The season saw the Rams attempting to improve on their 6–10 record from 1981, a result that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 1972.

After the conclusion of the strike, the Rams finally got a win at home over the Kansas City Chiefs.

However, during this game, quarterback Bert Jones was lost for the season after suffering a neck injury that ultimately led to his retirement.

As a result, head coach Ray Malavasi was fired after the season and replaced by John Robinson for 1983.

[1] The Rams signed free-agent and oft-injured QB Bert Jones from the Baltimore Colts.