McVay Signals More Playing Time Ahead for Rams Rookie CJ Daniels

Published November 3, 2026. Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay said Monday that rookie wide receiver CJ Daniels is in line for increased opportunities, though Daniels has seen little action during the regular season so far.

Daniels was inactive for the Rams’ first six games and has played only five offensive snaps across the past two. He stood out during training camp and the preseason, where he averaged 0.36 targets per route run, ranking 15th among wide receivers, and made contested catches on three chances.

The Rams have struggled to get production from their reserve receivers, and Davante Adams is out. Daniels offers more size than Tutu Atwell and Konata Mumpfield, and could fill the outside “X” receiver role. He has shown an ability to make catches over the middle as well as provide a larger target outside the numbers.

McVay’s comments come after tight end Max Klare received a larger role against the Chargers with Colby Parkinson unavailable. Klare played 25 snaps, including 20 after halftime, as the Rams used more three-tight-end formations. The account of his performance noted that he ranked 12th among tight ends in run blocking in Week 8.

Daniels is not expected to replace Adams or fix the passing game by himself. But the Rams may have reason to test whether his preseason form can carry into regular-season play, particularly given Mumpfield’s numbers: minus-0.32 expected points added per target and a 38.1% targeted success rate. No trade plans for another receiver were specified.