The Los Angeles Rams' use of 13-personnel offensive sets may drive a league-wide trend toward tight-end-heavy schemes during the 2026 NFL season.
This tactical shift matters because the Rams achieved historic levels of efficiency in 2025, suggesting that traditional offensive personnel groupings may no longer be the most effective way to move the ball.
Thirteen personnel refers to a formation utilizing one running back and three tight ends. The Rams found significant success with these sets during the 2025 season [1]. This approach allowed the team to maximize their expected points added (EPA) per play, a metric used to measure offensive efficiency.
Data indicates the Rams' efficiency with these sets rivaled some of the most dominant offenses in league history [2]. For comparison, the 2007 New England Patriots averaged 0.24 EPA per play [2]. According to the data, only the 2018 Kansas City Chiefs and the 2020 Green Bay Packers have averaged comparable EPA per snap since 2017 [2].
The success of the Rams' scheme has prompted speculation that other NFL teams will attempt to replicate the model. By incorporating more tight ends, offenses can create mismatches against linebackers while maintaining the ability to block for the run, a versatility that is becoming increasingly valuable in the modern game.
League analysts said the 2026 draft and free agency periods may reflect this trend as teams seek "jumbo" athletes capable of playing multiple roles in these heavy sets [1]. While the Rams have been the primary innovators of this specific 13-personnel surge, the statistical output from 2025 provides a blueprint for other coaches looking to improve their scoring potential.
“The Rams' efficiency with these sets rivaled some of the most dominant offenses in league history.”
The potential adoption of 13-personnel across the NFL signals a move away from the wide-receiver-dominant 'spread' era. If more teams prioritize three-tight-end sets to achieve the EPA levels seen by the 2025 Rams, it will likely change the valuation of hybrid players in the draft and force defensive coordinators to prioritize more versatile, heavier defensive backs and linebackers.
