Rams veteran couldn't be having a better training camp (and it's just in time)

When the Los Angeles Rams decided to trade veteran inside linebacker Ernest Jones IV just before the start of the 2025 NFL season, a chain of events began that carried the team and fans along like a roller coaster. It was a season of thrills and chills, of thrilling climbs and frightening plunges. But at the end of the ride from last season, all opinions reached a single conclusion.

This team, this defense, has to do a better job of staffing the position. While the team addressed many positional needs in the offseason, no position was attacked in as many ways. The Rams signed veteran free agent inside linebacker Nate Landman, drafted talented inside linebacker Pooh Paul Jr., and even managed to land undrafted rookie sensation ILB Shaun Dolac.

While the team benefited from the unexpected promotions of rookies Beaux Limmer at center and Omar Speights at inside linebacker last season, it was clear that the team sought out veterans who could start in 2025, as last year's rookies had time to organically grow into their roles. And so, Nate Landman has been getting many of the reps with the defensive starters. And so far, he has shown why he was the right addition to this defense.

Like a boulder rolling downhill

I think the first thing that the Rams loved about inside linebacker Nate Landman is his size. He stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 235 pounds, large enough to go toe-to-toe with almost any NFL tight end, and certainly any NFL running back. And unlike the 6-foot-3, 236-pound Troy Reeder, Landman uses his size and power on nearly every play.

The pads are on, and if you needed to pick out the cream of the crop, Rams beat reporter Adam Grosbard has done the heavy lifting for you. I was amused by his description of Landman after two days of practice with pads on, describing him as a 'boulder going downhill.'

Grosbard even captures plenty of praise that Rams HC Sean McVay had to say about the veteran inside linebacker as well:

From the coach's comments, it would appear that the team is content to pair up Nate Landman with Omar Speights. While that may change as the Rams depth chart is sorted out, it does appear that the Rams are not starting Troy Reeder this season.

The Rams defense needs to get stingier on run defense, and Nate Landman will play a huge role along that objective. But he will not be able to do it alone. That is why Coach McVay's comments about how Landman leads the defense are so important. In addressing how he motivates his teammates, McVay praises his ability to get everyone going in the same direction.

The Rams needed more out of the inside linebacker position this season. It appears that Nate Landman is prepared to deliver that, and more. As always, thanks for reading.

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