Rams' pass defense has overcome injuries to rank among the NFL's best

It's not about who the Los Angeles Rams added in the offseason. Every extension, draft selection, and free agent signing has one goal in mind. Bolstering the pass defense was one of general manager Les Snead's top priorities. Mission accomplished.

And that's more than impressive. This 'star-studded' defense has been anything but star-studded so far. The team has only seen an ineffective Myles Garret in one game. Defensive tackle Aaron Donald has suited up twice. Safety Kam Kinchens has only played in two games. Cornerback Jaylen Watson was injured in Week 3.

It doesn't matter. By yards allowed, LA's pass defense is second only to that of the Seattle Seahawks, and not by very much; the Rams have surrendered just 145.5 passing yards per contest. Only the Vikings have allowed a lower completion rate. Quarterbacks have completed just 53.5 percent of their passes against Chris Shula's defense.

That's a jaw-dropping performance from an injury-depleted defense. It's time to give Shula some accolades for a job well done.

Rams are getting quality snaps from unlikely sources

And yes, this team is getting production from depth players too. Undrafted cornerback Josh Wallace has allowed just 50 percent of passes to find their target. He has one interception and was robbed of another by atrocious officiating. Quarterbacks have posted a dismal 27.6 passer rating when throwing his way.

Rookie edge rusher Wesley Bailey has played 61 defensive snaps. In that action, he has four tackles, and a sack. In coverage, he has allowed one catch on three targets.

Linebacker and special teams contributor Shaun Dolac put up six tackles in the one game he participated on defense (19 snaps). He allowed two catches for 17 yards. He is a plus depth piece behind starters Nate Landman and Omar Speights.

LA's pass rush has not been much of a factor. The group has only generated seven sacks in four games. But they did record four against the Eagles. That's promising, and the defense hopes to welcome back both Donald and Garrett soon.

When the offense stops turning the ball over, the Rams defense will shine even brighter. Until then, winning - credit the defense for making that possible in Philadelphia - is enough.

As always, thanks for reading.

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