The Los Angeles Rams' game-day roster for their season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, featured several surprising inactive players from their 2026 NFL Draft class. Notably, first-round quarterback Ty Simpson, second-round tight end Max Klare, and sixth-round receiver C.J. Daniels were all ruled inactive for the historic matchup.
Simpson's omission was the most unexpected, given he was selected No. 13 overall. Despite an encouraging preseason where he completed 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns in his debut, and added more yardage in subsequent exhibition games, Stetson Bennett will serve as Matthew Stafford's backup. Simpson has been designated the emergency quarterback.
Klare's absence also raised eyebrows, particularly given the Rams' offensive scheme. Los Angeles heavily utilized 13 personnel last season, running more plays with three tight ends than any other team in the league, and kept five tight ends on its initial roster. Despite this, the second-round pick will have to wait for his NFL debut.
Receiver C.J. Daniels, who had impressed head coach Sean McVay with his maturity and engagement during training camp, was also inactive. McVay had previously outlined a potential role for the rookie, but he and veteran receiver Tutu Atwell were both left inactive for the opener.
Offensive lineman Bill Murray rounded out the list of inactive players.
While these decisions do not necessarily define the rookies' seasons, they indicate the Rams' pecking order entering Week 1. The team appeared to prioritize experience for its historic international opener, despite the draft status and preseason performances of Simpson, Klare, and Daniels.