8 Rams whose performances have earned extensions for the 2025 NFL season

(8) - Jake Hummel

Okay, so he isn't starting for the Rams defense. That shouldn't matter. Veteran ILB Jake Hummel brings three vital attributes with him to the Rams roster: Adaptability, affordability, and availability. Hummel had the special teams play of the season when he blocked a punt in Week 14, allowing teammate TE Hunter Long to pick it up and race for the touchdown.

He deserves an extension from that play alone.

For what amounts to a special teams specialist, Hummel is rather productive. In 23 defensive snaps and 300 special teams snaps, he has recorded seven tackles in 2024. That is pretty good for a depth player who seldom sees the football field.

But he is a fierce and fiesty competitor who throws everything he has into every play. He doesn't start, but he buttresses the team from bad developments if injuries occur and he is promoted to a starter role. He played well enough in the preseason to earn a roster spot. He has played well enough in a very limited role to return and compete for a larger role in 2025.

(7) - OLB Michael Hoecht

While OLB Michael Hoecht has been demoted from starter to rotational outside linebacker/pass rusher, the less demanding role suits him very well. He continues to be targeted by opposing quarterbacks, but not nearly as frequently as in 2023. As such, he has not been forced into covering speedy wide receivers in mismatches.

Despite filling a rotational role, Hoecht continues to be productive. In 14 games, he has 45 tackles, 3.0 quarterback sacks, four tackles for a loss, six quarterback hits, and 10 quarterback pressures. Best of all, Hoecht is versatile enough to start for the team, rotate in, or play in a two-point or three-point stance.

He has even broken up two passes this season.

DC Chris Shula does not get enough credit for the range of defensive looks that his gives opposing offenss. And the versatility of Hoecht allows him to add bodies to the defensive front while still allowing some deception and subterfuge. Hoecht is a dependable contributor who can start or fill a vital rotational role. He is ideally suited for this defense, and deserves to continue contributing in 2025.