Los Angeles, CA — One of the NFL’s most respected linemen and a true legend of the game, Andrew Whitworth, is officially making his return to the Los Angeles Rams — but not in pads this time.
In a historic and unexpected announcement, the Rams have confirmed that Andrew Whitworth is joining the team’s ownership group as a minority co-owner, marking a groundbreaking moment in franchise history and across the league. Whitworth becomes one of the few former players to step directly into team ownership in the modern NFL era.
“He protected the greats — and now the NFL honors him,” said Rams President Kevin Demoff during the official announcement. “There’s no one better to help lead this organization into its next chapter than Big Whit.”
🏆 Legacy of Greatness
Andrew Whitworth spent 16 seasons in the NFL, including five with the Rams, where he became a cornerstone of their offensive line. Known for his elite pass protection, leadership, and relentless work ethic, Whitworth was the man tasked with protecting elite quarterbacks like Matthew Stafford during their Super Bowl LVI victory.
A 4× Pro Bowler, 2× All-Pro, and 2021 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, Whitworth was beloved both in the locker room and throughout the Los Angeles community.
Since retiring, Whitworth has remained active as an NFL analyst on Amazon Prime’s Thursday Night Football, and with multiple charitable ventures supporting underprivileged families, education, and veterans.
⚡ Shocking Return — Why Now?
Sources close to the team say Whitworth’s leadership and deep understanding of the game made him an ideal partner for the Rams’ ownership group. With the NFL pushing for greater diversity and inclusion within its ownership ranks, Whitworth’s addition represents both a football-smart and socially progressive move.
Whitworth speaking on the return:
“Football gave me everything. I bled for this team, this city. Now it’s time to help lead it from a different seat. This is for my family, for the community, and for the next generation of Rams fans. Let’s build.”
🔔 NFL Honors
At the upcoming NFL Honors ceremony, the league is expected to formally recognize Whitworth’s contributions not just as a player, but now as a trailblazer in ownership — a move many believe could inspire more retired players to seek leadership and equity roles within the sport they helped build.
📊 What It Means for the Rams
•Influence on Player Development: Expect Whitworth to play a key role in shaping player mentorship programs and community outreach.
•Locker Room Legacy: Current Rams players like Cooper Kupp and Aaron Donald have already publicly praised the move, calling Whitworth’s return “legendary.”
•Potential Ownership Era Shift: With younger, football-savvy leaders like Whitworth stepping into ownership roles, the NFL’s leadership dynamic is evolving before our eyes.
SUMMARY:
👉 Andrew Whitworth, NFL great and Super Bowl-winning offensive lineman, returns to the Rams as a minority co-owner, marking a powerful next chapter in both his life and the franchise’s future. “He protected the greats — now he helps lead the next ones.”
More to follow.