LA Rams unsung heroes on defense need to show up in Week 8 and beyond

Hero I: Ernest Jones IV

While not a rookie, Rams young inside linebacker Ernest Jones IV is carrying a heavy burden when it comes to the Rams defense. This is his first season where the middle of the football field is his domain, and he is handling that responsibility like a seasoned veteran.

A year ago, Jones was the padawan to NFL ILB Jedi Master, Bobby Wagner. While Wagner played a huge role in keeping the Rams defense focused, it was Jones who kept up with Wagner stride for stride, despite playing fewer defensive snaps.

This season, calling the plays for the Rams defense is on Ernest Jones' shoulders, and he is excelling in the role.

In seven games, Jones has 67 tackles, 1.0 quarterback sacks, one pass defensed, and eight tackles for a loss. He is no slouch in coverage either, allowing no more than 55.6 percent of the passes thrown to his receiver to find their mark.

At his current pace, Jones could end the 2023 NFL season with 170 tackles, 3.0 quarterback sacks, and 20 tackles for a loss. If that happens, he should earn his first NFL Pro Bowl honors. But berore we get all giddy and think Pro Bowl honors, Ernest Jones has to shut down the formidable Dallas Cowboys offense.