5 free agents Rams can sign to replace Aaron Donald

A familiar ally returns

The fact that former LA Rams DT/NT Sebastian Joseph-Day is a free agent could bode well for both the player and the team. SJD not only was Aaron Donald's teammate for four NFL seasons, but he played alongside Donald and had some success in the process. He may not be the ultimate solution, but he does add a strong rotational piece to the team's defensive front.

Joseph-Day knows the team, the coaches, and the defense. He can slide in at any of the three defensive line positions, Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 310 pounds, SJD is a powerful defensive lineman who can hold the line, stuff the run, and even slip in a bit of a pass rush for good measure.

The Rams will need versatility in 2024, as there will undoubtedly be several players tested to see how well they may work in the defense. Sebastian Joseph-Day is a versatile veteran who allows this team to do so.

A jagged little pass rush boost

DE/OLB Dawuane Smoot is an impressive 6-foot-3 275-pound defensive end/outside linebacker who has played for the Jacksonville Jaguars for the past seven seasons. Smoot is a pass rusher off the edge, which will more than likely place him into a two-point stance if he joins the Rams' defense. He was viewed as not a great fit for the Jaguars defense for 2024. But he could be a solid fit for the LA Rams.

Smoot is a rotational piece, not a starter. He played 340 defensive snaps in 2023, racking up 10 tackles, 1.0 quarterback sack, four quarterback hits and one forced fumble. He is a pass rush specialist, and would likely be someone sent onto the football field on nickel and dime sub packages.

What makes Smoot so intriguing is that he is a veteran NFL pass rusher who has to be hungry for an opportunity to restore his reputation and respect in the NFL. The Rams could offer that opportunity. He makes an intriguing option for a defense in need of passionate pass rushers.