Los Angeles Rams Free Agent Needs: Cornerback

While the Rams’ offense was inconsistent and frustrating to watch, the Rams’ defense held some of the teams’ brightest spots. Defensive tackle Aaron Donald had one of the greatest season an interior defensive linemen could have. Linebackers Alec Ogletree and Mark Barron  had strong seasons as well before injuries hurt the unit.

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But the secondary had the most intriguing year with Janoris Jenkins and Trumaine Johnson. Both young corners had solid years but both will be entering free agency along with Free Safety Rodney McLeod and Linebacker Mark Barron. Needless to say, the Rams have major decisions take make this coming offseason. McLeod is most likely to to re-sign as he will be a high priority, but the problems start with Jenkins and Johnson.

Both will demand big money and both will tour around the NFL looking for the best place to play. While the Rams could potentially sign all three, it would be a mistake. The Rams have solid CB depth with Lamarcus Joyner and EJ Gaines sitting right behind Jenkins and Johnson. The Rams could also target a CB in the draft as well.

The Rams have two second round picks following the Bradford – Foles trade. Corners like Eli Apple, Artie Burns, and Kendall Fuller will all likely be available in the second round. While the idea of signing both to long term deals and having a shutdown secondary is ideal, it is simply unwise.

Paying both those players the money they want will tie the Rams’ finances down for years. Trumaine Johnson is more likely to take less money to stay with the team, while Jenkins will likely chase money. Even when looking at their play, Johnson is the safer pick. Jenkins plays at a very risky pace. The Rams have a lot of key decisions this upcoming offseason, but this cornerback decision is one of the biggest.