unearthing a gem at wide receiver this season.

The preseason is always an exciting time of year for football fans, and the Rams' preseason opener is no exception. With so much talent on display and a whole lot at stake, fans will be glued to their screens, eager to see what the Rams have to offer. As the team takes the field against the Chiefs, they'll be looking to put on a show and prove that they're ready to take on the best of the NFL. With their eyes on a potential championship season, every snap counts for the Rams, and fans will be watching closely as they face off against one of the league's toughest opponents. With so much to look at and so much at stake, the Rams' preseason opener promises to be one heck of a show.

Blaine Grisak is the Lead Publisher for Rams on SI covering the Los Angeles Rams. Prior to joining On Sports Illustrated, he covered the Rams for TurfShow Times, attending events such as the NFL Draft, NFL Combine, and Senior Bowl. A graduate of Northeastern University, Blaine grew up in Montana.

© 2026 ABG-SI LLC - SPORTS ILLUSTRATED IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ABG-SI LLC. - All Rights Reserved.

The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Sports Illustrated or its affiliates, licensees and related brands. All picks and predictions are suggestions only and not a guarantee of success or profit. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.