SEALED: In return for Matthew Stafford, the Rams received a $920 million star.
The 2023 NFL season was extremely eventful for the Los Angeles Rams. With a 10-7 record at the end, they had to deal with a disappointing loss to the Detroit Lions in the Wild Card Round. The Rams have important decisions to make regarding their upcoming free agents as the offseason approaches. This article explores the key players that the Rams should aim to re-sign in the NFL free agency of 2024.
The Rams’ 2023 campaign turned out to be an unexpected turn of events. Preseason predictions indicated that the team would go through a rebuilding phase after losing key veteran players, but instead they secured a Wild Card berth. They were driven by the comeback of quarterback Matthew Stafford, the strategic acumen of head coach Sean McVay, and contributions from both expected and unanticipated players. As a result, the Rams as the sixth seed earned a trip to the postseason.
However, an agonizing 24-23 loss to the Lions in the NFC Wild Card Game ended their postseason hopes. Prominent performers included Cooper Kupp, Aaron Donald, and Stafford; up-and-coming players included defensive lineman Kobie Turner and rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua.
The 2023 season suggested the start of a new competitive era rather than a rebuild. McVay and general manager Les Snead want to build on this accomplishment going forward. They might add more strength to the squad in time for the 2024 campaign.
Outlook for Free Agencies
The Rams are in a good spot going into the upcoming free agency period, despite early doubts. Promising young players are on rookie deals, and several important veteran players are already under contract. Strategic resignings are still important, though.
Guard Kevin Dotson and offensive tackle Alaric Jackson (restricted) are two players that should be taken into account. Despite being largely unknown at the beginning of the season, Jackson turned out to be a reliable player along the offensive line.
Defensive end Jonah Williams and linebacker free agents Christian Rozeboom and Michael Hoecht need to be decided upon as free agency approaches. Jordan Fuller and John Johnson III, two crucial members of the secondary, are also worthy of serious consideration as safeties.
Late in the season, wide receiver Demarcus Robinson became an outstanding player. In the season finale, he finished with a six-catch, 92-yard performance to cap off his performance. Of course, maintaining the offensive line is still the first priority. But considering that Stafford had fewer sacks this season than he did last, Robinson’s contributions highlight the depth of talent that needs to be recognized.
With a projected cap space of $48.2 million, the Rams are well-positioned in terms of financial flexibility. That’s more than the league standard. This gives Snead the chance to preserve the coherence of the roster.
We’ll examine the top Detroit players that the Rams need to re-sign in 2024 NFL free agency.
EDGE’s Michael Hoecht
Yes, there could be some fans who are hesitant about Michael Hoecht coming back. The Rams are eager to have him back in the fold, though. Hoecht finished the season strong despite having a slow start at EDGE. His influence goes beyond what one might expect from a starting edge player. Hoecht gives the edge more bulk, especially in the run game.
Remember that players like Ochaun Mathis and Nick Hampton are raw talent that needs to be developed. The Rams may decide to tender Hoecht as a restricted free agent as a result. He might be guaranteed a spot in the starting lineup for the next campaign with this move.
LB’s Christian Rozeboom
Is the $2.8 million right of first refusal tender worth Christian Rozeboom? Rozeboom might not be the best starter, yes. On the other hand, he has a great work ethic on defense and adds indisputable value to special teams. Rozeboom, who is positioned as a dependable depth and rotation player in the linebacker unit, is expected to make a comeback next season. Rozeboom’s familiarity with the defensive scheme provides a layer of stability, even in the event that the Rams choose to draft a linebacker.
