The Los Angeles Rams are entering a pivotal offseason with a strong focus on their secondary, as five players, including two starters, are set to become free agents. This situation is particularly urgent given the need to bolster their defense through both free agency and the upcoming NFL draft scheduled for April 23-25.
In the last few offseasons, the Rams prioritized their pass rush to prepare for the eventual retirement of Aaron Donald. Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Chris Shula, the Rams” pass rush has been central to the team”s defensive strategy. Although the defense performed admirably at times, particularly late in the 2024 season and early in 2025, it ultimately succumbed to fatigue. This led to missed tackles and coverage breakdowns, allowing opponents to gain significant yardage and points.
With the entire pass rush secured for the 2026 season, the Rams can now shift their attention to enhancing the secondary and linebacker position. This adjustment aims to form a more cohesive defensive unit rather than relying solely on one segment of the defense. The free agency period commences on March 11, presenting the Rams with an opportunity to make crucial upgrades.
Currently, the team retains key defensive players, including outside linebackers Jared Verse and Byron Young, as well as defensive linemen Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske, and Poona Ford. The linebacking corps features Nate Landman and Omar Speights, while the secondary includes Quentin Lake, Kamren Kinchens, and cornerback Emmanuel Forbes. This established group has been developed over the past three years, and optimizing their performance, particularly in quarterback pursuits, will be a primary focus this offseason.
As the Rams look ahead, Turner and Young are eligible for contract extensions, and Coach Sean McVay has shown interest in retaining them. The question remains whether the Rams will finalize deals this offseason or delay negotiations until 2027.
Five players are set to enter unrestricted free agency: safety Kamren Curl, cornerbacks Cobie Durant, Roger McCreary, Ahkello Witherspoon, and linebacker Troy Reeder. Additionally, restricted free agents include outside linebackers Keir Thomas and Nick Hampton. The impending changes in the secondary could be significant, especially considering the potential release of veteran Williams, which could free up $7.5 million in cap space for the 2026 season.
Projected cap space for the Rams in 2026 is approximately $48.2 million, with total commitments reaching $269.4 million, of which $74.9 million is allocated to the defense. The most challenging decision lies within the secondary, where Curl and Durant, both free agents, will require careful consideration. While Durant has demonstrated potential, he has not yet filled the void left by Jalen Ramsey“s departure three years ago. Curl, having performed well on a cost-effective deal, is likely seeking a more lucrative contract following a successful 2025 season.
The Rams have a history of limited investment in their secondary, but they recently extended Lake”s contract, raising questions about potential extensions for Curl or Durant. They may also explore free agency for safety or cornerback upgrades without overspending, similar to previous strategies.
With a need for cornerbacks, the Rams might look internally for replacements, especially if they release Williams, which would leave Forbes as the sole outside corner on the roster. The Rams could adopt a similar approach to their past drafts, targeting multiple cornerbacks with their two first-round picks and additional selections in the second and third rounds.
As the offseason progresses, the Rams must also evaluate their inside linebacker position. While Landman has solidified his role, Speights faced challenges during the postseason, particularly in coverage against the Seattle Seahawks” running back Kenneth Walker during the NFC championship game.
