Rams Face 2025 Challenges with Underrated Players, Defense Ranking, Offensive Strength

As the Los Angeles Rams prepare for the 2025 NFL season, their roster features three players on CBS Sports analyst Pete Prisco's top 100 list: edge rusher Jared Verse at No. 54, and wide receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams at Nos. 63 and 91 respectively, while notable players like quarterback Matthew Stafford and running back Kyren Williams were omitted. Verse, the 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year, is expected to have a breakout sack season, while Nacua, despite missing games due to injury, has shown strong receiving capabilities, and Adams brings veteran experience though age is a factor. The Rams' defense, ranked 24th by Pro Football Network's Kyle Soppe, faces questions about secondary performance and linebacker depth, compounded by the departure of star Aaron Donald and limited early draft picks for defensive reinforcements. Although the Rams reclaimed the NFC West title in 2024, analysts like USA Today's Nate Davis project a potential fall to as low as fourth place this season, citing a flawed defense, injury uncertainties, aging key veterans, and strong divisional rivals including the Seahawks, 49ers, and Cardinals. Offensively, the Rams are ranked 11th by Soppe, bolstered by the return of Stafford, addition of Adams replacing Cooper Kupp, and emerging talents like Nacua, with hopes for a balanced, productive attack that could result in a top-10 finish if cohesion is achieved.