Rams fans face a no-win scenario as multiple coaches are in line for HC openings

The Los Angeles Rams must prepare to face the surprising Chicago Bears and the worst of Mother Nature. But at least three key members of the coaching staff have more than just that on their plates right now. And as frustrating as that may be for fans, the careers of defensive coordinator Chris Shula, offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, and offensive pass game coordinator Nathan Scheelhaase are not up for a vote.

ESPN NLF insider Peter Schrager has the scoop, and he has shared their treks with NFL fans:

It's nothing new for Los Angeles to face restocking the coaching staff at the end of each season. In fact, it's been a bit of a tradition. The anomaly occurs when other NFL teams fail to poach coaches from the staff, which has seldom been the case.

Even if coordinators are passed over for head coaching roles, positional coaches are often lost as new head coaches seek to round out their staff. So, which coaches have filled their head coaching dance cards?

Fans anxious as 3 key LA Rams coaches already interviewing

1. DC Chris Shula

• Arizona Cardinals
• Baltimore Ravens
• Las Vegas Raiders
• Miami Dolphins
• New York Giants
• Tennessee Titans

The most likely head coach candidate is Chris Shula. He certainly seems to be the most popular right now, and he makes sense for several teams. Curiously, he remains a popular choice despite significant regression from his defense.

Unfortunately, his popularity opens the possibility for Los Angeles to bring back former defensive coordinator Raheem Morris.

The Shula name carries a lot of weight in Miami, and I would not be the least bit surprised to see the Dolphins make him an offer. But his best fit may be the Tennessee Titans, as he brings the toughness that the Titans are known for.

2. OC Mike LaFleur

• Arizona Cardinals
• Las Vegas Raiders

Fans were shocked to see what little interest NFL teams seem to have in LA's offensive coordinator. But with older brother Matt LaFleur off the market, younger brother Mike LaFleur may be a suitable substitute. In the eyes of many LA fans, LaFleur is the true star of the coaching staff this season.

LaFleur is at home with offenses that feature tight ends, which describes both the Cardinals and Raiders offenses. Of the two, the Raiders could be the most intriguing. But his experience in the NFC West could make him a top choice for the Cardinals offense.

3. Offensive Pass Game Coordinator Nate Scheelhaase

• Baltimore Ravens
• Cleveland Browns
• Las Vegas Raiders

Young rising star Nate Scheelhaase is no surprise. What is surprising is that he seems to be more popular than even his offensive coordinator, Mike LaFleur. Of the teams interested, the Cleveland Browns certainly seem the most interesting. The Browns are seeking an offensive identity, and Scheelhaase could certainly help them build one.

Not all coaches will be hired away, hopefully. But the remote likelihood of losing coaches is concerning to fans and teams alike. Should a role open up on the team, the list of optimal candidates will shrink as the team advances further and further in the playoffs.

The team expects to lose Chris Shula, which has motivated general manager Les Snead to lock in both inside linebacker Nate Landman and safety Quentin Lake with unexpected extensions. They are key contributors to the defense, and both faced expiring contracts.

While the LA Rams may have accepted the likely loss of coaches to promotions this year, they are making every effort to ensure that few players can follow them to their new teams.

As always, thanks for reading.