3 must moves to build the LA Rams a better bench crew

Take the edge off the defense

The LA Rams have entrusted their edge pass rush to veteran Leonard Floyd and a lot of young players who hope to forge a durable NFL career. OLB Jason Pierre-Paul can help them find the path. Of course, there are other names and other edge rushers, but JPP is at a point in his career where it’s all about playing the game that he loves, and competing for another Super Bowl ring.

And who better to torment and chase down Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady than his former nemesis/teammate, Jason Pierre-Paul?   JPP is a 12-year NFL veteran whose production plummeted in 2021. Not only has he lost a step in pass coverage, but his pass rush suffered tremendously too. So why should the Rams pursue him?

Realistic expectations for Rams Roster

The LA Rams know that the creation of a championship roster means a fine balance in payroll, roster positions, skill sets, and perhaps most of all, role players. Many who comment seem to believe that roster construction has no financial limitations and that everyone should be big-time names.  From healthcare to construction, the need for role players is vital to the success of that project. Nursing wards need more temperature takers than chart readers. Construction projects need more hand shovelers than backhoes.

JPP can fill a rotational role with the LA Rams, and in the process, restore his NFL reputation. The Rams have resuscitated the careers of practically every outside linebacker who has joined the team over the past five years. From Dante Fowler Jr. to Leonard Floyd, Justin Hollins to Von Miller. Players find that signing on with the LA Rams is an immediate boost in their statistics.

I believe that Pierre-Paul would be willing to play a lesser role on a very competitive team. And I think that he could find a less taxing role (say 30-45 percent of the defensive snaps) aids him quite significantly by allowing him to make those fewer defensive snaps count.  A team-friendly contract, a reduced role, but a chance to be relevant once more?  I think that’s an offer he can’t refuse.