What if…? LA Rams Aaron Donald does indeed make good on threats to retire?

Free-agent DL option III

Even though former Seattle Seahawks defensive lineman Carlos Dunlap was also used in pass coverage, that is not his strong suit. But he has continued to be a menacing force in terms of getting after the quarterback, creating 14 quarterback hits and 8.5 quarterback sacks in 2021.

Dunlap is a 13-year NFL veteran and continues to be happy to help the team win. That was apparent as the Seahawks designed plays sending 6-foot-6 285-pound Dunlap into the flat to cover passes. Not surprisingly, he was not as effective in pass defense as he is at rushing the passer. But to be fair, he did defend seven passes in 2021, a solid number for a guy who had been primarily a hand in the dirt kind of guy. And 35 tackles is a pretty solid number for a guy who played 481 defensive snaps.

Don’t discount Dunlap

Dunlap is a big and powerful body who has played on the outside of the defensive front, attacking the offense at an angle. But he does possess the size to be considered for the option of moving in on the Rams front, perhaps playing the 4I or even some snaps at nose tackle. While he will not be able to withstand a major role for the Rams’ defensive line, he offers a solid rotational role.

And we cannot ignore the fact that playing for the Seahawks for nearly two seasons gives him significant familiarity and insight against the Rams’ NFC West Divisional opponents. That is one of the little attributes that makes Dunlap a viable option for the Rams.