Six positions Rams Les Snead may tackle early in free agency

The Los Angeles Rams are one of the projected contenders for the upcoming NFL playoffs, despite not even having a full roster. While the team seeks players to round out its depth needs, almost all starters return from a rather successful 2025 NFL season.

But starters need rest during games. And LA's defense runs a rapid rotation to ensure players remain fresh and rested. Not only does that improve overall performance during games, but improves the chances to keep players healthy.

LA knows something about injuries. In 2025, the defense appeared to be humming along until injuries impacted the secondary. The mix-and-match strategy of trying to reclaim a dominating defense never seemed to restore the magic. And so, the team that seemed to field one of the best defenses early in the season struggled to stop offenses as the season wore on.

Where should Les Snead seek help for Rams roster?

1. Cornerback

With one addition and four subtractions, new defensive backs coach Jimmy Lake has to wonder what he's gotten himself into. Have no fear, as the Athletic's Jourdan Rodrigue hints that general manager Les Snead has more moves to address the position. Look for multiple additions, either in free agency, the draft, or both.

2. Offensive line depth

The retirement of right tackle Rob Havenstein won't impact LA as much as the absence of depth at the offensive tackle position will. While the team could draft rookies, it makes more sense to entrust the safety of veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford to veterans.

3. Wide receiver depth

While the team seldom used wide receiver Tutu Atwell in 2025, his absence creates a need on the Rams depth chart. A veteran wide receiver makes sense to pair up with Stafford.

4. Inside linebacker

While the team enjoyed the surprising performance of Nate Landman, the same cannot be said of the depth at the position. Veteran Troy Reeder is likely out, so the team could look to upgrade depth at the position.

5. Backup quarterback

NFL rumors suggest that backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo may sign with his former offensive coordinator, Mike LaFleur, to start with the Arizona Cardinals. Should that happen, LA will look for veteran help to back up Stafford. And there will be affordable options this year.

6. Pass rush depth

While the team is tickled pink with the performance of outside linebackers Byron Young, Jared Verse, and Josaiah Stewart, the depth of pass rushers is a bit thin for a new season. Not only does training camp require competition, but LA's rotation could use another player or two making plays from the edge.

Of course, the speed at which general manager Les Snead tackles each position hinges upon how quickly he can negotiate a team-friendly deal to add a player. So for now, it's a waiting game for fans.

As always, thanks for reading.