The Los Angeles Rams face some critical decisions with their 2025 free agents as they aim to maintain their competitive edge following a strong 2024 season. With a projected $57.7 million in cap space, they have flexibility, but not every player can or should return. Here’s a breakdown of who should stay and who should go among their key unrestricted free agents, based on their performance, fit, and the team’s needs.
Who Should Stay
- Alaric Jackson (Left Tackle)
Jackson has solidified himself as a reliable starter at left tackle over the past two seasons, protecting Matthew Stafford’s blindside effectively. At 26, he’s still young and improving, with only three sacks allowed in 1,194 pass-blocking snaps over the last two years. He’s the top priority to re-sign, as losing him would force the Rams to address a critical position via free agency or the draft. A long-term deal makes sense if the price is reasonable—potentially in the $15-20 million per year range—though the franchise tag is an option if negotiations stall. - Michael Hoecht (Outside Linebacker/Defensive Lineman)
Hoecht’s versatility is a major asset. He can play as an edge rusher, drop into coverage, or line up inside, and he’s a core special teams contributor. At 27, he’s not a star but a valuable rotational piece, especially with Jared Verse and Byron Young ahead of him. His familiarity with the defense and affordable price tag—likely a short-term deal around $3-5 million per year—make him worth keeping. - Jimmy Garoppolo (Quarterback)
As Stafford’s backup, Garoppolo proved he can step in and run the offense competently, as seen in his Week 18 performance in 2024. With Stafford turning 37 and no strong quarterback prospects in the draft, retaining an experienced backup is smart. A one-year deal in the $5-7 million range keeps the Rams secure at the position without committing long-term. - Ahkello Witherspoon (Cornerback)
Witherspoon emerged as the Rams’ top corner late in 2024, excelling in coverage with a strong passer rating allowed. With Cobie Durant and Darious Williams under contract but the secondary needing depth, re-signing him on a modest two-year deal (around $8-10 million total) bolsters a thin position group. - Christian Rozeboom (Inside Linebacker)
Rozeboom stepped up alongside Omar Speights, ranking high in coverage metrics from Weeks 9-17. Inside linebacker remains a weak spot, and while he’s not a star, his experience and solid play make him a cost-effective depth piece. A one-year deal at $2-3 million keeps him as a bridge while the Rams seek upgrades.
Who Should Go
- Tutu Atwell (Wide Receiver)
Atwell has shown flashes, ranking 20th in yards per route run in 2023 among players with 200+ routes, but he doesn’t fit long-term. With Puka Nacua as the clear WR1 and Cooper Kupp’s future uncertain, the Rams need a more consistent third receiver. Atwell could thrive elsewhere as a No. 3, but his inconsistent role in LA suggests it’s time to part ways. - Demarcus Robinson (Wide Receiver)
Robinson had a breakout 2024, but at 31, his production has been inconsistent throughout his career, and off-field issues midseason raise concerns. The Rams could prioritize younger talent like Jordan Whittington or a free-agent splash (e.g., Tee Higgins) over re-signing him, especially if his price climbs above $5-7 million annually. - Joe Noteboom (Offensive Tackle)
Noteboom’s tenure has been plagued by injuries and poor performance, and his $20 million cap hit in 2025 makes him a prime cut candidate. The Rams should move on, saving cap space and relying on younger depth or a draft pick to replace him. - Bobby Brown III (Nose Tackle)
Brown started in 2024 but played fewer snaps than Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske. At 24, he has potential, but the Rams’ defensive line is already stout with younger talent. Unless he takes a cheap deal (under $3 million), he’s expendable, especially if they target a veteran like Neville Gallimore. - Troy Reeder (Inside Linebacker)
Reeder’s time in LA seems done. He didn’t reclaim a role after returning from IR, overshadowed by Rozeboom and Speights. The Rams need a significant upgrade at linebacker, and Reeder doesn’t justify a roster spot unless it’s solely for special teams at a minimal cost.
Other Considerations
- Tyler Johnson (Wide Receiver): A fringe player who showed flashes but isn’t critical. Let him walk unless he’s dirt-cheap.
- Conor McDermott (Offensive Lineman): Missed 2024 on IR; depth is covered elsewhere.
- Larrell Murchison (Defensive Lineman): Injury derailed his year; not a priority.
Final Thoughts
The Rams should focus on retaining Jackson to anchor the offensive line, Hoecht for defensive flexibility, and Garoppolo for quarterback stability, while adding Witherspoon and Rozeboom for depth. Letting go of Atwell, Robinson, Noteboom, Brown, and Reeder frees up resources to pursue upgrades at wide receiver, linebacker, and cornerback—positions that could elevate them back to Super Bowl contention in 2025. With Stafford’s window narrowing, balancing cost-effective re-signings with strategic additions will be key.
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