The Los Angeles Rams experienced a significant improvement in their performance in the 2023 season, bouncing back from a five-win season to double their win total and secure a playoff berth.
The team benefited from the mostly healthy presence of quarterback Matthew Stafford, who played a key role in their resurgence. Additionally, the Rams had a successful draft class, with players like Puka Nacua, Steve Avila, Byron Young, and Kobie Turner making notable impacts on the team.
Despite the retirement of Aaron Donald, a future Hall of Famer and a significant loss for the defense, the Rams remain in a strong position. They have a top-tier head coach in Sean McVay, who has proven his abilities in leading the team.
However, there are a few players in important positions who may face scrutiny or pressure. It is not uncommon for players in such positions to be evaluated closely for their performances and contributions to the team’s success. The Rams will likely be monitoring the performances of these players and assessing whether any changes or adjustments need to be made to maintain the team’s competitiveness.
Wide receiver Cooper Kupp
While it is true that Cooper Kupp has been a crucial player for the Los Angeles Rams, helping them reach and win a Super Bowl during the 2021 season, it’s important to consider the factors mentioned.
Kupp will be turning 31 in June and has dealt with injury limitations, appearing in only 21 games over the past two seasons. It is also noted that his offensive output per game declined significantly this past season compared to previous years.
The Rams have already acquired Puka Nacua, who could potentially emerge as their new number one wide receiver. Additionally, there is a potential contract out for Kupp after the 2024 season, meaning the Rams could release him without significant salary cap consequences.
If Kupp struggles to stay healthy and fails to return to his previous level of production, it is plausible that the Rams may consider parting ways with him. This would be a difficult decision given Kupp’s past contributions, but the team’s evaluation of his performance, production, and their salary cap situation will ultimately play a role in determining his future with the team.
Cornerback Cobie Durant
The Los Angeles Rams’ secondary struggled throughout the 2023 season, ranking 20th in the NFL against the pass. The cornerbacks, including Durant, were unable to provide effective resistance or make game-changing plays.
Durant, a fourth-round pick in 2022, was involved in some of the team’s defensive issues. Although he intercepted three passes as a rookie, his performance in 2023 did not yield a single interception, with only six pass defenses credited to his name.
For the Rams to have a higher ceiling in the upcoming 2024 season, it is crucial for their secondary, including Durant, to make significant improvements. Durant needs to take a step forward in his development and contribute more effectively to the team’s pass defense. If the secondary does not show marked improvement, it could limit the team’s overall potential and success in the upcoming season.
Cornerback Derion Kendrick
You’re correct that Durant is not the only young cornerback on the Rams’ roster who needs to step up. Kendrick is also in a similar situation, although he had a slightly more productive 2023 season with one interception and 10 passes defensed.
The Rams’ secondary has been identified as a clear weakness on their roster. In the offseason, they made a notable addition by signing free agent Darious Williams from the Jacksonville Jaguars, which should bolster their cornerback group.
Additionally, the Rams possess a first-round pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, giving them an opportunity to further address the cornerback position. This potential addition could create competition for starting spots and roster spots, putting players like Durant and Kendrick under scrutiny.
With the team’s focus on improving the secondary, Durant, Kendrick, and other young cornerbacks will need to demonstrate significant progress and compete for their positions. The Rams are looking for players who can contribute effectively and address their Achilles heel in the secondary.
