Following a surprise NFC West title in 2024, the Los Angeles Rams enter the 2025 season with heightened expectations and mounting pressure. Sean McVay’s team pulled off a comeback season last year, recovering from a 1-4 start to finish 10-7 and edge out the competition. But staying at the top won’t be easy.
With a demanding schedule and division rivals looking to bounce back, the Rams’ path to a repeat hinges on three key elements. The defense, in particular, must rise to the challenge if Los Angeles wants to remain king of the West.
Rebuilding Trust and Timing in the Rams’ Revamped Offense
The Los Angeles Rams face a pivotal transition as they aim to protect quarterback Matthew Stafford and ignite a new connection with star receiver Davante Adams. Stafford remains a sharp and capable leader at 37, but protection is essential, especially after being sacked 38 times in 2024. The blind side is a significant concern with Alaric Jackson’s health, which is now in question due to recurring blood clot issues, despite his lucrative extension. Veteran D.J. Humphries was signed as insurance but brings injury baggage, while David Quessenberry only provides a stopgap solution.
Stafford’s timing (and the offensive rhythm) could fall apart without a solid left tackle. Compounding this challenge is the integration of Adams into Sean McVay’s system. Swapping Cooper Kupp for Adams was bold, but syncing Stafford’s anticipatory throws with Adams’ precision-based routes requires time and chemistry.
McVay must adapt his scheme to emphasize Adams’ strengths in isolation and vertical plays, moving away from the motion-heavy style used with Kupp. Early-season clashes with elite defenses like San Francisco and Philadelphia will test the new setup. How quickly these pieces come together could significantly sway Los Angeles Rams odds. If protection falters or the Stafford-Adams link doesn’t click quickly, the Rams risk stalling drives and stifling their offensive evolution.
The Defense Is Talented but Still Developing
The Rams’ defense was a catalyst for their late-season surge in 2024, and it could be even better in 2025.
Adding Poona Ford was a smart move. The veteran brings a low center of gravity and elite run-stopping ability. His 78.8 PFF run defense grade in 2024, coupled with eight tackles for loss, is precisely what the Rams needed. Last year, they ranked 22nd in rushing yards allowed per game and 24th in yards per carry. Ford helps change that narrative.
However, his impact goes beyond numbers. As analysts describe, he’s a “DNA changer” who sets the tone up front. His presence will elevate young studs like Braden Fiske, Jared Verse, and Kobie Turner. Turner and Verse, especially, are poised for breakout years. Verse, the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year, has the tools to become a dominant edge presence.
There’s genuine depth here, and that matters. The Rams don’t rely on just one pass rusher; they rotate talent and keep offenses guessing.
With Ford plugging gaps, linebackers can freelance more, and that freedom is key for a defense built on speed and aggression.
The Secondary Still Has Work to Do
If there’s one unit that threatens to hold this defense back, it’s the secondary. The Rams ranked 20th in pass defense in both 2023 and 2024. That’s not sustainable for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
Darious Williams and Ahkello Witherspoon are steady vets, but neither is a lockdown corner. And the team still hasn’t landed a true CB1. Without one, elite receivers from division rivals (like DK Metcalf or Brandon Aiyuk) will feast on mismatches.
The Rams have internal options. Cobie Durant flashed promise last season with 40 tackles, eight pass breakups, and a pick. The question is whether he can leap. There’s also intrigue around Emmanuel Forbes Jr., who has the talent but hasn’t lived up to his potential. Los Angeles hopes a change of scenery sparks a turnaround.
Still, the lack of a clear top corner is risky. Veterans like Stephon Gilmore are available, and a bold trade for someone like Jalen Ramsey can’t be ruled out. The Rams need someone who can shadow top receivers, or their young pass rushers will be forced to win every snap to cover for the back end.
Why This Defense Can Power a Repeat
This is a defense on the rise. It’s not perfect (the secondary still needs help), but the pieces are in place. The line has depth, the linebackers are fast and physical, and the system has growing confidence. McVay’s group has shown resilience and developed an identity built around toughness and versatility.
Ford’s arrival is more than just a roster move; it’s a cultural shift. He brings leadership and a track record of success. His influence will sharpen the young core, especially players like Verse, who could become the face of the franchise defensively. Turner, Fiske, and rookie Ty Hamilton round out a rotation that can hold against any offensive line in the NFC. For those analyzing NFL game matchups and prop insights, it’s apparent that this defensive unit’s evolving identity adds a compelling wrinkle when evaluating future outcomes.
If the secondary can catch up through internal growth or a veteran addition, this defense could jump into top-10 territory. That would ease Stafford’s burden, giving him more short fields and second chances.
The Crown Is Theirs to Defend — And The Defense Might Be the Key
The NFC West is winnable, but the path will not be easy. Seattle is rebuilding. Arizona is still finding its footing. San Francisco remains the most significant threat, especially if their offense clicks. For the Rams, the formula is simple: protect Stafford, unleash Adams, and let the defense set the tone. That defense, young but fearless, might be the difference between a one-year wonder and a sustained run. And if they take another step forward, especially against the run, the Rams could be more than division champs. They might be contenders again.
