The Los Angeles Rams ranked first defensively in passing yards, passing touchdowns allowed and net yards per attempt. Brandon Staley’s scheme was a reason for the secondary’s turnaround, but stellar play from a handful of players was even more impactful.
Jalen Ramsey and Darious Williams, in particular, were two of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. Combined, they allowed just four touchdowns and picked off five passes, allowing a completion rate of only 52.4% as a tandem.
Everyone knows Ramsey’s name, but Williams emerged as a stud for the Rams last season and the numbers are there to prove it. Just take a look at this tweet from Pro Football Focus. Ramsey and Williams ranked first and second in coverage snaps per reception last season; Ramsey went 18.2 coverage snaps per catch allowed, while Williams went 16.1 snaps per reception.
Most coverage snaps per reception in 2020:
🔹 Jalen Ramsey – 18.2
🔹 Darious Williams – 16.1LA have themselves an elite duo 😤 🔒 pic.twitter.com/vfJJwhdPoP
— PFF (@PFF) March 5, 2021
Ramsey and Williams didn’t give up much to opposing receivers, and they were tasked with covering some good ones – players such as Mike Evans, DK Metcalf, Allen Robinson, Tyler Lockett, Chris Godwin and DeAndre Hopkins.
Ramsey typically took No. 1 receivers, but Williams made quarterbacks pay when they tried to avoid Ramsey.
As long as the Rams can bring back Williams, who’s a restricted free agent, the secondary should continue playing at a high level under new coordinator Raheem Morris.
