The preseason may not count in the standings, but for the Los Angeles Rams, the 2026 exhibition slate could play a major role in shaping another Super Bowl pursuit. With expectations sky-high entering the season, Sean McVay and his staff will use the team's three-game preseason schedule to evaluate young talent, solidify depth battles, and prepare a veteran-heavy roster for one of the toughest regular season schedules in football. The Rams will open preseason play on the road against the Kansas City Chiefs before returning home to face the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium. Los Angeles will then wrap up the preseason in a crosstown showdown against the Los Angeles Chargers.
The Rams will go on the road for their first preseason game of the year against Andy Reid's Chiefs. The last time these two teams met in the preseason was during Jared Goff's rookie year, where the Rams secured a 21-20 victory thanks to a game-winning 10-yard touchdown pass from Goff to Malcolm Brown. This matchup will offer an early test for the Rams' rookies and bubble players against one of the NFL's most dynamic offenses.
SoFi Stadium will welcome Kellen Moore and the Saints for the Rams' home preseason opener. The last preseason meeting between these teams came in McVay's second year as head coach, with the Saints winning 28-0 as the Rams rested their starters while Taysom Hill led New Orleans in passing. This year, fans can expect a more competitive affair as Los Angeles looks to build momentum on home turf.
Even though it will be a "road" game, the Rams will have the luxury of staying in their own city and stadium for the final preseason contest before they travel to Melbourne, Australia for Week 1. The Chargers and Rams have made it a yearly tradition to face each other due to the same-city convenience. In 2025, the Rams snagged a last-second victory from the Chargers, with Stetson Bennett throwing a touchdown on the final play to secure a 23-22 win. This year's crosstown clash promises more high-stakes drama as players fight for roster spots.
The Rams are also back on CBS LA, thanks to a new multi-year partnership as the official hometown television partner. This deal brings exclusive preseason games, original programming, and expanded year-round coverage to fans across Southern California. With the preseason serving as a proving ground for quarterbacks like Ty Simpson and Stetson Bennett, every snap will be crucial for players hoping to earn their place on the final roster. Get ready for an action-packed preseason that sets the stage for what could be a memorable Rams campaign.