LA Rams: 5 wish-list items for the defense in 2022

Item IV: Outside linebacker

In terms of the wish-list for the LA Rams during the 2022 offseason, re-signing All-Pro outside linebacker Von Miller is pretty much at the top of the team’s ‘To Do,’ list. Von Miller was critical to the LA Rams winning Super Bowl LVI, and keeping him on the Rams roster greatly enhances the chances of repeating as NFL Champions.

While Miller still appears to be deciding on his future between the LA Rams or the Denver Broncos, which makes securing the position more challenging. Until Von Miller chooses where he wants to play in 2022, the team needs to prepare for both him staying or leaving.

Non-Von OLB options

If Von Miller does decide to return to Denver, the LA Rams wish-list still needs to have OLB on it, but the name would change to the best option available. Fortunately for the front office, they have options to get what they want. There are some very recognizable names that have already been released. The Atlanta Falcons released former Rams OLB Dante Fowler Jr., even while the New England Patriots turned OLB Kyle Van Noy loose as well.

If the Rams fail to extend Miller, the front office will need to act quickly to add an outside linebacker to play opposite Leonard Floyd. None would be as good as Von Miller, but they may not have to be as good. The team will have a default starter in Justin Hollins, who will be backed up by Terrell Lewis and Chris Garrett.

Projected FA Ogbonnia Okoronkwo was off to a good season before acquiring Von Miller, but he is also expected to sign elsewhere. He could return to add enough depth to the rotation as an okay consolation prize, but Von Miller is the top option.