Rams roster already holds answer to urgent linebacker needs

Amid the headlines and blockbusters that defined the Los Angeles Rams' offseason, one fix fans didn't get was the addition of a starting off-ball linebacker alongside the run-stuffing, fumble-forcing machine that is Nate Landman.

While the 2026 draft contained some intriguing prospects at the position, trading for All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie cost the Rams three picks this year (and a third-rounder in 2027). That left them with just five to work with. No new faces entered the linebacker competition via the draft.

With training camp on the doorstep, it appears the team is prepared to run it back. Fortunately, fans need not despair. The roster holds plenty of talent already, with the summer still ahead to sort out the depth chart. Let's explore some of the options.

Rams may have the right partner for Landman already on the roster

1 - Omar Speights

A third-year veteran and former undrafted free agent, Speights is competent enough. He is a solid tackler, a stalwart presence, and a sturdy contributor. He has even dramatically improved his pass coverage skills, though that is still an area of weakness. The thing is, his playstyle mimics Landman's. In the grand scheme of things, Speights doesn't do much to diversify the defense.

Still, it will be difficult to pry him out of position on the depth chart given his 26 starts in two seasons. The Rams have done much worse at the position in recent history.

2 - Shaun Dolac

A fan favorite, Dolac is impossible to ignore as a candidate to steal Speights' job. The 6-foot-1, 222-pounder plays with the power one would expect in a much larger player. Sound fundamentals and tackling skills helped him win out over talented rookie linebacker Chris "Pooh" Paul Jr. in 2025, but can he dethrone Speights in 2026?

He may. He was a spot starter and a special teams star last season. If not for a late-season injury, he likely would have played a significant role in the playoffs. He returns to the defense knowing the scheme, coaches, and players.

3 - Elias Neal

Entering his third season, it's make-or-break time for Neal. Thus far in L.A., he has toggled between the practice squad and the active roster. Last season he saw special teams action in two games.

While Neal is a less obvious candidate to carve out a role, his passion and work ethic have kept him around so far. That's unlikely to be enough unless he shows progress in training camp, but he has played well in preseasons past.

4 - Nikhai Hill-Green

Before the Rams swiped him in free agency, there were plenty of eyes on the Alabama product leading up to the draft. In Los Angeles, Hill-Green joins former college teammates Ty Simpson and Tim Keenan III. He is one UDFA who could surprise in training camp.

A testament to resilience, Hill-Green battled back from a season-ending injury in 2022 at Michigan to wind up back in an elite Power 4 program three years later, making stops at Charlotte and Colorado before joining the Crimson Tide. He checks all the boxes as a strong tackler and run-stuffer, an outstanding force in coverage, and a playmaker in the turnover department. At Alabama, he gained experience in a complex defense facing formidable SEC offenses.

The Rams will enter training camp with an eye on getting stronger at linebacker, hopefully pairing Landman's stout run defense with a rangy partner who excels in coverage. With a pool of solid competitors to choose from, it's simply a matter of letting the competition play out.

As always, thanks for reading.

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