In a move aimed at fortifying their offensive line, the Los Angeles Rams have signed veteran offensive tackle David Quessenberry to a one-year contract. The announcement, made on May 29, 2025, comes as the Rams continue to refine their roster during the offseason, with organized team activities (OTAs) in full swing. Quessenberry, a 12-year NFL veteran who most recently played for the Minnesota Vikings, adds experience and depth to a Rams offensive line. The 6-foot-5, 310-pound offensive lineman originally entered the NFL as a sixth-round draft pick by the Texans out of San Jose State in 2013.
David Quessenberry: A Veteran Presence
David Quessenberry, aged 34, brings a wealth of experience to the Rams’ roster. Drafted in the sixth round by the Houston Texans in 2013, Quessenberry has appeared in 80 career games with 25 starts across multiple teams, including the Texans, Tennessee Titans, Buffalo Bills, and Minnesota Vikings. His most recent stint with the Vikings saw him play in 33 games over the past two seasons, starting four, primarily as a swing tackle providing depth on both sides of the line.
Quessenberry’s journey in the NFL is notable not only for his on-field contributions but also for his resilience off the field. Diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2014, he missed significant time early in his career but made a remarkable comeback, earning respect across the league for his perseverance. His experience and leadership could prove invaluable in the Rams’ locker room, particularly for a relatively young offensive line group.
Why the Rams Made This Move
The Rams’ decision to sign Quessenberry comes at a critical juncture as they aim to maintain a competitive edge in the NFC West, a division projected to be highly contested in 2025. According to ESPN’s Football Power Index, the Rams are narrowly favored as the top team in their division, but their challenging schedule—including matchups against the Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens, and Detroit Lions—underscores the need for a robust offensive line to protect Stafford, who at 37 remains a cornerstone of the team’s success.
Quessenberry’s signing addresses several key needs for the Rams:
- Depth and Versatility: The Rams’ offensive line has undergone changes in recent years, with the departure of Andrew Whitworth and the integration of younger talent. Quessenberry’s ability to play both tackle positions and even slide inside to guard if needed provides flexibility. This is particularly important given the physical toll of a 17-game NFL season and the potential for injuries.
- Protecting Matthew Stafford: Stafford, who has expressed no interest in participating in the 2028 Olympic flag football event to focus on his NFL career, remains the Rams’ offensive engine. His performance relies heavily on a stable offensive line. Quessenberry’s experience, while not at an All-Pro level, offers reliability in pass protection and run blocking, ensuring Stafford has the time to execute McVay’s complex play designs.
- Supporting a High-Powered Offense: The Rams have made significant offseason moves to enhance their offensive firepower, including the acquisition of wide receiver Davante Adams in free agency. With a receiving corps that includes Adams, and Nacua, the Rams are poised to field one of the league’s most explosive passing attacks. A dependable offensive line is essential to give Stafford the pocket presence needed to exploit these weapons.
- Short-Term Stability: The one-year deal suggests the Rams view Quessenberry as a stopgap solution, providing immediate depth backing up Alaric Jackson and Rob Havenstein.
Impact on the Rams’ 2025 Season
The addition of Quessenberry is unlikely to make headlines as a blockbuster move, but its impact could be significant in the context of the Rams’ broader strategy. The team’s offensive line has been a point of focus in recent years, with injuries and inconsistent play occasionally hampering performance. By adding a player with Quessenberry’s experience, the Rams gain a reliable backup who can step in during critical moments, whether due to injury or to give starters a breather during the grueling season.
Moreover, Quessenberry’s familiarity with high-pressure situations—he played a key role in the Titans’ playoff run in 2019—makes him a valuable asset in a locker room aiming to compete for a Super Bowl. His presence could also serve as a mentor for younger linemen, helping them navigate the complexities of NFL blocking schemes and the physical demands of the position.
Challenges and Considerations
While Quessenberry’s signing is a low-risk move, it is not without challenges. At 34, he is not a long-term solution, and his performance in recent years has been as a rotational player rather than a full-time starter. His 2024 PFF overall grade with the Vikings was modest, reflecting his role as a depth piece rather than a game-changer. The Rams will need to ensure that their starting tackles, such as Rob Havenstein and Alaric Jackson, remain healthy to avoid over-relying on Quessenberry in high-stakes situations.
Additionally, the Rams’ offensive line faces a tough test in 2025, with a schedule that includes formidable defensive fronts. The team’s ability to integrate Quessenberry quickly during OTAs and training camp will be crucial to ensuring he can contribute effectively if called upon.
The Rams have signed veteran David Quessenberry to a 1-year deal, adding some depth at offensive tackle
— Cameron DaSilva (@camdasilva) May 29, 2025
Quessenberry, 34, has played 84 games and made 30 starts since 2017 https://t.co/wzOYmJ4hyn
Fan and Analyst Reactions
Posts on social media reflect a measured but positive sentiment among Rams fans and analysts. The consensus is that Quessenberry’s signing is a pragmatic move, adding depth without significant financial risk. Fans appreciate the team’s focus on bolstering the trenches, a critical area for any team with Super Bowl aspirations. However, some analysts caution that the Rams must continue to invest in younger linemen through the draft to build a sustainable future for the unit.
Wrap Up
The Los Angeles Rams’ signing of David Quessenberry is a calculated step to enhance their offensive line depth as they gear up for the 2025 NFL season. While not a marquee addition, Quessenberry’s experience, versatility, and resilience make him a valuable piece in Sean McVay’s quest to keep the Rams competitive in a stacked NFC West. As the team navigates a challenging schedule and aims to capitalize on their offensive talent, Quessenberry’s role as a reliable backup could prove pivotal in maintaining stability up front. With OTAs underway and training camp on the horizon, all eyes will be on how the Rams integrate this veteran into their system as they chase another Super Bowl title.
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