Rams’ Linebacker Options Are Becoming Limited
The Los Angeles Rams’ defense had a strong performance last season, but the linebacker position remains a key area of focus for improvement this offseason, with top players already signing elsewhere.
Coming off a successful season, the Rams showed that their young defense is poised to be a force in the coming years. The offense proved it could still win games, even in unconventional ways, and with head coach Sean McVay at the helm, the Rams will always have a shot.
If they maintain their current roster and add a few key pieces, the Rams could easily position themselves as Super Bowl contenders next season.
The defense played a major role in the team’s success last year, helping them stay competitive and ultimately secure the division title in 2024. Their strong performance also extended into the playoffs.
Much of their defensive success was due to their dominant defensive line and pass rush, which allowed defensive coordinator Chris Shula to rely on just four rushers while still putting pressure on the quarterback.
Free agent options at linebacker are dwindling quickly:
◽️ Zack Baun — 3 YR, $51M with PHI
◽️ Nick Bolton — 3 YR, $45M with KC
◽️ Bobby Wagner — 1 YR, $8M with WSH
◽️ Lavonte David — 1 YR, $10M with TB pic.twitter.com/bABLgtxiUx— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) March 9, 2025
However, the linebacker position was a weakness throughout the season, particularly in stopping the run up the middle. As the Rams evaluate ways to improve their roster, addressing this position is now a top priority.
The Rams will need to act quickly in free agency if they want to secure a linebacker, as many of the top names have already signed deals:
- Bobby Wagner returned to the Washington Commanders.
- Nick Bolton re-signed with the Kansas City Chiefs.
- Lavonte David signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- Ernest Jones IV stayed with the Seattle Seahawks on a new contract.
- Zack Baun, the All-Pro linebacker, signed with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The available free agent linebacker options are rapidly shrinking:
- Zack Baun – 3 years, $51M with PHI
- Nick Bolton – 3 years, $45M with KC
- Bobby Wagner – 1 year, $8M with WSH
- Lavonte David – 1 year, $10M with TB
The Rams still have the 2025 NFL Draft to target a linebacker if they miss out on free agency options. As free agency kicks off this week, we’ll see what moves the Rams make to address this pressing need.
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