Rob Havenstein, the veteran right tackle for the Los Angeles Rams, has officially announced his retirement after an 11-year career. The longest-serving player on the Rams’ roster shared his decision on social media Tuesday, marking the end of a significant era for both the player and the franchise.
Havenstein’s retirement announcement naturally highlights his contributions and achievements during his time with the team, emphasizing his loyalty through the Rams’ move from St. Louis to Los Angeles and his role in the team’s ongoing success.
Career Highlights and Role with the Rams Franchise
Selected in the 2015 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin, Havenstein remained a consistent starter throughout his tenure with the Rams. He was the last active player on the team who was part of the St. Louis roster before the franchise’s relocation back to Los Angeles. Over his career, Havenstein started 148 games and was instrumental in the Rams’ offensive line.
His leadership qualities were recognized repeatedly, as he frequently served as a team captain. Havenstein was also a key figure in some of the franchise’s most memorable moments, contributing to four NFC West Championships, two NFC Championships, and earning one Super Bowl ring. He started in 13 playoff games, including two Super Bowls, protecting the quarterback’s blind side alongside left tackle Andrew Whitworth.
Later Career, Injuries, and Transition
Recent seasons, however, saw challenges; injuries allowed Havenstein to participate in just 18 games over the last two years, with his most recent game appearance in November of the previous season. Warren McClendon stepped into Havenstein’s place on the starting lineup and performed competently. Still, Havenstein made an attempt to return to practice prior to the NFC Championship Game, hoping to contribute if the Rams advanced to the Super Bowl.
In his retirement message, Havenstein expressed gratitude for his family, mentioning his wife and three daughters, and shared his optimistic outlook for the future.
11 years, 150+ starts, 4 time captain, 4 NFC West Championships, 2 NFC Championships and 1x Super Bowl Champion,
Rob Havenstein wrote on social media.
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
Impact on the Rams and Franchise Longevity
With Havenstein’s departure, only long snapper Jake McQuaide remains as a player who was also part of the St. Louis Rams team, though McQuaide is currently a free agent. McQuaide had left and then returned to the Rams, highlighting the ongoing roster changes the team has undergone.
Currently, tight end Tyler Higbee holds the distinction of being the longest-tenured player on the Rams roster. Like Havenstein, Higbee was drafted shortly after the team’s move back to the West Coast and also faces free agency.
Havenstein’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter for the Rams, emphasizing the natural transition of talent and leadership as the franchise continues to evolve in the competitive NFL landscape.
