Los Angeles Rams 2024 Preview

The Los Angeles Rams had a solid bounce-back season in 2023, finishing with a 10-7 record and securing a spot in the playoffs. However, as the 2024 season approaches, the expectations are more tempered, with the Rams’ win total over/under set at 8.5.

This might be due to the significant changes the team has undergone, particularly on the defensive side, with the departure of a franchise cornerstone.

Let’s dive into what to expect from the Rams this season.

Key Insights and Team Overview

The Rams are coming off a season where they managed to reassert themselves as a competitive team in the NFC. With Sean McVay returning as head coach and a roster that still features some high-level talent, the Rams are looking to remain in the playoff hunt. However, the loss of defensive superstar Aaron Donald will cast a long shadow over their defense, and how they adjust to life without him will be a critical factor in their 2024 success.

Offensive Changes

Puka Nacua’s Breakout:

Rookie Sensation: Puka Nacua was a revelation in his rookie season, breaking numerous rookie receiving records with over 100 catches and nearly 1,500 yards. His ability to stretch the field and make big plays down the sideline will be crucial to the Rams’ offense, especially if he can continue to develop chemistry with Matthew Stafford.
Kyren Williams’ Emergence:
- Pro Bowl Running Back: Kyren Williams had a breakout season, rushing for over 1,100 yards and leading the NFL in rushing yards per game. His combination of speed and power made him a key cog in the Rams’ offensive machine, and he’ll look to build on that success in 2024.
- Complementary Weapons: Cooper Kupp, when healthy, remains one of the league’s top receivers. Despite an injury-shortened 2023 season, he still posted nearly 700 yards in 12 games. Matthew Stafford, who made the Pro Bowl last season with 24 touchdowns and over 260 passing yards per game, will continue to rely on Kupp and Nacua as his primary targets.

O-Line Adjustments:

Stability and Changes: The Rams’ offensive line was a strength last season, allowing only 34 sacks, which was tied for the sixth-lowest in the league. The line returns four of its five starters, with the only change being at center. Colton Shelton has departed, and while Jonah Jackson was signed from Detroit, he’ll bolster the line but won’t take over the center spot, which will be filled by a young player from within.

Defensive Adjustments

Life After Aaron Donald:

Defensive Void: The Rams will be without Aaron Donald, arguably the greatest defensive tackle of all time, who retired after an eight-sack season in 2023. His absence leaves a massive hole in the defense, both in terms of leadership and on-field production.
Young Defensive Line: The Rams are banking on their young defensive linemen to step up. Kobe Turner, who had nine sacks as a rookie from the nose tackle position, and Byron Young, who also had a strong rookie campaign with eight sacks, will be key to the Rams’ pass rush. Additionally, first-round pick Jared Verse and second-rounder Braden Fisk will be expected to contribute right away.

Secondary Overhaul:

Changes at Cornerback and Safety: The Rams’ secondary saw significant turnover. Star safety Jordan Fuller, who had three interceptions last season, is gone, replaced by Cameron Curl, who brings solid tackling but less playmaking ability. At cornerback, Darious Williams, returning to the Rams after a stint in Jacksonville where he had a stellar season, will be a key figure. Darion Kendrick remains in the fold, but the loss of Ahkello Witherspoon, their best corner last year, could hurt if the new additions don’t step up.

Linebacker Leadership:

Ernest Jones’ Role: Ernest Jones will be the leader of the linebacker corps after a record-setting 145 tackles last season. His ability to play both the run and pass will be critical, especially with the defensive line undergoing so many changes.

Season Outlook

The Rams face a challenging season ahead, and their win total floor and ceiling reflect the uncertainty surrounding the team’s roster changes and tough schedule:

Win Total Floor: 7 Wins

Why? The loss of Aaron Donald and the turnover in the secondary could lead to significant defensive struggles. If the young players on the defensive line don’t live up to expectations and the secondary can’t prevent big plays, the Rams could regress and struggle to stay above .500.

Win Total Ceiling: 12 Wins

Why? If Matthew Stafford and the offense can stay healthy and continue to perform at a high level, and if the young defensive players can step up and mitigate the loss of Aaron Donald, the Rams could exceed expectations and be a dark horse contender in the NFC. A 12-5 record would put them in a strong position for another playoff run.

Final Thoughts

The Los Angeles Rams are in a transition period, with significant changes on defense and questions about how their young players will perform in key roles. However, with Sean McVay at the helm and a potent offense led by Matthew Stafford, Puka Nacua, and Kyren Williams, the Rams have the potential to remain competitive in 2024. The key will be how well the defense can hold up without Aaron Donald and whether the offense can continue to carry the load.

Key Points Recap

Puka Nacua emerged as a top receiving threat, breaking rookie records and becoming a key target for Matthew Stafford.
Kyren Williams is a Pro Bowl running back, leading the NFL in rushing yards per game last season.
The offensive line remains mostly intact, with four of five starters returning, but the center position is a question mark.
The defense faces a significant challenge without Aaron Donald, and young players like Kobe Turner and Byron Young will need to step up.
The secondary has been overhauled, with Darious Williams returning and Cameron Curl stepping in at safety.
The Rams have a wide range of outcomes, with a win total floor of 7 wins and a ceiling of 12 wins.

Rams fans, buckle up for a season of uncertainty but also potential. If the new pieces fit together well, 2024 could be another exciting year in LA.

Subscribe to our newsletter