The Los Angeles Rams, once Super Bowl champions, had a disappointing year in 2022 as they struggled early and failed to make it to the postseason. During the offseason, the team is taking the time to regroup and analyze their shortcomings to come back stronger for the upcoming NFL season. There are ten key lessons that the Rams can build on to pave their path to success.
1. Acceptance
The Rams must face the reality that they are currently considered underdogs in the race for the Super Bowl. The sports betting markets show the Kansas City Chiefs as clear favorites, followed by the Philadelphia Eagles, the Buffalo Bills, the San Francisco 49ers, and the Cincinnati Bengals. The Rams would do well to acknowledge their position as longshots and use it as motivation to prove the doubters wrong.
2. Redefine Progress
After winning the Vince Lombardi trophy, the Rams’ dismal 5-12 record in the subsequent season was far from what they had anticipated. In 2023, the team needs to redefine success. An improved regular season performance should be their primary objective, with a strong push toward securing a spot in the playoffs.
3. Overcome Injuries
Injuries can significantly impact any team’s performance, and the Rams experienced their fair share of bad luck. However, it’s part of the game, and the teams that address injuries are often the most successful. Last season, the Rams’ offensive line was particularly affected, forcing the team into numerous early changes. Los Angeles set a team record by fielding 12 different offensive line combinations in the first 12 weeks of the season. While luck may not always be on their side, the Rams must find ways to mitigate the impact of injuries and maintain a competitive edge.
4. Building Depth
The injuries suffered by the Rams exposed a lack of depth in certain positions, particularly the offensive line and at quarterback. While building line depth is hard, acquiring a reliable backup quarterback isn’t difficult. It should be a top priority, as demonstrated by the team’s struggles when Matthew Stafford was unavailable. Bryce Perkins, John Wolford, and Baker Mayfield all fell short in their attempts to fill the void. The coaching staff must address the squad’s depth concerns to ensure greater resilience.
5. Maximizing the Draft
The NFL draft allows teams to bolster their rosters with talented college players. However, the Rams have not fully capitalized on this avenue recently. Draft picks such as Terrell Burgess and Terrell Lewis were cut last season, and few have shown promise in making a lasting impact. The 2023 NFL Draft saw six new offensive players, seven defensive players, and a punter to the team. These additions were chosen across rounds, ranging from the second to the seventh. Although many of these picks are viewed as prospects for the long run, a handful have stood out as potential starters for the upcoming season. Notably, Steve Avila, Bryon Young, and Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson have garnered attention as individuals who could make an impact. Overall, experts agree that the Rams had a successful draft, but it is expected to take some time for these rookies to integrate seamlessly into the team’s roster.
6. Player Development
The coaching staff must acknowledge that certain players should have been given more opportunities earlier in the season. Tutu Atwell, Michael Hoecht, and Cobie Durant showcased their abilities when it was almost too late to salvage the year. In 2023, these players should be involved from the start to maximize their potential contributions.
7. Leverage Positive Performances
Despite the disappointments of the 2022 season, some Rams players proved their worth and demonstrated potential for future success. Bobby Wagner displayed impressive defensive stats, while Matt Gay, Cooper Kupp, and Cam Akers had strong campaigns. The Rams will rely heavily on these individuals to lead the team toward the playoffs in the upcoming season.
8. Moving On from the Past
It can be challenging to overcome the disappointment of a poor season, but the Rams must shift their focus to the future. While 2022 had its memorable moments, it ultimately failed. Reflecting on the weight of expectations and the possible underlying issues is necessary, but dwelling on past glories or defeats will only hinder progress. The Rams must approach each season with a fresh mindset.
9. Proactive Coaching
One of the most crucial takeaways from the 2022 season lies with the coaching staff. Too often, they reacted to situations when the game was already lost, resulting in missed opportunities. Timely team changes and adjustments in formation are essential for the Rams to improve in the next season. The coaching staff must read the game better and make proactive decisions to influence the outcome positively.
10. Respect the Competition
The Los Angeles Rams have internalized a vital lesson when competing in the NFL: they recognize that their opponents constantly seek improvement, particularly when facing the previous year’s Super Bowl champions. As the 2023 season approaches, the Rams find themselves in a unique position where they won’t be defending their title. While this might seem advantageous, they understand that it is crucial to avoid falling into a sense of complacency.
They know that other teams will be motivated to seize the opportunity to outperform them, presenting a heightened challenge. Therefore, the Rams are diligently preparing themselves mentally and physically, ensuring that they remain focused, driven, and ready to face the intensified competition that lies ahead. They embrace that maintaining their position as a formidable force in the league requires constant adaptation, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Conclusion
By embracing these ten learning curves, Los Angeles has the potential to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming NFL season. It will be crucial to recognize their current standing, adapt to increased competition, and address depth issues. With proactive coaching and a focus on player development, the Rams can aspire to reclaim their spot among the NFL’s elite.
