Rams’ Strategic Coaching Moves: A Deep Dive into McVay’s Innovative Approach
The Los Angeles Rams are once again making waves with their coaching strategy, adding Brian Johnson as a senior offensive assistant. But here's the twist: Johnson will be working under the defensive staff. This move is a classic Sean McVay play, bringing in high-level thinkers from the opposite side of the ball to challenge and refine the team’s strategies.
The McVay Method: Cross-Pollination in Coaching
This isn’t a first for McVay. Back in 2024, he brought in Sean Desai, the former defensive coordinator for the Eagles, not to lead a unit, but to enhance the Rams’ internal processes.
Desai’s influence was felt across the board, helping the Rams improve their defensive metrics significantly in the latter half of the season. The Rams turned a shaky 4-5 start into a 10-7 finish, clinching the NFC West title.
Desai’s input wasn’t limited to defense. He also contributed to the offensive strategies, helping the Rams rank 10th in net passing yards per game. This cross-disciplinary approach has effectively turned the Rams’ coaching staff into a think tank, and Johnson’s hiring signals a continuation of this successful strategy.
Brian Johnson: The Offensive Mind with Defensive Insights
Johnson’s stint with the Eagles in 2023 was met with some external criticism, but the numbers tell a different story. The Eagles ranked 8th in points per game and 9th in yards per game, with a top-10 finish in several key metrics like success rate and EPA per play. Importantly, this wasn’t just a product of talent; it was a testament to Johnson’s strategic acumen.
His offensive system, rich with run-pass options (RPOs) and play-action, is precisely the kind of scheme that troubled the Rams’ defense last season. Johnson’s experience with these offensive elements makes him an invaluable asset in identifying and addressing the Rams’ defensive vulnerabilities.
Addressing the Rams’ Defensive Challenges
Last season, the Rams struggled significantly against play-action, allowing a +0.246 EPA per play. Their defense also faltered against RPOs, with opponents completing 80% of passes in these situations. Johnson’s expertise in crafting offenses that exploit these very weaknesses makes him an ideal candidate to help the Rams shore up these areas.
Additionally, the Rams’ defense allowed substantial yards after contact, reflecting issues with discipline and execution. Johnson’s offensive background can provide insights into these defensive lapses, turning potential weaknesses into strengths.
The Bigger Picture: McVay’s Vision
McVay’s strategy is clear: bring in outside voices to self-scout and provide fresh perspectives. Desai’s role in 2024 stabilized the defense, and now Johnson’s offensive insights aim to sharpen the Rams’ defensive anticipation. This isn’t just about adding plays; it’s about enhancing clarity and understanding.
By embedding former coordinators like Johnson into the coaching staff, McVay is importing strategic intelligence without disrupting the existing hierarchy. This approach not only strengthens the team but also provides a competitive edge in the ever-evolving NFL landscape.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With Johnson’s input, the Rams are poised to refine their defensive strategies, making them more resilient and adaptive. As the team works to contend while reshaping its roster, these marginal gains could be crucial. In the modern NFL, innovation often comes from within, and the Rams are betting that seeing their own systems through the eyes of a former adversary will pay dividends.
Once again, McVay is proving that in football, perspective is everything.