​With training camp just two weeks away, the countdown to the 2026 season has begun as players return to the field to sharpen their craft. Warren McClendon Jr. stands out as a standout to watch this year, poised to begin Week 1 as a projected starter for the first time in his career. After a productive stint filling in for Rob Havenstein last season, McClendon is set to be a fixture on the offensive line this year. His responsibilities will include blocking on the front side at right tackle, keeping Matthew Stafford protected, and creating substantial running lanes for Kyren Williams and Blake Corum.
McClendon enters 2026 ranked as the Rams’ 14th-most important player in our rankings. While Puka Nacua, Byron Young, and Kobie Turner drew most of the attention as the headliners from the Rams’ 2023 draft class, McClendon was also part of that group—and he was actually selected three spots ahead of Nacua, signaling Los Angeles’ stronger belief in him than in the former BYU receiver. The 174th overall pick in the fifth round, McClendon brought his talents from Georgia to Los Angeles. He spent his first two seasons as a backup, but stepped into a starting role in 2025 after Havenstein was sidelined by injury.
Last season, McClendon appeared in 17 games with 10 starts, posting an 86.7 run-blocking grade and a 73.9 pass-blocking grade, while allowing 12 pressures and just 1 sack. As things stand, he is projected to be the Rams’ starting right tackle, though that designation could shift depending on Alaric Jackson’s off-field situation. If Jackson faces a suspension stemming from his offseason arrest (for which charges were ultimately not pursued), the Rams may need to recalibrate their offensive line. Potential adjustments could include moving McClendon to the left side in place of Jackson, with Keagen Trost or David Quessenberry stepping in at right tackle. Alternatively, they could keep McClendon at right tackle and shuffle Trost or Quessenberry to left tackle. Regardless of the exact configuration, McClendon is expected to be a starter somewhere along the O-line, most likely at right tackle as he was last season.
McClendon’s 86.7 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus ranked fifth-best among NFL offensive tackles last season. He demonstrated his power in the run game, sealing edges and creating generous running lanes for his backs to push outside. Although left tackle has traditionally been viewed as the premier position on the line, the modern NFL has elevated the importance of right tackle as pass rushers increasingly threaten both edges. McClendon’s presence will be crucial in protecting the quarterback and stabilizing the line.
This season’s challenge includes facing some of the league’s most formidable pass rushers, such as Nick Bosa, Brian Burns, Nik Bonitto, Maxx Crosby, and Micah Parsons. The Rams will rely on McClendon to perform at a high level to prevent the pocket from collapsing around MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford, who is not known for improvising to escape pressure. A strong showing from McClendon will be essential to keep Stafford clean and to allow the offense to function efficiently.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire and highlights the Rams’ 26 most important players for improved SEO.