Savvy Les Snead surprises Rams fans by re-signing on the sly edge rusher

The work for Los Angeles Rams general manager Les Snead is not waning. Not just yet. After a flurry of extensions, a blockbuster trade for All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie, and then a pair of inspired free agent signings, Snead has earned a break.

Thankfully, he isn't taking it.

The Rams roster has been balanced out with key contributors to smooth over all perceived vulnerabilities and depth issues. While work remains to be done, the front office has essentially immunized the team from drafting for need. Almost.

There was one shallow position on the team that needed depth. And LA just addressed that as well.

Somewhere, defensive coordinator Chris Shula is enjoying the recent activity.

Los Angeles has a dominating duo af outside linebackers in Byron Young and Jared Verse. And newcomer Josaiah Stewart flashed superb promise in 2025. But beyond that trio, the team's rotation falls short. Well, until Keir Thomas is factored back into the mix.

Keir Thomas is overdue for his breakoout season

The LA Rams have a fine eye for talent at the edge. Unfortunately, Keir Thomas has yet to prove that discernment. An injury sidelined him through the entirety of 2025. But he showed signs of emerging as a complete edge rusher as 2024 ended.

Now he's back to pick up where he left off.

Of course, this does not prevent Snead from adding competition via the draft. And he could even pick up a team-friendly option on a new edge rusher. But this is not the type of move Les Snead would make if he's seeking a headline.

Perhaps he is content with a pair of Pro Bowlers starting in his defense.

Thomas will continue to face competition for playing time with outside linebacker / defensive end Desjuan Johnson. Johnson put up a respectable season in 2025, despite cross-training for a new role. With Thomas back in Horns, Johnson has a bit more flexibility to play in either a two-point or three-point stance this season.

As always, thanks for reading.