Rams Sign Former Eagles Defender in Latest Roster Move

Roster changes are a regular part of life in the NFL, but the Los Angeles Rams were forced to make an adjustment to their cornerback group after waiving Drey Norwood with an injury designation. The team has filled the opening by signing veteran cornerback Zech McPhearson.

McPhearson is entering his sixth NFL season after beginning his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. He has also spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars and will now have an opportunity to make the Rams his third NFL team.

Rams Add Former Eagles CB Zech McPhearson

The Rams’ signing of McPhearson was reported by KPRC 2 NFL insider Aaron Wilson in a post on X on August 9.

McPhearson, 28, was selected by Philadelphia with the 123rd overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He has appeared in 33 regular-season games, making one start during that span. His career statistics include 33 tackles, two pass deflections and one sack.

During his first two seasons with the Eagles, McPhearson established himself as a valuable special teams contributor. However, he has not played in a regular-season game since 2022. He continued to see action in preseason games with Philadelphia through 2024 before joining Jacksonville in 2025.

McPhearson was considered a potential mid-to-late-round selection coming out of college. NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein projected him as a fifth-round pick and praised his potential as a special teams contributor.

Zierlein also pointed to McPhearson’s physical approach in coverage and run support, along with his ball skills and competitiveness. However, concerns surrounding his anticipation, instincts and ability to compete on jump balls were also noted. His versatility and willingness to compete were viewed as qualities that could allow him to contribute both inside and outside while earning special teams opportunities.

Now, McPhearson joins a significantly revamped Rams cornerback unit.

Rams Have Plenty of Talent at Cornerback

McPhearson could potentially become the final addition to a deep Rams cornerback room. Los Angeles strengthened the position this offseason by bringing in Super Bowl champions Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson.

The revamped secondary has already attracted attention during training camp. The Athletic’s Nate Atkins described the changes in the Rams’ defensive backfield as the biggest difference for the defense, noting how effectively the group has competed against Los Angeles’ explosive offense.

Atkins specifically praised McDuffie and Watson for their physicality against perimeter runs and their ability to match up with talented receivers such as Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.

McDuffie, in particular, has been viewed as a major addition to the Rams. His ability to read offenses before the snap, line up in different positions and make plays in coverage has given Los Angeles a significant boost at a position that was a weakness for the team last season. His communication skills, leadership and championship experience only add to his value.

For McPhearson, the next challenge will be proving that he can become a dependable option behind McDuffie, Watson and Emmanuel Forbes. With his experience and versatility, he has a chance to earn a spot on the Rams’ 53-man roster if he can demonstrate that he is ready to contribute.