Rams still seeking answers on the depth chart to offset cornerback exodus

The Los Angeles Rams wasted no time this offseason importing two starting cornerbacks from the Kansas City Chiefs' secondary. The trade for All-Pro Trent McDuffie, paired with the signing of his free agent teammate, Jaylen Watson, settled the debate over how L.A. planned to upgrade the position.

The starting roles are claimed, then. And Emmanuel Forbes Jr., a starter in 2025, will be a factor. Josh Wallace will play his part. His workload already increased last season as he slid over to the nickel with Quentin Lake injured.

But that's only four names and the Rams typically carry five cornerbacks on the roster. After the departures of Ahkello Witherspoon, Cobie Durant, Darious Williams, Derion Kendrick, and Roger McCreary, the question of who will step into the fifth slot remains unresolved, with time ticking to find an answer.

Rams must make most of roster scraps to fill out CB rotation

They still have several open slots to reach the 90-man training camp limit, so another player or two could be added to the cornerback competition. For now, though, a bevy of undrafted free agents will duke it out among themselves. After the exodus from last year's group, the backend of the rotation will be up for grabs in training camp.

It's fair to say Cam Lampkin, who signed with the Rams two seasons ago, holds an inside track. As a rookie, Lampkin appeared in four games on special teams, then spent all of 2025 on the practice squad. The former Washington State corner did, though, flash some talent last preseason. After another year with the team, albeit in a non-rostered capacity, he holds a clear advantage due to his experience and familiarity within the organization.

Undrafted cornerback Al'zillion Hamilton was a projected Day 3 pick in the 2026 draft. At 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, he is not a punishing corner, but he arrives with exceptional instincts and technique. He's worth keeping on the radar.

2024 UDFA Alex Johnson is a versatile defensive back who can play both the nickel and as a rotational safety. He failed to stick with the Giants, Colts, or Titans before signing to the Rams' practice squad last November. Johnson must have caught the coaching staff's eye, though, because he's back to compete for a role in 2026.

Two rookies, Nyzier Fourqurean and Drey Norwood, are also names to watch. Don't let their undrafted status fool you. Both are of good size, have solid college track records, and arrived in L.A. for good reason.

Filling out the rotation won't be a question of talent alone. It will also be about how the player fits the role and complements his teammates' strengths and weaknesses. After all, a secondary survives on communication, coordination, chemistry, and cooperation. The four C's.

When the Rams return for training camp, they will have about six weeks before the season starts to determine which cornerback checks all the boxes.

As always, thanks for reading.

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