Why is it more than okay to be optimistic about the LA Rams in 2024?

I: This passionate defense will shock the NFL

In 2023, the LA Rams defense ranked 13th in yards allowed, and 19th overall in points allowed. But in terms of takeaways, the Rams defense was ineffective, creating just 15 turnovers, no better than 30th overall in the NFL If the team has hopes of improving in 2024, those ranking have to improve.

Creating turnovers in the secondary seemed to be a primary goal for the front office this offseason, Ball-hawking defensive backs appeared to be on the menu, as the team signed two veteran defensive backs Darious Williams and Tre'Davious White, both of whom excel at pickpocketing passes. Then the team drafted former Miami defensive back Kamren Kinchens, a superstar of NCAA interceptions.

If the plan is to create turnovers, the front office has certainly done their part. Now, this secondary needs to play deceptive and effective pass defense. But to do that, they will need an active defensive front who will get after opposing quarterbacks.

That's exactly what this defensive front will deliver in 2024.

Warm front moving over SoFi Stadium in 2024

When it comes to the LA Rams defense, the front seven are rather lacking in seasoned experience. But what this team lacks in experience, they more than make up for in energy and passion. Let's run down what the 2024 defensive rotation will likely look for this upcoming season:

While the team has players returning to compete on this roster with just 25.5 quarterback sacks, don't gloss over the fact that many of those players will seen a spike in production in Year 2 simply from having up to 18 games worth of experience under their belts And the young Rams roster has been reinforced with an incredibly talented class of rookies for this season as well.

No, I am not proclaiming that every rookie on this defense will put up veteran star-like numbers. But this is a team that had outstanding success with rookies on the defensive front in 2023. Why should the same group of scouts, personnel executives, and coaches be expected to have less success this year?

You may face the uncertainty with trepidation and anxiety, but it's all part of the thrill in following the team through the 2024 NFL season. With so many outstanding rookies from 2023, the team gets them back with a vengeance this season. Plus, they are joined by a new wave of passionate pass rushers who want to showcase their own talents this season.

The Baltimore Ravens led all NFL teams by putting up 60 quarterback sacks in 2023. If the Rams players deliver as expected, the Rams pass rush could flirt with the NFL lead in that department.

Best of all, this is a young defense that will be together for years to come.

Thanks for reading.