As LA Rams gear up for their playoff showdown against the Carolina Panthers, the focus naturally remains on postseason success.
However, even as Rams prepare for a potential deep playoff run, the franchise is facing growing concerns that extend well beyond the immediate win-or-go-home stakes.
Behind the scenes, another challenge is quietly taking shape—one that could significantly impact the team’s future stability.
Rams’ playoff push overshadowed by coaching interest
Rams’ sustained success has once again placed their coaching staff under the NFL’s microscope. Head coach Sean McVay’s influence continues to ripple across the league, and as the next hiring cycle approaches, multiple franchises are lining up potential candidates from his staff.
This pattern is nothing new for Los Angeles, but the volume of interest this offseason appears particularly notable. Teams searching for offensive innovation and defensive consistency are increasingly viewing LA Rams’ coaching room as a talent pipeline.
Mike LaFleur’s reputation rebuilt in Los Angeles
One of the most prominent names generating buzz is offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. After a challenging tenure with the New York Jets earlier in his career, LaFleur has quietly re-established himself in Los Angeles.
Under his guidance, Rams’ offense has shown renewed efficiency and adaptability, playing a central role in the team’s postseason return.
ESPN’s Pete Schrager recently underscored LaFleur’s rising profile, noting that his name “keeps coming up” in offensive head coaching conversations around the league, even before teams are officially permitted to request interviews.
Chris Shula anchors an overachieving defense
Defensive coordinator Chris Shula remains another pillar of LA Rams’ success. Despite working with limited high-end draft capital—just one first-round pick on the defensive side—Shula has constructed one of the league’s most disciplined and effective units.
Relying largely on late-round selections and free agents, his defense has consistently exceeded expectations, further elevating his standing among league evaluators.
Shula’s ability to maintain elite performance under roster constraints has not gone unnoticed, adding to Rams’ list of potential offseason losses.
Nate Scheelhaase emerges as a rising star
Beyond the established coordinators, a younger name is rapidly gaining traction. Pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase has drawn increasing attention from league insiders.
At just 35 years old, Scheelhaase is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s brightest young assistants.
Schrager also pointed to Scheelhaase’s growing momentum, highlighting his previous interviews for offensive coordinator roles with Jacksonville and Tampa Bay as evidence of his rising stock.
LA Rams’ offensive resurgence this season has been among the league’s most impressive turnarounds, fueling belief that another Super Bowl run is within reach.