Rams Building the NFL’s Best Young Defensive Front
The Los Angeles Rams find themselves in a prime position within their division, boasting a talented young core on both offense and defense. While veteran leadership remains in key areas, it is the Rams’ youthful defensive unit that has the potential to transform the team into an early Super Bowl contender—provided they stay healthy and continue their upward trajectory. The latest addition to this defensive core is Poona Ford, a disruptive force in the middle of the defensive line. Ford, a former Texas Longhorn, originally signed as an undrafted free agent with the Seattle Seahawks, where he spent four productive seasons before playing for the Buffalo Bills in 2023 and the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024. With the Chargers, Ford was a key contributor to the NFL’s number one scoring defense, showcasing his ability to clog rushing lanes and disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
Ford’s signing signals two key things for the Rams. First, it suggests that the team does not feel Tyler Davis is quite ready to assume a significant role in the interior defensive line. Second, it likely means the team is moving on from Bobby Brown. With Ford joining a defense that already has stability and a strong core in place, his presence elevates a unit on the verge of dominance. A crucial aspect of Ford’s game is his underrated pass-rushing ability. While he primarily thrives as a run-stuffer, his ability to command double teams could allow fellow linemen like Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske to be more effective. If Ford is utilized properly, Turner may also be able to get more rest during games, ensuring he remains fresh for critical moments late in contests.
The Rams have made their intentions clear: they want to dominate the trenches. With NFC West rivals improving their ground games, the Rams are fortifying their defensive front to neutralize those threats. Ford joins a defensive line already featuring talented young players such as edge rushers Jared Verse and Byron Young. This unit is poised to be one of the most fearsome young defensive cores in the NFL. Ford’s presence not only fills a critical need but also complements the existing pieces in a way that could allow the Rams to take the next step toward becoming a top-tier defense.
Statistically, the Rams needed help against the run last season, finishing 29th in yards per rush allowed and 21st in rush defense success rate. While the defense showed improvement as the season progressed, the addition of Ford provides a significant boost in an area that needed addressing. With a stacked defensive front loaded with young, high-upside talent, the Rams are positioning themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the NFC. If their defense takes the expected leap in 2025, don’t be surprised to see this team in the Super Bowl conversation.
