Now that the 2016 NFL season has officially come to an end, the real work in the offseason has officially begun. For many teams like the Los Angeles Rams, free agency will play a huge factor in how the team could look come next season.
The biggest question surrounding Los Angeles is whether or not they will attempt to re-sign cornerback Trumaine Johnson. According to Jason Cole of Bleacher Report, fans could see yet another one of their top cornerbacks walk in free agency:
“Multiple league personnel execs predict that Johnson will be let go as a free agent, or will struggle severely in Wade Phillips’ defense.”
The Rams reportedly lost Janoris Jenkins to free agency last year after an error in communication compelled them to place the franchise tag on Johson instead. Now, it seems the team will end up with neither if they do indeed decide to let Johnson go.
Furthermore, it has been added that should Johnson stay, he would not make a great fit in defensive coordinator Wade Phillips’ hybrid 3-4 scheme. While there have been conflicting reports about Johnson’s ability to adapt to a new scheme, it would be hard to imagine why a player with his skillset could not fit into the new system.
Although one cannot expect the team to solve every personnel issue in the offseason, they can focus on positions where they lack depth. While cornerback is just one of the pressing needs the Rams face this offseason, it is one they must address quickly if they want to avoid another catastrophic free agency.
