LA Rams LB Coach Joe Barry signs new contract to return

LA Rams linebacker coach Joe Barry chooses to return to LA and signs a new contract with team

LA Rams linebacker coach Joe Barry had several opportunities in 2019 for promotion. After the LA Rams elected not to renew defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, Barry was thought to be an internal candidate, and a leading candidate for the role.  Simultaneously, Barry interviewed for a defensive coordinator role with the University of Southern California. The Rams defensive coordinator job eventually fell to former Denver Broncos outside linebackers coach Brandon Staley.  In the aftermath, reports indicated that the USC Trojan DC job was offered to Barry.

As events unraveled, there were many questions as to whether Barry would be back as linebackers coach for the Rams. We now have our answer.

Yes.

ESPN’s Rams correspondent Lindsey Thiry confirmed that the Rams have re-signed Joe Barry to a new multiyear deal.

That is excellent news for both Barry and the team.

Barry is very good with linebackers

Barry may have not had the best defenses as defensive coordinator, but his work with the LA Rams at the linebacker position has been sensational. He worked with then undrafted interior linebacker Cory Littleton and developed him into a highly coveted defensive force.  He was so successful, that the Rams may not be able to afford Littleton’s next contract.

With the salary cap so tight, and with the market price on Littleton rising all the time, Barry may need to pull another developmental project from the roster to build a solid interior linebacker for the team.

Barry has worked with head coach Sean McVay since their time together as coaches for the Washington Redskins. Whether it was money, challenge, or friendship, McVay has persuaded Barry to remain an integral component to the Rams coaching staff.

USC will need to return to the drawing board to fill their defensive coordinator position. Now that Joe Barry is back with the LA Rams, he’s out of the running.