CBS Sports’ Jared Dubin outlined a compelling path for the Los Angeles Rams to take the NFC West crown in 2025: seamlessly integrate Davante Adams and see a young defense make a significant leap. On paper, it’s plausible. In practice, the Rams will need more than just fireworks on offense and potential on defense to pull it off.
Davante Adams’ Success Is Dependent on Stafford, Who Is Dependent on the O-Line.
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Let’s start with Adams. His addition gives the Rams more formation flexibility than Cooper Kupp ever could, allowing Sean McVay to deploy Adams and Puka Nacua interchangeably. When Matthew Stafford has two elite receivers and a clean pocket, history shows the Rams become a top-5 offense almost by default. But that’s a big “if.”
The offensive line remains a major concern. Left tackle Alaric Jackson is dealing with blood clots, an issue that goes beyond football. Veteran right tackle Rob Havenstein is recovering from surgeries on both shoulders and missed OTAs. And while Coleman Shelton is back at center, his 2023 regression was notable. Without a reliable line, even the Stafford-Adams-Nacua trio won’t save the offense.
Can The Back End Hold Up Its End Of The Bargain?
Defensively, Dubin is right to be bullish on the young core. Jared Verse, Braden Fiske, and Kobie Turner could form one of the NFL’s most disruptive lines in a year or two. But for 2025? The supporting cast around them is still unproven. The linebacker unit lacks a clear leader, and the cornerback room—aside from Quentin Lake—remains thin and volatile. That’s a risky setup in a division featuring Brock Purdy’s precision, Kyler Murray’s speed, and Sam Darnold’s cannon.
Yes, there’s a real pathway to an NFC West title, but it’s a tightrope walk. If the offensive line falters or the defense fails to mature quickly, the Rams’ high ceiling may once again come with a low floor.
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