Rob Havenstein, the Los Angeles Rams‘ right tackle, has confirmed his retirement after an 11-year professional football career. The announcement was made public on Tuesday, marking the end of the longest active tenure on the Rams’ roster. His retirement signals the conclusion of a notable chapter for both Havenstein and the franchise.
Career Highlights and Role With the Rams
Drafted from Wisconsin in 2015, Havenstein remained a consistent starter for the Rams during his entire career. As the last player on the current roster who transitioned with the team from St. Louis to Los Angeles, he maintained a steady presence through the franchise’s return to the West Coast. Over 11 seasons, he started in more than 148 games and played a critical role in helping the Rams secure significant victories, including four NFC West Championships, two NFC Championships, and one Super Bowl title.
Havenstein also served as a team captain on multiple occasions and started 13 playoff games. Notably, he protected the quarterback’s right side, lining up opposite veteran left tackle Andrew Whitworth in two Super Bowl appearances. His leadership and reliability made him an instrumental figure in the Rams’ offensive line.
Recent Challenges and Final Season Efforts
Injuries limited Havenstein’s action over the last two years, restricting him to just 18 games. He last took the field in November but made a determined attempt to return to practice ahead of the NFC Championship game, hoping to contribute if the Rams advanced to the Super Bowl. Meanwhile, Warren McClendon stepped into the starting role and performed competently in Havenstein’s absence.
Gratitude and Personal Reflections
In his retirement statement, Havenstein expressed deep appreciation for his family, specifically mentioning his wife and three daughters. Reflecting on his journey, he said:
“11 years, 150+ starts, 4 time captain, 4 NFC West Championships, 2 NFC Championships and 1x Super Bowl Champion,”
“What a ride it’s been! I can look back on my career and smile knowing I have given everything I had and more to the game I love. In saying that, I am officially retiring from the NFL.”
“As this chapter ends, I couldn’t be more grateful, hopeful, and excited to see what comes next!”
?Rob Havenstein, NFL Player
Shifts in Rams’ Veteran Presence Post-Retirement
With Havenstein’s departure, long snapper Jake McQuaide is now the only remaining player from the St. Louis Rams era still with the franchise, although he is currently a free agent. McQuaide made the switch alongside Havenstein from St. Louis to Los Angeles but spent time away from the team between 2021 and his return last November.
Additionally, tight end Tyler Higbee, drafted in 2016 shortly after the team’s relocation back to Los Angeles, has become the Rams’ longest-tenured player. However, like McQuaide, Higbee is also a free agent, signaling potential further changes to the roster’s veteran core.
