Is the return of DB Darious Williams enough to fix Rams defensive demise?

I don't think anyone is pleased with the performance of the LA Rams secondary in 2024 after four games. While not as horrific as the team's 32nd ranked run defense, the Rams pass coverage has been both inconsistent and undisciplined.

And it's not all injury related.

Undisciplined in that the Rams' secondary has been penalized more than expected, led by veteran DB Tre'Davious White. Per NFLPenalties.com, the LA Rams have been called for 22 penalties totaling 179 penalty yards in the first four games. Of the group, five defensive backs have been called for 10 penalties and 78 yards. Those defensive backs are:

• Tre'Davious White | 4 penalties | 29 yards
• Quentin Lake | 2 penalties | 10 yards
• Kamren Curl | 2 penalties | 19 yards
• Cam Lampkin | 1 penalty | 5 yards
• Kamren Kinchens | 1 penalty | 15 yards

Keep in mind that for many defensive penalties, the offense often claims a new set of downs.

Against the Chicago Bears, one penalty committed by DB Tre'Davious White negated a quarterback sack by Jared Verse. Two plays later, a penalty committed by DB Kamren Curl negated a QB sack shared by Jared Verse and Byron Young. Two QB sacks wiped out by poorly time DB penalties, and a combined loss of 13 yards by the Bears offense.

That's been the way the defense has continued to shoot itself in the foot so far this season.

Can Darious Williams fix the Rams pass defense?

It's obvious that the crown jewel of the team's secondary was always intended to be Darious Williams. From the initial depth chart, Williams was the clear starter, and the other starting role remained a closely contested decision between Cobie Durant and Tre'Davious White. Well, after four games, it's clear that Cobie Durant is better suited to start.

And DB Darious Williams is on the fast track to return to the active roster sooner than later.

So what of Tre White?

With Darious Williams back, White is far better suited as a rotational defensive back. Not only does that ensure that the team has the best defensive backs starting games, but White no longer runs the risk of getting gassed later in the game.

White can still be effective, simply in a lesser role. After all, he is playing in a new defense, is coming off a serious injury in 2023, and has yet to be up to snuff in terms of NFL endurance.

But I'm not convinced that just Darious Williams is 'enough.' I suspect that the optimal secondary will involve some combination of Kamren Curl, John Johnson, Ahkello Witherspoon, Darious Williams, and Quentin Lake. And quite honestly, seeing that on paper reminds me once more that this defense is not without elite talent.

The first step is starting Darious Williams. Hopefully, that happens in Week 5.

As always, thanks for reading.