How Myles Garrett launches Los Angeles Rams defense into an entirely new stratum
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Los Angeles Rams made a major offseason trade to acquire All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett, significantly upgrading their pass rush and bolstering their defense alongside a strong offense.
- Garrett, who will turn 31 this season, is considered one of the greatest pass rushers and offers a substantial improvement over young pass rusher Jared Verse, providing a reliable finisher who can pressure quarterbacks more effectively.
- Defensive coordinator Chris Shula’s creative schemes, which relied heavily on simulated pressures, will benefit from Garrett’s presence, allowing the Rams to simplify pass rush strategies and reduce risky coverage rotations.
- The Rams also strengthened their secondary by trading for All-Pro corner Trent McDuffie and signing Jaylen Watson, improving man coverage and complementing their two-high-safety defensive scheme.
- These moves address previous weaknesses exposed in the playoffs, particularly in man coverage and pass rush consistency, positioning the Rams as a top defensive team and serious Super Bowl contenders.