The Los Angeles Rams wrapped up the 2023 NFL season with a respectable 10-7 record, securing a playoff berth for the third time in four years. Despite their regular-season success, their playoff run was cut short in the Wild Card round, losing a nail-biter to the Detroit Lions, 24-23. What initially seemed like another tough playoff loss became a significant turning point for the Rams, marking the final game in the illustrious career of future Hall of Famer, Aaron Donald.
The offseason presented a daunting challenge for the Rams. They weren’t just tasked with replacing a seasoned veteran; they were faced with the monumental task of filling the void left by one of the most dominant defensive forces in NFL history.
Aaron Donald in Rams uniform
While acknowledging the significant loss of Donald, the Rams had what many considered a solid offseason. However, as we delve into the 2024 season, one glaring weakness stands out: the secondary. Despite this area of concern, the Rams’ roster remains intriguing, boasting a wealth of talent that could make them a surprise contender.
This begs the question: how far can the Rams go in 2024? Can they overcome their defensive vulnerabilities and make a deep playoff run? Let’s break it down.
The Aaron Donald Effect and the Defensive Line’s Uncertain Future
The impact of Aaron Donald’s retirement cannot be overstated. His absence leaves a void that no single player can fill. Recognizing this, the Rams’ front office, led by GM Les Snead, made strategic moves to mitigate the loss. Their 2023 draft class was particularly promising, with standout defensive linemen Byron Young and Kobe Turner making their presence felt in their rookie year.
Turner, in particular, exceeded expectations, recording an impressive 48 pressures, good for 17th among interior defensive linemen. He consistently demonstrated his potential, even finishing just one pressure behind the ninth overall pick, Jaylen Carter. Young wasn’t far behind, accumulating 50 pressures, a testament to the Rams’ drafting prowess.
Further bolstering their defensive line, the Rams secured the services of one of the draft’s most coveted prospects, Florida State’s Jared Verse. Snead and head coach Sean McVay deserve credit for recognizing the need to address the defensive line early and often in the draft.
Jared Verse playing for Florida State
While these young players have shown immense promise, the question remains: can they consistently perform at a high level without Donald’s presence? The Rams are banking on a collective effort to compensate for the loss of their defensive anchor.
A Secondary Plagued by Uncertainty
The most pressing concern for the Rams heading into the 2024 season is the state of their secondary. While the defensive line has the potential to be a force, the same cannot be said for the back end of their defense.
The cornerback position, in particular, raises serious red flags. The Rams are putting their faith in a combination of aging veterans and unproven players, a risky gamble in a league dominated by high-powered passing offenses.
Travius White, set to turn 30 in January, is attempting a comeback after playing just 10 games over the past two seasons combined. After suffering a torn ACL in 2021 and a torn Achilles last year, expecting White to regain his Pro Bowl form is a long shot.
Opposite White is 31-year-old Darius Williams, returning to Los Angeles after a stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars. While Williams is coming off a solid season, his age and the Rams’ challenging divisional opponents present a daunting task.
Darius Williams in Jaguars uniform
The NFC West boasts a formidable collection of receivers, including DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, Deebo Samuel, and the newly drafted Marvin Harrison Jr. Each of these receivers presents unique challenges for the Rams’ secondary, with their size and physicality posing a significant mismatch for the Rams’ cornerbacks.
The signing of safety Jordan Fuller from the Carolina Panthers was a step in the right direction. Still, the Rams’ secondary remains a liability heading into the season. Their ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks will be paramount to masking their deficiencies in coverage.
An Explosive Offense Poised for Another Strong Season
Despite the concerns surrounding their defense, the Rams’ offense has the potential to be one of the league’s most dynamic units. With a healthy Matthew Stafford under center, the Rams possess the firepower to compete with any team in the NFL.
Cooper Kupp, a constant threat in the passing game, returns for another season, providing Stafford with a reliable target. However, the X-factor for the Rams’ offense is the return of wide receiver Van Jefferson and the continued development of tight end Tyler Higbee.
Cooper Kupp celebrating a touchdown
The backfield also received a boost with the addition of rookie Zach Evans, joining a talented group that includes Cam Dicker and Kyren Williams. The Rams’ commitment to the run game will be crucial to their success, taking pressure off Stafford and allowing their offense to operate with greater efficiency.
The 2024 Outlook: Playoffs or Bust?
The Rams enter the 2024 season facing a critical juncture. With a roster teeming with both proven veterans and promising young talent, they have the potential to compete for a playoff spot. However, their glaring weakness in the secondary could ultimately determine their fate.
A fast start is essential for the Rams, especially with a challenging schedule that features early matchups against the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, and Cincinnati Bengals. Navigating the treacherous NFC West will be a tall order for a team with question marks on defense.
The Rams’ success hinges on their ability to overcome their defensive vulnerabilities. If their young defensive linemen can replicate their rookie-year performance, and their secondary can exceed expectations, the Rams have the potential to make a deep playoff run. However, if their defense falters, the Rams could find themselves on the outside looking in.
