The Los Angeles Rams held their first full-squad Organized Team Activity (OTA) practice on Monday, June 8, 2026, at their Woodland Hills facility, marking the debut of newly acquired star defensive lineman Myles Garrett . According to the source report, Garrett participated in drills and worked with the blocking sled, while head coach Sean McVay oversaw a session that included veterans and rookies integrating into the team's schemes. The Rams are aiming to recover from a subpar 2025 campaign, and Garrett’s arrival is seen as a cornerstone move.

Garrett's Woodland Hills debut: A new anchor for the Rams' defensive line

The OTA practice on Monday gave reporters the first look at how the Rams plan to use the former first overall pick and multiple-time Pro Bowler. As the source noted, Garrett took part in line drills and interacted with defensive line coaches, suggesting an immediate integration into coordinator's plans. His presence alongside returning linemen Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske could transform a unit that struggled to generate consistent pressure in 2025.

The Rams traded significant assets to acquire Garrett, though the specific compensation was not disclosed in the brief report. The move signals a win-now philosophy for a franchise that reached the Super Bowl in 2021 but missed the playoffs last year.

Why Sean McVay's offense also got a workout: Puka Nacua and rookie Ty Simpson

While much of the focus was on Garrett, the OTA also featured offensive players including wide receiver Puka Nacua and rookie quarterback Ty Simpson, per the source. Nacua,a breakout star in 2023, is expected to be a primary target, while Simpson is competing for a backup role behind Matthew Stafford. The practice allowed McVay to evaluate how the new offensive pieces mesh with the revamped defense.

McVay’s leadership was evident as he moved between units, signaling the importance of early cohesion. The Rams' 2025 offensive struggles—ranking middle of the pack in scoring—prompted offseason additions that are now being tested.

The 2025 hangover: Can Garrett single-handedly reverse the Rams' fortunes?

The Rams' disappointing 2025 season left them on the outside of the playoff picture, a stark contrast to their recent championship pedigree. According to the source , the team is counting on Garrett's leadership and production to help restore contention. However, one OTA practice—even one featuring a superstar—is far from a guarantee. The defensive scheme must adapt to Garrett’s strengths,and the supporting cast must stay healthy.

Broader context: The Rams are part of a trend where teams trade premium assets for elite pass-rushers, a strategy that has worked for some (e.g., the 2020 Buccaneers) and backfired for others (e.g., the 2022 Broncos)... The Garrett trade likely cost multiple first-round picks, though the report omitted those details.

What remains unclear: Garrett's contract details and scheme fit

The source report did not specify the trade compensation or Garrett's current contract status, leaving open key questions about the Rams' long-term flexibility. Additionally, while Garrett participated in drills, it is unknown how quickly he will adapt to the Rams' defensive front techniques. The OTA is only the first step; full-team chemistry will be tested in training camp.

Another open question is whether the Rams' secondary, which struggled in 2025, can hold up long enough for Garrett to get to the quarterback. The source offered no update on the health of cornerbacks or safeties. Until those details emerge, the Garrett experiment remains a high-risk, high-reward proposition.