In 2025, Warren McClendon Jr. became a crucial asset for the Los Angeles Rams as he provided vital depth at right tackle. With established starter and team captain Rob Havenstein struggling through ankle and knee injuries, McClendon started 10 regular season games and all three playoff contests, showcasing his readiness to fill the role.
During his 10 starts, McClendon executed 380 pass blocking snaps and was one of only three offensive tackles in the league to concede just one sack and no more than three quarterback hits, according to TruMedia statistics.
Head Coach Sean McVay Endorses McClendon as Potential Successor
With Havenstein debating whether to return for a twelfth season or retire, Rams head coach Sean McVay affirmed McClendon’s strong position to take over as the starting right tackle if Havenstein opts to step away. McVay expressed full confidence in McClendon’s abilities and progress.
“He has. He’s done great. He played really well. You mentioned Alaric, I’m proud as hell of Warren McClendon. These guys deserve a ton of credit. They’re the ones out there doing the work. There are a lot of people in the midst of that process that help whether that be their teammates, coaches, and then just continuing to mature and ascend. I was really happy and proud of the way that Warren played. He did an outstanding job for us this year.”
– Sean McVay, Head Coach
Key Growth Areas Highlighted by Former Offensive Coordinator
Former Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur pointed to McClendon’s third year as marked by notable growth in physical development, playing maturity, and improved composure on the field. After a challenging start to his career due to injuries, McClendon’s healthy status in 2024 allowed him to establish himself more solidly.
LaFleur reflected on McClendon’s initial struggles, stating he arrived at the Rams “banged up” after missing training camp in his rookie year with a knee injury, which limited his snaps to just 32 during 2023. The 2024 season, during which McClendon rotated between tackle positions, felt more like his true rookie year and prepared him for the right tackle demands that followed.
Consistent Performance in Right Tackle Role
Settling comfortably at right tackle in 2025, McClendon earned high marks from Pro Football Focus, finishing 8th in overall offensive grade (83.5) and 5th in run blocking (86.7) among tackles who played at least half the snaps. His improvement was linked not only to physical and mental growth but also to adapting his film study techniques based on advice from veteran offensive linemen.
Despite these numbers, McClendon remains grounded about his progress and contributions.
“I really try not to get too big in on the stats and stuff like that. Just trying to do my job. I don’t want to let anybody down.”
– Warren McClendon, Right Tackle
Mentorship from Veteran Starter Rob Havenstein
A major factor in McClendon’s development was the mentorship provided by Havenstein, who actively provided in-game guidance. McClendon highlighted how Havenstein would give frequent pointers about technical aspects such as footwork, depth on dropbacks, and hand placement during games.
“After every series, he’ll come up to me and be like ‘Hey, good series there or, hey, I saw this,'”
– Warren McClendon, Right Tackle
Future Outlook and Team Confidence
Entering the offseason, McClendon is eligible for a contract extension, with 2026 marking the final season of his rookie deal. Having been drafted in the fifth round, his steady progression has garnered praise from Rams general manager Les Snead, who emphasized McClendon’s role as both a team and individual success story.
“Warren’s a success story, both individually and for the team. He came in and he played his role as a backup, sometimes active, sometimes not active. Worked on his trade, worked on his craft. Got a more consistent opportunity this year when Rob was struggling with the injuries and made the most of it.”
– Les Snead, General Manager
McClendon’s ascent provides the Rams with optimism about the stability of their right tackle position, especially as Havenstein weighs his future. The younger lineman’s capacity to handle the responsibilities under pressure during a playoff run suggests he is ready to anchor the line. Moving forward, how the Rams manage contract talks and further develop McClendon will shape their offensive line’s performance in coming seasons.
