Monty Rice is no longer part of the Los Angeles Rams, having been released during the team's final roster decisions on August 30, 2026. This move illustrates that previous success in college does not ensure a spot in the NFL. Rice, who recorded 131 total tackles over 42 college games, faced challenges competing at the professional level.
The Rams made the decision to part ways with Rice shortly after he joined the team on August 13. He played in all three preseason games, where he accumulated seven tackles and allowed a passer rating of 64.6. However, his performance was hindered by a Pro Football Focus grade of 52.7, which reflected missed tackles and limited stops.
These factors contributed to his release as the Rams completed their roster at 53 players.
Rice's NFL career has been inconsistent, having previously been with the Tennessee Titans, New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, New England Patriots, and Detroit Lions, without securing a long-term role. His time with the Titans included 128 tackles and five tackles for loss over three seasons, along with first-team All-SEC honors in 2020 from the University of Georgia.
Despite being a second-team All-American, Rice has struggled to maintain the consistency needed for success in the NFL.