The Los Angeles Rams took on the Kansas City Chiefs in the first week of the preseason, emerging victorious, 20-12. Ty Simpson played well in his NFL debut, leading three scoring drives, while the defense didn't allow a single touchdown.
Here are five observations from the win.
The backup quarterback competition isn't open, but it should be
Stetson Bennett played almost all of the first quarter, with Simpson taking over for the rest of the game. Bennett's time proved two things. He has some issues operating the offense, and he's likely the QB2. His limited playing time doesn't point to them being an open competition, but after Simpson played with calmness and precision, I'd like to see each guy get a half to prove themselves next week.
Even with a limited playbook, Simpson impressed enough to open up the job.
Harrison Mevis hasn't missed a beat
Sean McVay robbed fans of seeing Mevis attempt a 61-yard field goal attempt to end the half, but the head coach's precaution was warranted as Mevis was as precise as ever. Perfect on the day with two made field goals and two made extra points, perhaps the team could avoid the issues that plagued them early in 2025.
Brennan Presley will be on the 53-man roster at some point this season
Building off a strong preseason in 2025, Presley looked even better against the Chiefs. Displaying his speed, his work as a receiver and returner could be an element the team incorporates as the season goes on. It will be hard for him to earn a spot on the roster to start the season, but if the Rams can keep him on the practice squad, expect three activations before he's moved to the active roster.
Presley was activated once last season, and he was a playmaker in college. He's too talented to keep on the sidelines.
Desjuan Johnson set to breakout
Mr. Irrelevant in the 2023 NFL Draft, Johnson's selection did not define his development. Slowly working himself into the rotation, he has not only become a critical piece of the team's run defense, but his development as a pass rusher should see him grow his overall influence on the unit.
It wouldn't be surprising to see him finish the season with at least four sacks.
Jarquez Hunter lost ground in the battle for snaps
It wasn't the best showing for Hunter on Saturday, as he was continually held to short yardage on carries, putting up 35 yards on nine attempts. It wasn't all his fault, as defenders were encircling him repeatedly, but Jordan Waters and Dean Connors had very solid days, with Connors catching two touchdowns.
That wasn't the big deal. What matters is that Ronnie Rivers didn't play. This indicates that Hunter is in the same position he was in as a rookie, and unless the team has the intention of purposefully putting Hunter on the field, he will get minimal snaps in the rotation – at best.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: 5 takeaways from Rams' win vs. Chiefs on Saturday