Robert Woods has swiftly transitioned into coaching after retiring, joining the Los Angeles Rams as an assistant coach for the wide receivers. The 33-year-old, who recently signed a one-day contract to retire officially as a Ram, returns to the team where he spent five seasons of his NFL career.
Woods’ Football Journey and Experience
Selected in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills, Woods played four seasons in Buffalo before moving to the Rams in 2017. After five productive years in Los Angeles, he had stints with the Tennessee Titans and Houston Texans. His playing career concluded after failing to make the Pittsburgh Steelers’ roster last year. With 12 seasons as an NFL wide receiver, Woods brings valuable insight and familiarity with Head Coach Sean McVay’s offensive system.
Expanded Rams Coaching Staff and Roles
Woods joins a substantial coaching lineup under Sean McVay, including assistant head coach Kliff Kingsbury, offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, and wide receivers coach Rob Calabrese. The offensive staff also features quarterbacks coach and associate coordinator Dave Ragone, offensive line coach Ryan Wendell, and tight ends coach Scott Huff. Senior offensive assistant Eric Yarber shares wide receivers coaching responsibilities, while running backs coach Ron Gould and assistant offensive line coaches Zak Kromer and Brian Allen add to the offensive support.
Defensively, Chris Shula leads as defensive coordinator with Giff Smith overseeing the run game and defensive line. Other defensive staff includes inside linebackers coach Greg Williams, pass game coordinator Jimmy Lake, safeties coach Chris Beake, outside linebackers coach Joe Coniglio, and pass rush coordinator Drew Wilkins. Supporting roles such as assistant defensive backs coach Michael Hunter and defensive assistant Robert Wright contribute to a comprehensive defensive staff.
Special teams responsibilities lie with coordinator Bubba Ventrone, assisted by Kyle Hoke, while game management is handled by Dan Shamash, who also assists with tight ends coaching.
Significance of Woods’ New Role with the Rams
Robert Woods’ appointment as assistant wide receivers coach marks the beginning of his post-playing career within an experienced Rams organization. His knowledge of the team’s offensive scheme and extensive NFL experience position him well to develop the next generation of receivers. This addition reflects the Rams’ commitment to building a strong coaching staff that blends veteran insights with proven expertise, anticipating continued success on the field under Sean McVay’s leadership.
