5 Rams players to watch vs. Cowboys in preseason Week 1

The Los Angeles Rams are back in action Saturday when they host the Dallas Cowboys for their preseason opener at SoFi Stadium at 7 p.m. ET. As always, the majority of the Rams' starters are not expected to see any playing time. Instead, it will be an opportunity for those fighting for a place on the final 53 to showcase and make an early impression.

Here are five Rams players to watch during Saturday night's exhibition with the Cowboys.

OLB Brennan Jackson

A soft tissue injury put a dent in Brennan Jackson's play time last preseason and he appeared in just seven games, as a rookie playing 47 snaps on defense. A year later, he is healthy and eager to showcase his abilities. A high-motor player with physical hands and a knack for chasing plays, Jackson has the kind of skill set that pops in preseason games. The second-year linebacker should see plenty of snaps against Dallas' second and third offensive line units, allowing him to show he can disrupt the run game, force turnovers, and pressure the quarterback.

OL Warren McClendon

McClendon’s value lies in his versatility, and Saturday will give him a chance to show it. The third-year lineman has the ability to work both tackle spots, and matching up against Dallas’ deep pass rush will be a good test of his footwork and strength. These are the kinds of snaps that can cement a role as the swing tackle, as well as provide the Rams with enough options at left tackle with starter Alaric Jackson still out due to blood clots and veteran D. J. Humphries slated to fill in.

WR Konata Mumpfield

A crisp route runner with reliable hands, Mumpfield has been quietly making plays throughout camp and earning high praise from head coach Sean McVay, WR Davante Adams, and OC Mike LaFleur. The rookie’s biggest challenge now is showing he can create separation against NFL defensive backs when the speed ramps up. If he can find chemistry early on and make a couple of chain-moving catches, it’ll turn some heads.

RB Jarquez Hunter

Hunter’s ability to run through tackles and embrace contact is what stood out about him at Auburn. Now, the real test is whether he can bring that ability to the next level against pro-level defenders. With the backfield still sorting out depth behind Kyren Williams, and a battle with Blake Corum for the No. 2 spot, Hunter will have a chance to earn reps not just with his runs, but by showing he can handle pass protection and contribute on special teams.

QB Stetson Bennett

After spending all of last season as the Rams' No. 3 option, Bennett gets his chance to run the offense under the lights again and has been doing so in camp with more opportunities with Matthew Stafford (back) sidelined. Expect him to face a heavy workload as the team assesses the progress of his command, decision-making, and pocket presence. For Bennett, this is more than just a preseason game; it's a step toward proving he can be a trusted option if ever called upon.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams vs. Cowboys: 5 players to watch in NFL preseason Week 1