Los Angeles Rams’ 2023 season: 10-7, lost in wild card
Overview: After whispers of retirement last offseason, Sean McVay led the Rams to a bounce-back season and playoff berth, revitalizing the franchise’s prospects of competing for a championship again in the near future. Matthew Stafford surged back among the league’s top 10 quarterbacks (in QBR, success rate and adjusted net yards per attempt, among other things), Puka Nacua set rookie records with 105 receptions and 1,486 receiving yards, and Aaron Donald had another All-Pro season anchoring the defense.
Perhaps just as importantly, Los Angeles hit on a number of draft picks, including a pair of standout 2023 third-rounders in linebacker Byron Young and nose tackle Kobie Turner. And the Rams, infamously team “f*** them picks,” are actually on track to make a first-round draft selection this spring for the first time since 2016. Don’t tempt general manager Les Snead, though.
(Taylor Wilhelm/Yahoo Sports)
Key free agents
G Kevin Dotson
QB Carson Wentz
CB Ahkello Witherspoon
S John Johnson III
WR Demarcus Robinson
Who’s in/out: Dotson is the name to watch here. The Rams traded for him late last August and he finished the season as Pro Football Focus’ No. 2-graded guard. Dotson is only 27 and will likely be costly to bring back, but there’s no denying he’s a key piece of keeping Matthew Stafford upright and the Rams’ offense humming.
It was a good 2023 for Sean McVay, Matthew Stafford and the Rams. Now they turn their attention toward the offseason. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
Key free-agent needs
Edge rusher
Cornerback
Offensive line
Why the holes? As promising as last season was, the Rams’ defense did trend toward the bottom quarter of the league in total EPA and pressure rate, so an edge rusher to go along with Aaron Donald and Kobie Turner on the interior would be a wise investment. Los Angeles also needs to improve its cornerback room, and the offensive line could see a couple of cap casualties.
Do…
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Author : Yahoo Sports
Publish date : 2024-02-23 01:46:27
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