Coleman Shelton’s arrival doesn’t mean Limmer’s time in LA is coming to an end
After things went south with Jonah Jackson last season, the Los Angeles Rams turned to sixth-round rookie Beaux Limmer. He played well, given the circumstances, but some struggles in the postseason led the Rams to make a change this offseason.
They signed Coleman Shelton to a two-year deal worth $12 million, bringing him back to be their starting center once again. Despite Limmer doing an admirable job as a wide-eyed rookie, the Rams wanted to upgrade a critical position by bringing in a more experienced player like Shelton.
On Wednesday, Sean McVay made one thing very clear: Limmer is still part of Los Angeles’ long-term plans. Whether that’s at center or guard, McVay has “so much confidence” in what Limmer will be for the Rams “down the line.”
“I have so much confidence in what Beaux Limmer’s going to be for our football team down the line,” he said. “I think for him to be able to see how Coleman runs the show will only make him better and he’ll get a chance to be able to play some guard as well.”
A team can never have too many talented offensive linemen, especially at an important spot like center. The Rams are fortunate to have two starting-caliber players in Shelton and Limmer, both of whom can play center or guard.
Limmer is still only 24 years old, 5 years younger than the 29-year-old Shelton. And with Shelton’s contract coming with a potential out after this season, the Rams could potentially move on next offseason and turn back to Limmer when he’s ready to start again.
Or, if Los Angeles rides out Shelton’s contract through 2026, Limmer will still be signed through 2027, so he’ll have an opportunity to start again two years from now.
For the time being, McVay is excited to have Shelton back in the mix.
“It’s huge. The command, the communication, that’s just such an important part. You’ve heard us talk about it before, that rapport between the center and the quarterback, and you know how that echoes from inside out. You hear our guards communicating more. I think it’ll be great,” McVay said of Shelton. “I love Coleman and it was great to be able to get him back in general throughout the spring, and he picked up where he left off, and we look forward to getting the pads on. But he’s a stud and he represents everything that we’re looking for.”