The Los Angeles Rams have a storied legacy in the NFL, notably winning Super Bowl LVI. However, maintaining excellence requires constant evolution. With the 2024 NFL Draft over, the team shifts its focus to free agency, aiming to bolster their roster. Targeting signings like offensive tackles David Bakhtiari and Charles Leno Jr., along with wide receiver Hunter Renfrow, could fortify their squad for the upcoming season.
Reflecting on the 2023 Season
This past season, the Los Angeles Rams became one of the NFL’s most surprising success stories. After a major offseason overhaul, many expected the Rams to undergo a transitional phase. Defying these expectations, the team leaned on its seasoned leaders and received significant contributions from some unexpected rookies, securing a playoff berth.
After a disappointing five-win season, Los Angeles bounced back with 10 victories in 2023. Quarterback Matthew Stafford regained his stride, reaffirming head coach Sean McVay’s decision to stay. Despite making the playoffs, their journey ended with a heartbreaking 24-23 loss to the Detroit Lions in the NFC Wild Card Game.
Essential veterans like Stafford, Aaron Donald, and Cooper Kupp played pivotal roles in the team’s achievements. Alongside them, newcomers like rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua and defensive lineman Kobie Turner left significant marks. Instead of a rebuilding phase, 2023 could mark the dawn of a hopeful new chapter. Having navigated free agency and the draft, McVay and general manager Les Snead are now concentrating on further fortifying the team for the upcoming 2024 season.
Here we’ll look at the three free agent players whom the Los Angeles Rams must target after the 2024 NFL Draft
David Bakhtiari
First and foremost, the Rams should prioritize signing offensive tackle David Bakhtiari. The Green Bay Packers’ veteran left tackle is one of the premier protectors in the NFL. He is renowned for his exceptional pass-blocking skills and leadership qualities. Bakhtiari’s addition to the Rams’ offensive line would provide immediate stability and security for quarterback Matthew Stafford. With Bakhtiari anchoring the left side, the Rams can significantly reduce sacks and pressures. This would give Stafford more time to connect with his dynamic receiving corps. Additionally, Bakhtiari’s experience and mentorship would be invaluable for the younger linemen on the roster. This would foster a more cohesive and effective unit.
After 11 seasons with the Packers, Bakhtiari is now free to sign with any NFL team. Since a serious knee injury in 2020, Bakhtiari has played sparingly and is not expected to be fully healthy until at least before training camp. However, when he is on the field, he still performs at a high level. He has expressed a willingness to continue playing, making him an intriguing option for the 32-year-old former All-Pro offensive lineman.
Charles Leno Jr.
Another critical addition to the Rams’ offensive line would be Charles Leno Jr. The former Chicago Bears and Washington Commanders tackle has consistently been one of the most reliable and durable players at his position. Leno’s ability to play both left and right tackle provides the Rams with valuable flexibility. This would enable them to address multiple needs on their offensive line. His adeptness in both run-blocking and pass-protection makes him a perfect fit for the Rams’ balanced offensive scheme. By securing Leno’s services, the Rams can fortify their offensive line depth and ensure they have a dependable starter who can step in and perform at a high level. Leno started 47 games for Washington over the past three years after joining the team from Chicago. He played his first seven NFL seasons with the Bears, who released him in 2011.
Hunter Renfrow
After trading away wide receiver Ben Skowronek, the Rams may need to upgrade their receiver position. The team still has Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp on the roster, but beyond them, they are relatively thin at the position. Snead has never been shy about making bold moves during his tenure, so nothing is out of the realm of possibility. If the Rams are looking to upgrade the receiver position, considering former Las Vegas Raiders receiver Hunter Renfrow could be a smart option.
Yes, his production hasn’t been stellar over the past year or two. However, his first few seasons were impressive. In 2021, Renfrow posted 103 catches for 1,038 yards and 9 touchdowns. This was a standout year for the Raiders, and adding Renfrow to the mix with the Rams could be highly beneficial.
Looking Ahead
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Rams are at a crucial juncture. The 2023 season highlighted both their potential and areas needing improvement. They should target and sign key free agents like David Bakhtiari, Charles Leno Jr., and Hunter Renfrow. In doing so, the Rams can address their most pressing needs and position themselves for a return to championship contention. These players bring the skills, experience, and leadership required to elevate the team and ensure that the Rams are not only competitive but formidable in the seasons to come. As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, these strategic additions could be the difference-makers that lead the Rams back to the Super Bowl stage.
