As the Los Angeles Rams gear up for the 2025 season, expectations are sky-high. After making a deep playoff run last year, they're shouldering the hopes of challenging NFC powerhouses like the Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions for prominence.
While the Rams' roster is brimming with talent cultivated over recent years, the road to NFL supremacy is never without its potholes. Let's zoom in on three areas that might trip them up this season.
First up, the team's choice to bring back Tutu Atwell on a one-year deal for slot receiver duties. Now, Atwell's electric play style promises plenty of excitement, but relying on someone with his build as the starting slot in an offense heavy on 11 personnel could be a gamble.
Sure, rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson might slot in here occasionally, providing a bigger target, but ideally, the Rams need a sturdier solution down the line. Keeping an eye on someone like Hunter Renfrow, should he become available, could be a savvy move to bolster this spot.
Moving over to the defensive side, the Rams have traditionally looked to late draft picks and undrafted free agents to address their needs, particularly at linebacker. Players like Omar Speights and Shaun Dolac may get their chance to shine, joining fifth-round pick Chris Paul in the battle for snaps.
While veterans such as Troy Reeder and Nate Landman are in the mix, there's no denying the Rams are missing that transformative playmaker in this group—a definitive leader to solidify the defense. Here's betting on some of the younger players making a substantial impact by season's end.
Then there's the offensive line, often the backbone of any successful NFL team. The Rams' front line features notable names like a youthful Steve Avila anchoring the left guard position and seasoned pro Rob Havenstein taking charge at right tackle.
Together, they present a formidable unit. However, beyond these starters, the depth chart starts to thin out, which is where concern creeps in.
The addition of David Quessenberry and Beaux Limmer, entering his second year, adds some reinforcements, but was it enough? Surprisingly, the Rams bypassed selecting an offensive lineman in the draft—a decision that might just haunt them should injury strike.
In summary, while the Los Angeles Rams are stocked with potential and are primed for another thrilling season, attention to these possible vulnerabilities could be the key to maintaining their edge against the conference heavyweights. The Rams have set their sights on the NFC crown, but shoring up these areas will be crucial to their campaign.
