The Rams defense took a huge step forward this season under Brandon Staley, going from a solid unit in 2019 to arguably the best in the NFL this year. Players such as Darious Williams, Jordan Fuller, Leonard Floyd and Justin Hollins have stepped up in a big way, as have holdovers Aaron Donald, Michael Brockers, Jalen Ramsey and John Johnson.
There’s no doubt the defense has carried the team this year, and Pro Football Focus put into perspective just how good the Rams have been on that side of the ball. They’re one of just three teams with a pass-rush grade and coverage grade of at least 80.
The other two are Washington and the Steelers.
Only teams with PFF pass-rush & coverage grades of 80+:
♦️ Washington Football Team
♦️ Pittsburgh Steelers
♦️ LA Rams pic.twitter.com/UcE7EDrOp7— PFF (@PFF) December 30, 2020
The pass rush was a major concern coming into the season after losing Dante Fowler Jr. and cutting ties with Clay Matthews. However, Leonard Floyd has exceeded all expectations, putting up career numbers for the Rams this year. Aaron Donald has been as good as he always is, too, commanding double- and triple-teams each and every week.
In the secondary, the Rams have a case to be the best in the NFL. Jalen Ramsey consistently locks down No. 1 receivers, Darious Williams has emerged as a budding star and John Johnson has once again proved he’s an elite safety. Add in Troy Hill and Jordan Fuller, and it’s as good a secondary as there is in football.
In Week 17 and potentially in the playoffs, it’ll be up to the defense to carry the Rams, especially after the recent rash of injuries the team suffered on offense.
