LA Rams make huge coaching decision as rising star, 35, is given surprise promotion for 2026 season

The Los Angeles Rams are promoting passing-game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase to the offensive coordinator position, according to multiple reports.

Scheelhaase was one of the brightest young stars in this year’s NFL coaching carousel after interviewing for five head coaching positions.

However, after being passed over for each of those jobs, he has now been promoted to the top offensive job within one of the league’s best organizations.

Scheelhaase’s passing game last season was a revelation – with the Rams leading the league in both yards per game and passing yards per game.

He also helped 38-year-old quarterback Matthew Stafford win the 2025 NFL MVP Award.

Scheelhaase’s promotion comes after the Rams’ former offensive coordinator, Mike LaFleur, was hired as the head coach of the division rival Arizona Cardinals. 

Before the Rams, Scheelhaase was a star quarterback at the University of Illinois across four seasons.

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