If the Los Angeles Rams aim to build on last season and move closer to championship contention, they need several players to step up, especially on defense. With Aaron Donald retired, the team will rely more on Kobie Turner, Byron Young, and Ernest Jones.
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Byron Young, in particular, had a breakout rookie season, recording 42 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and eight sacks. Not content with these achievements, Young has bulked up from 250 to nearly 260 pounds, as reported by Stu Jackson of Rams.com:
“It’s good to be bigger and fast,” Young said. “They wanted me to see if I could play at this weight and sustain it, and that’s what I’m doing. It feels great. Getting close to 260, and I don’t look bad. I was worried about gaining weight and not looking good, but it’s definitely helping with the run game, pass game, and setting the edge.”
Young has also identified areas for improvement from last season, specifically his ability to close out games. He is determined to change that in 2024:
“I felt like I had games last year where I needed to close out and didn’t come through, and that’s my number one goal this year,” Young said. “They brought me here to rush the passer, whether it’s a sack or a pressure. I didn’t do enough of that last year, and my goal is to improve. Whether it’s getting off the ball, better technique, or shedding blocks faster, that’s what I’m working on.”
Key plays on third and fourth downs at the end of games are crucial. Donald excelled in these moments, and Young knows he must step up to close games when the Rams have the chance.
The Rams are a team on the rise but must not let the success of 2023 make them complacent. Fortunately, Young and the rest of the team are focused on improving in every area.
Ernest Jones is confident that Chris Shula will be an excellent fit as the Rams’ defensive coordinator. Shula takes over from Raheem Morris, who left to become head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. Jones praises Shula’s steady demeanor and intelligence, believing he will integrate ‘perfectly’ with the Rams.
