Although there were a number of issues that factored into the disappointing 2019 NFL season for the Los Angeles Rams, the drop-off from their offense was undoubtedly one of the biggest problems.
As a result, the Rams opted to re-open the offensive coordinator position with the hiring of Kevin O’Connell. Like head coach Sean McVay, O’Connell made his bones with the Washington Redskins before taking such a high-profile gig.
O’Connell will now be tasked with helping get this offense back on track as one of the highest-scoring groups in the NFL. It seems McVay is confident that the new edition will be able to thrive in his new role.
McVay has admittedly been impressed with what he has seen from O’Connell as he has made the transition from player to coach, via Stu Jackson of the team’s official website:
“I’ve been really impressed with from when he was a player and the seamless transition that he’s made into coaching – his mastery of the position,” McVay said. “When you talk about big-picture perspective, it’s not just the quarterback position, it’s all 11 (players) on offense, it’s all 11 (players) on defense, understating rules, responsibilities. Just the charisma, the presence, all those things were things that excited you about getting an opportunity to work together.”
The Rams seemingly went with a youthful approach when it came to assembling the new coaching staff. McVay’s comments indicate that not only was he looking for a knowledgable coach that fits his scheme but one that can become well-liked by players and become a leader.
It is certainly encouraging to see that the coaching staff has already started to mesh together quite well since they have plenty of work to do if they hope to restore the offense in the 2020 NFL season. Despite their recent struggles, the expectations remain as high as ever in Los Angeles as they prepare to open the 2020 NFL season at SoFi Stadium.
McVay has already revealed that aside from his duties as the offensive coordinator, O’Connell will also be doubling as the unofficial quarterbacks coach. This means his priority will be getting quarterback Jared Goff back to his Pro Bowl form following a rocky 2019 campaign.
While O’Connell will carry plenty of influence on offense, McVay will still remain as the primary play-caller. Regardless, it is safe to assume he will still have plenty of say when it comes to developing their scheme on offense this offseason much like former offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur did before eventually becoming the head coach for the Green Bay Packers.
