The Los Angeles Rams finished the season graded by Pro Football Focus as the 15th-best run defense in the league, but allowed the 8th most yards per attempt last season. For teams that remained committed to the run through all four quarters of the game, they reaped big rewards against that team. This included two games against the Philadelphia Eagles, including a 285-yard ground performance that bounced the Rams from the playoffs. Earlier that season, they allowed 314 yards to the Eagles.
There were only four games last season that which the Rams’ defense held opponents under 100 yards rushing. In an attempt to improve their run defense, they added Poona Ford in free agency, who posted a PFF run defense grade of 80.3, the third-best among all defensive linemen last year.
Ty Hamilton Can Help The Los Angeles Rams Stop The Run
They also invested in their interior in the draft. In the 5th round, they selected Ohio State DT Ty Hamilton. With a good amount of development, Hamilton could move into a quality rotational role for the team as early as this season.
Hamilton demonstrates initial quickness and block awareness, enabling him to initiate leveraged contact, effectively stack blocks, generate push, and shed against the run. While possessing one-gap traits, he employs two-gap techniques and was often tasked with demanding responsibilities in college, contributing to the success of the linebackers.
Hamilton displays a quick, forceful, and urgent style that creates disruption within the defensive structure. Although pass-rush development is needed, his coachable attitude and positional versatility elevate his NFL floor, suggesting the potential to become a valuable role player and, ultimately, a starter.
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