Los Angeles Rams 22.2 PPG 18th, Sacks: 41 Tied 23rd

The 2023 Los Angeles Rams had higher expectations than finishing in the back half in both points per game and sacks. However that was the case, allowing 22.2 ppg and only recording 41 sacks… even with Aaron Donald.

Despite one of the greatest IDPs of all-time on the roster and Raheem Morris calling shots, the defense could not be consistent all year. Although 10-7 is a goal and good record for most NFL teams, the defense laced pass rush in crucial moments. 

2024 Prediction: 21st

The Rams will have to accept life without one of the best players to ever put on the pads, Aaron Donald. Defensive Player of the Year winners are special, particularly three time winners. Yet there are still special IDPs on their roster but as a whole they could take a step backwards.

They are in a division (NFC West) in which every team will be as good or better offensively than they were in 2023. They will be learning new communication, coaches, and personnel on their defense. It could be a rougher start than anticipated for the Rams faithful, and the worst defensive year they have seen this decade.

BEST FF IDPs: In Order of Ranking

LB Ernest Jones IV
DB Kamren Curl

DB John Johnson III

Ernest Jones IV is one of the most underrated IDP in the NFL, but he won’t be for long. He is the Los Angeles Rams single season record holder for tackles, 145 to be exact. He earned those numbers last year, and some may claim that was because of Aaron Donald, but not this writer.

74 of those tackles were solo tackles, and he also managed 4.5 sacks and 6 passes defended. He is more than just a tackling machine, and this is one reason why he is the captain of the Rams defense.

Another reason is he’s simply a great football player, with a high football IQ. Was playing behind A. Donald a blessing? Of course. Jones is still capable of 140 or more tackles with Donald though, and the other playmaking skills help boost what is already a very high floor. A true three down linebacker with capabilities of being a top five linebacker at season’s end is always worth a draft pick, even if you do reach a little

Kamren Curl has an opportunity to start over, from one side of the country to the other. The former Commander finds himself on the best team of his career and he will be asked to deliver as the Rams starting strong safety. 

Defensive Coordinator will have Kamren Curl all across the defense and he should have several opportunities to have impact plays. This bodes well for big spike games as Curl is a great tackler. He played in 16 games last season and amassed 115 tackles, outstanding for a defensive back.

He will likely be the second leading tackler behind Jones IV, and each should tally over 100 tackles a piece. The defense is designed to funnel to the middle linebacker and strong safety so grab Curl late and know you have an excellent defender on your roster.

John Johnson III is on his second stint with the Rams and this year he will be asked to start all 17 games. Johnson III was drafted by the Rams in 2017, and after a two year stint with the Cleveland Browns, he is back with the Rams at free safety. 

Johnson III played all 17 games for the Rams last season but only started 8. That should not be the case this year as 2023 seventh round pick Jason Taylor II is not much of a threat to overtake Johnson’s playing time.

It was difficult finding a defensive linemen that was worth rostering, but truthfully the Rams third best defensive player could be 2024 first round pick Jared Verse… but he is a rookie. Johnson III seems like the safer play but he is only worth a last round pick to help your DB room.

Tomorrow the Chicago Bears.
Thank you for reading, please leave any feedback here or on my X account @IDP_Iggy

Bet Smart, Be Lucky – Iggy

All statistics come from pro-football-reference and Sleeperbot.