Full Breakdown
Rookie Contenders for Starting Jobs in Los Angeles NFL Training Camps
7/13/2026, 12:57:42 AM
Offseason Timing and Training Camp Outlook
The NFL’s offseason entered its quietest phase between mid-June and mid-July, with teams on a month-long break before minicamps resume. Three weeks remain until training camps open, followed by preseason games and a regular season that begins the week of Sept. 7. In this lull, analysts have spotlighted one rookie from each Los Angeles franchise who could secure a starting role when camps commence.
Rams Tight End Max Klare: A Potential Starter
The Los Angeles Rams drafted tight end Max Klare in the second round of the 2026 draft after his 43 receptions for 448 yards and two touchdowns at Ohio State. The Rams field a prolific passing attack led by MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford and All-Pro receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, yet they lack a dominant, George Kittle-type tight end. Last season the Rams employed a “tight-end-by-committee” approach, with Colby Parkinson (43 catches, 408 yards, eight TDs), Tyler Higbee (25 catches, 281 yards, three TDs), Davis Allen (24 catches, 208 yards, three TDs), and Terrance Ferguson (11 catches, 231 yards, three TDs) sharing duties. While Parkinson is expected to start as TE1, Klare’s production and draft status position him to quickly rise on the depth chart and potentially claim a starting spot.
Chargers Defensive End Akheem Mesidor: Pro-Ready Pass Rusher
The Los Angeles Chargers selected defensive end Akheem Mesidor with their first-round pick after he led the Miami Hurricanes and the ACC with 12.5 sacks in his final college season. Over 65 games spanning six seasons at West Virginia and Miami, Mesidor amassed 35.5 sacks, 115 pressures, 52.5 tackles for loss, 16 QB hits and five forced fumbles, according to Pro Football Focus. With the departure of second-leading sacker Odafe Oweh to Washington, the Chargers lack a clear pass-rushing threat beyond Tuli Tuipulotu. Mesidor’s demonstrated production and readiness make him a strong candidate to win a starting role in the upcoming camp.
Implications for Los Angeles Offenses and Defenses
If Klare secures a starting tight-end position, the Rams could add a true elite pass-catcher to an already potent aerial attack, potentially easing the reliance on a committee approach. Conversely, Mesidor’s emergence as a starter would give the Chargers a home-grown, high-impact edge-rusher, addressing a key vacancy on the defensive line. Both prospects illustrate how the 2026 rookie classes could shape the competitive trajectories of Los Angeles’ NFL franchises as the season approaches.
