Los Angeles Rams Promote Nate Scheelhaase To Offensive Coordinator
The Los Angeles Rams finally filled their offensive coordinator vacancy on Friday. After watching Mike LaFleur pack his bags for Arizona to become the Cardinals’ head coach, the Los Angeles Rams promoted Passing Game Coordinator Nate Scheelhaase to offensive coordinator. Quarterbacks Coach Dave Ragone was also elevated to co-offensive coordinator while keeping his QB duties.
The Scheelhaase Rise: From College QB to NFL’s Next Big Thing
Scheelhaase’s trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. The 35-year-old former Illinois quarterback has quickly become one of the most sought-after coaching minds in football. And that’s not hyperbole.
This offseason alone, Scheelhaase interviewed for five head coaching positions. That is the kind of demand usually reserved for guys who’ve already proven they can run an offense at the highest level. But teams saw something special in him, even without the traditional OC résumé.
Now, after spending two seasons with the Rams, Scheelhaase gets his shot to officially run the show. Well, sort of. Sean McVay isn’t exactly known for handing over the offensive playbook and heading to the golf course. The head coach will still be the primary architect of the Rams’ attack, but Scheelhaase will be his right-hand man, the guy calling plays when McVay needs a breather, and the one responsible for making sure Matthew Stafford and company stay on the same page.
What Makes Scheelhaase Different?
His football IQ is off the charts, and he’s been turning heads since his days at Iowa State, where he served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach before joining the Rams in 2024.
During his time in Ames, Scheelhaase helped develop a passing attack that consistently punched above its weight class. He didn’t have five-star recruits lining up at every position, but he maximized what he had.
He knows how to exploit defensive weaknesses, how to get receivers open in tight windows, and how to make life easier for his quarterback. That last part is especially important now that Stafford has announced he’s returning for the 2026 season. The veteran QB needs someone who can keep the offense sharp, and Scheelhaase fits that bill perfectly.
The Ragone Factor: Two Heads Are Better Than One?
Now, about this co-offensive coordinator thing. Ragone spent three seasons running the Atlanta Falcons’ offense before joining the Rams in 2024. Ragone brings his own set of skills to the table, particularly when it comes to developing quarterbacks. His work with Stafford over the past two seasons has been instrumental in keeping the veteran QB playing at an elite level.
By giving Ragone the co-OC title while maintaining his QB coach responsibilities, the Rams are essentially doubling down on their commitment to keeping Stafford comfortable and the offense clicking.
The McVay Coaching Tree Keeps Growing
If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years, it’s that being McVay’s offensive coordinator is basically a golden ticket to a head coaching job. Just look at the track record:
- Matt LaFleur went from Rams OC to Packers head coach
- Kevin O’Connell made the same jump to Minnesota
- Liam Coen got hired by Jacksonville
- Mike LaFleur just landed the Cardinals gig
Scheelhaase is already on the radar of NFL front offices, and this promotion only strengthens his candidacy for future head coaching openings. The Rams know they probably won’t have him for long, but they are hoping that his brilliance will help them stay competitive while he’s there.
What This Means For the Rams’ Offense
The Rams had the best offense in football last season, and they’re not interested in fixing what isn’t broken. By promoting from within, they maintain continuity and avoid the growing pains that come with bringing in an outside hire.
Scheelhaase already knows McVay’s system inside and out. He knows the terminology, the personnel, and the nuances of how this offense operates. That familiarity is invaluable, especially when you’re working with a quarterback like Stafford, who thrives on consistency and chemistry with his coaches.
The addition of Kliff Kingsbury earlier this month adds another layer of offensive firepower. Kingsbury brings his own creative flair and experience, which should mesh nicely with what Scheelhaase and Ragone bring to the table.
Final Thoughts
The Rams took their time making this decision, and it’s clear they made the right call. Scheelhaase represents the future of offensive coaching in the NFL—young, innovative, and unafraid to push boundaries. Pairing him with Ragone gives the Rams the best of both worlds: fresh ideas combined with veteran wisdom.
As for Scheelhaase himself? He’s probably already knee-deep in game film, breaking down defenses and scheming up ways to make life miserable for opposing coordinators. That’s just who he is.
