The Los Angeles Rams entered the 2026 NFL season with high expectations, but things have gone off the rails pretty quickly. After a disappointing 16-18 loss to the Arizona Cardinals in Week 6, the Rams fell to 2-4, bottom of the NFC West.
Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden believes the team’s season-opening trip to Australia could be one reason behind its poor form. The Rams traveled halfway around the world to face the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, and Gruden thinks the journey may have taken a bigger toll than expected.
Jon Gruden Questions Rams’ Condition After Australia Trip
The Rams made several major moves during the offseason to build a team capable of competing for a Super Bowl. They traded for defensive end Myles Garrett and cornerback Trent McDuffie, while veteran defensive tackle Aaron Donald came out of retirement to add reinforcements.
However, injuries have made it difficult for the team to live up to those expectations.
Garrett underwent surgery in mid-September after the season opener, and the franchise is yet to open his 21-day practice window. McDuffie is also dealing with a groin injury.
Speaking on the “Gruden Family Football Show,” Gruden questioned whether the Rams are as strong as many expected. “The Rams are not as good as you think they are. Myles Garrett is not even playing, Trent McDuffie’s hurt, he may not even play. I think that trip to Australia has just worn this team out, honestly,” Gruden said.
The Rams’ decision to arrive in Melbourne just 28 to 29 hours before kickoff drew a lot of scrutiny before and after the loss. The 49ers, meanwhile, arrived a week early to adjust to the 17-hour time difference.
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Sean McVay’s team hoped to limit jet lag by staying on Pacific Time, but the Rams suffered a 27-7 defeat. After failing to convert a crucial fourth-down quarterback sneak in the third quarter, their defense gave up a 99-yard touchdown drive.
McVay later expressed his frustration with the trip, saying, “We’re not playing in Australia ever again, I hope.”
While travel fatigue remains one possible explanation for the team’s struggles, injuries and inconsistent performances have also contributed to its disappointing start.
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Sports analyst Kayce Smith echoed Gruden’s assessment, saying, “It just ruined them… I mean, Matt Stafford has 6 interceptions in 6 games. Last year he had 8 through 17 games. That’s not good.”
Stafford’s turnover numbers have become a concern for a team that expected its veteran quarterback to lead a Super Bowl run.
The Rams’ PFN Offense Impact Score stands at 73.7, while their Defense Impact Score is 77.4 through six weeks.
The Rams have little room for further setbacks if they want to remain in the playoff race. Their next matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 7 offers an opportunity to respond.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.