ESPN’s Aaron Schatz made a clear call this week: the Los Angeles Rams need to extend safety Quentin Lake before his rookie deal expires. If you’ve watched Lake’s growth over the past two seasons, it’s hard to disagree.
Originally a sixth-round pick in 2022, Lake has carved out a key role as both a starting strong safety and a dependable slot defender.
Quentin Lake Is A Key Player For The Los Angeles Rams
He started 16 games in 2024 and finished with 111 tackles, 2 sacks, 5 pass breakups, and 7 pressures. His versatility helped the Rams lead the league in DVOA against slot receivers, a stat that directly reflects his value in coverage and run support.
The numbers tell part of the story, 174 total tackles and 3 sacks over three seasons, but the impact goes deeper.
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He was second in tackles on the team last season behind Rozeboom. Coaches trust Lake, who is steady in his assignments and rarely makes mental mistakes. He’ll be just 27 in 2026 with his best football still ahead.
But here’s the question: Will Les Snead actually pay him? Historically, the Rams’ GM hasn’t invested much in the safety position. Jordan Fuller, John Johnson, and Taylor Rapp are some examples in recent years. L.A. has often let starting-caliber safeties walk rather than extend them.
That’s what makes this different. Lake isn’t just a safety; he’s become the Rams’ most consistent piece on the back end and a versatile asset. The only question is what’s a good price to keep him for? If they want continuity and leadership in a young secondary, this is the type of extension they can’t afford to put off.