This season went as bad as it could possibly go for the Los Angeles Rams. But now that the season is over, the focus turns to what the franchise can change to ensure next season doesn’t go the same way this one did. This includes taking a look at head coach Sean McVay’s coaching staff, which now has a big opening.
Offensive coordinator Liam Coen left the Rams to return to the University of Kentucky in that same role and now the Rams need a new offensive coordinator. Apparently, the franchise already has their eye on who could fill that role in McVay’s staff.
According to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, former New York Jets offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, is expected to join Sean McVay’s staff with the Rams:
“There will be many changes on his staff,” Garafolo said. “Liam Coen, who was the offensive coordinator, he left for Kentucky so that role is open. Possible that Mike LaFleur, just let go by the Jets to pursue other opportunities, that could be the opportunity for him. He’s expected to land on McVay’s staff.”
LaFleur spent the last two seasons as Jets offensive coordinator under head coach Robert Saleh. Before that he was a member of the San Francisco 49ers staff under Kyle Shanahan, working both as the team’s wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator, before leaving with Saleh to join the Jets.
Unfortunately, LaFleur was unable to get the Jets offense operating at a high level as the team struggled to overcome their issues at quarterback as 2021 second overall pick Zach Wilson underwhelmed. The Jets ranked 28th and 29th in points per game in the two seasons with LaFleur in charge. How much of that was a product of Wilson and how much of that falls on LaFleur is unclear, but it looks as if he will have an opportunity to show what he is really capable of with the Rams.
Injuries absolutely wrecked the Rams this season with both quarterback Matthew Stafford and receiver Cooper Kupp being lost, not to mention a myriad of injuries throughout the offensive line, ultimately making the offense one of, if not, the worst in the entire NFL. Sometimes it is all about the right opportunity and situation and for LaFleur, joining this Rams staff underMcVay and with a full compliment of weapons may be exactly what he and this team needs.
