Rams Face Uncertainty at Right Tackle After Havenstein's Retirement

The team must address a key offensive line position after the departure of a longtime starter.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Los Angeles Rams were one game away from the Super Bowl last season, but their roster will look different in 2026 after veteran right tackle Rob Havenstein announced his retirement. Quarterback Matthew Stafford, the reigning MVP, has committed to returning, but the Rams now have a significant hole to fill on their offensive line.

Why it matters

The right tackle position is crucial for protecting the quarterback's blind side and opening holes in the running game. Havenstein was a stalwart for the Rams for nearly a decade, so his retirement creates a major void that the team will need to address through the draft or free agency.

The details

Havenstein, 32, started 115 games for the Rams over his 9-year NFL career after being drafted in the 2nd round in 2015. He was a key part of the offensive line that helped the Rams reach the Super Bowl in 2018 and 2021. His retirement leaves the Rams with a significant hole to fill on the right side of their offensive line as they look to make another deep playoff run.

  • Havenstein announced his retirement on February 10, 2026.
  • The Rams' 2026 season is set to begin in September 2026.

The players

Rob Havenstein

A 9-year veteran offensive tackle who started 115 games for the Los Angeles Rams before announcing his retirement.

Matthew Stafford

The Los Angeles Rams' starting quarterback, who was the NFL MVP in 2025 and has committed to returning for the 2026 season.

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What’s next

The Rams will need to identify and acquire a new starting right tackle through the draft or free agency in the coming months to solidify their offensive line ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The retirement of longtime starting right tackle Rob Havenstein creates a significant hole for the Los Angeles Rams to fill on their offensive line, but the team's ability to retain reigning MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford gives them a strong foundation to build around as they look to make another Super Bowl run in 2026.