Why Former Rams Champion Is Facing End of Road

Former Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Robert Woods asked for and was granted his release on Tuesday

Jan 5, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Robert Woods (2) makes a catch over the middle against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images | Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Very few players have had a bigger impact on establishing the Rams as a perennial force in the McVay era outside of Robert Woods. The former USC superstar and first-round pick had a tough run in Buffalo before finding his stride when he came back to Los Angeles, putting in five straight seasons of big-time performances, doing his part to secure three NFC West titles, two NFC titles, and Super Bowl LVI.

The Situation

Woods, who signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason, failed to make the 53-man roster and was subsequently signed to the practice squad. According to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport, Woods was not happy with the situation and did something about it.

Jul 23, 2025; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Robert Woods talks with the media at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images | Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

"Steelers WR Robert Woods asked for and was granted his release from Steelers practice squad, and a source says he only wants to continue playing if he’s on a 53-man roster and playing," stated Rapoport. "The Steelers handled the request solidly and understood."

The Los Angeles Rams

If there was any pathway for a second return to Los Angeles, it would have to start with Woods being willing to join the Rams' practice squad. The Rams currently have no room on their 53-man roster and have made it clear that they already had to make tough decisions regarding who to keep and they don't wish to make any more unless necessary.

Feb 16, 2022; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams receiver Robert Woods holds the Vince Lombardi trophy during Super Bowl LVI championship rally at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Rams also do not need Woods as they already have six receivers on the roster, with only Tutu Atwell playing on a deal that expires after this season.

The Reality

The reality of the situation is this. Receivers who leave the Rams typically do not do much with the rest of their career and while Cooper Kupp appears to be in position to buck that trend, the fact that since 2021, not only has the production not been there for Woods, the stability of playing for one team hasn't been either.

Aug 9, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Tyson Campbell (3) goes to tackle Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Robert Woods (16) during the first quarter at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images | Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images

This is a pivotal point in Woods' career because his next move could be the last one he ever makes in the NFL, if he even gets an opportunity to make one. Odell Beckham Jr asked for his release from Miami last season, got it and hasn't signed with a team since. DeSean Jackson asked for his release, joined the Raiders, wasn't good, and is now coaching.

That's the reality Woods currently resides in.

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