Rams 1st FA signing painfully obvious after this 2X Pro Bowler's release

If the Los Angeles Rams are to improve their run defense, the team will need to target defenders on the front seven who are adept at stuffing the run. But if the team wants to terrorize opposing quarterbacks, then a different strategy should be considered. As far as LA Rams GM Les Snead, he sets the standard for the Rams free agency signings. Even as the team likes to focus on younger players, the unexpected availability of this interior defensive lineman could lure the Rams into signing him as a veteran who has a remarkable reputation at sacking opposing quarterbacks.

I am talking about Washington Commanders IDL Jonathan Allen, a very productive interior defensive lineman who has a knack at terrorizing opposing quarterbacks. And with his release, he will be one of the more sought-after free agents in the 2025 NFL Free agency market. But a blue chip veteran who just turned 30 years old could be an ideal bridge player to mentor the stable of young defensive linemen for a year or two, and immersing a player like Jonathan Allen with young passionate players would be an ideal setting for a player seeking success, while having fun playing the game he loves:

While Jonathan Allen did suffer a significant pectoral injury in Week 6 of the 2024 NFL season, his injury differs from that of Javon Hargrave in that he returned to play in the final two games of the regular season, as well as compete in three games in the postseason. He played well enough after his return to assuage any fears or concerns. Now, he will let the market set his fair market value (FMV).

I'm not suggesting that the Rams plop as much money as Allen wants for as many years as he desires. But a solid one or two year contract would work wonders for a young defense that is losing multiple defensive linemen to expired contracts this year. A veteran performer like Jonathan Allen would be a huge 'get' for the team that has already established itself as an incredible pass rush defense. 16 sacks in to playoff games is an incredible achievement.

Imagine what Jonathan Allen can do lined up with this defensive front? The Rams are well-known for their ability to restore the luster to fading veteran quarterbacks. Imagine the respect and discounts free agents might bestow to a Rams team that can recycle and rejuvenate veteran pass rushers? I would love to see how Defensive Coordinator Chris Shula might deploy Jonathan Allen in this defense. Adding him to a defense that already boasts Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske, Desjuan Johnson, Tyler Davis, David Olajiga, and Jack Heflin on the defensive line is a huge move in the right direction.

It would not eliminate the need for the team to invest in a nose tackle or two. But Allen would be a huge upgrade to a defense for a limited duration until the Rams young defenders can earn their own places among the NFL's elite.

This opportunity 'feels' like a Les Snead move at its finest. While many may view the Rams front office's focus as fixated on the offensive side of the football, I expect the team to reinforce the defense in free agency, and then salvoeing the offense in the 2025 NFL Draft.

As always, thanks for reading.

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