Rams Bring Back Coleman Shelton. The Los Angeles Rams are bringing back a familiar face to their offensive line, reportedly signing center Coleman Shelton to a new contract. Shelton, who spent his first five NFL seasons with the Rams before playing for the Chicago Bears in 2024, returns to a team where he previously developed into a reliable starter. The move, first reported by various sources, signals the Rams’ intent to add depth, experience, and versatility to a unit that has faced challenges in recent years.
Shelton, now 29, entered the league as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Washington in 2018. After bouncing around early in his career, he found a home with the Rams, eventually becoming a full-time starter at center in 2022 and 2023. During those two seasons, he started all 17 regular-season games each year, providing stability to an offensive line tasked with protecting quarterback Matthew Stafford and supporting the team’s running game. Shelton also contributed to the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory in 2021, starting two playoff games during that championship run.
After leaving the Rams following the 2023 season, Shelton signed with the Chicago Bears for the 2024 campaign, where he started all 17 games at center. His performance with the Bears showcased his durability and consistency, making him an attractive option for teams looking to strengthen their offensive line in free agency. Now, with his return to Los Angeles, Shelton brings not only familiarity with the team’s system and coaching staff but also valuable experience and versatility. In addition to his expertise at center, Shelton has experience playing guard, which could make him a flexible option for the Rams’ offensive line rotation.
A Strategic Addition for Depth and Competition
The Rams’ decision to re-sign Shelton comes at a time when the team is looking to maintain competitiveness in the NFC West following a 9-7 season in 2024, which saw them earn a wild card playoff berth. The offensive line has been a critical area of focus, particularly after injuries and inconsistent play plagued the unit in recent years. While rookie center Beaux Limmer showed promise in 2024, Shelton’s return provides competition and depth at the position.
Head coach Sean McVay and offensive line coach Kevin Carberry are familiar with Shelton’s skill set, which should allow for a seamless reintegration into the team. Shelton’s experience in McVay’s offensive schemes and Carberry’s techniques could prove invaluable, especially as the Rams prepare for the 2025 season with aspirations of making a deeper playoff run. His presence could also serve as a mentorship opportunity for younger linemen like Limmer, helping to develop the next generation of talent on the roster.
From a strategic standpoint, Shelton’s versatility is a significant asset. His ability to play both center and guard provides flexibility for the Rams, who may need to adjust their lineup based on injuries or performance. This signing aligns with the team’s broader offseason strategy, which also includes adding wide receiver Davante Adams and signing defensive tackle Poona Ford to a three-year, $29.6 million deal to address run defense issues.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
The reaction to Shelton’s return has been largely positive among Rams fans and analysts, with many taking to social media platforms like X to express their approval. One fan posted, “Coleman Shelton is a solid pickup—great depth and knows the system,” while another noted, “Shelton was underrated during his first stint with the Rams. Glad to have him back!” Analysts have also praised the move, with one sports commentator stating on X, “Shelton’s return is low-key one of the smarter moves by the Rams this offseason. Depth + experience = playoff insurance.”
Some fans, however, have questioned whether Shelton’s return signals concerns about Limmer’s development or the team’s long-term plans at center. Others see it as a precautionary measure, ensuring the Rams have a proven veteran in place to protect Stafford, who remains the cornerstone of the team’s offensive success.
Looking Ahead
Coleman Shelton’s return to the Rams is a low-risk, high-reward move that addresses a key area of need while bringing back a player who understands the team’s culture and expectations. His experience, versatility, and familiarity with the system make him a valuable addition to a roster looking to build on its 2024 success.
As the Rams prepare for the 2025 season, Shelton’s role will likely evolve based on the team’s needs. Whether he competes for the starting center job or serves as a reliable backup with the ability to step in at guard, his presence strengthens the offensive line’s depth chart. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, that kind of flexibility and insurance is crucial.
In a league where offensive line play can make or break a season, the Rams’ decision to bring back Coleman Shelton is a reminder of the importance of experience and continuity. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on how Shelton fits into the team’s plans—and whether his return can help propel the Rams to new heights in 2025.
For more discussion on the Los Angeles Rams, please visit The RAMS Forum
About Author
