This stat shows why the Rams biggest need in off-season is edge rusher…

This stat shows why the Rams biggest need in 2024 is edge rusher
Rams edge rushers have one of the worst pass-rush win-rates in the NFL

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Blaine Grisak



One of the biggest needs for the Los Angeles Rams this offseason will be the edge rusher position. After cutting Leonard Floyd in the offseason, the Rams opted to go into the year with Michael Hoecht who was transitioning from defense end and rookie Byron Young on the edge.

While Young has had some good moments, especially early, he has slowed down after hitting a rookie wall. Meanwhile, Hoecht has grown more comfortable on the edge as the season has progressed. With that said, the lack of pressure coming from the edge from the Rams defense has been noticeable.

According to Brett Kollmann, the Rams have the second-lowest pass-rush win rate this season ahead of only the New York Giants. Pro Football Focus has Hoecht with a win percentage of just 11.1 percent while Young’s win percentage is 8.3 percent. Out of 58 qualifying edge players, Hoecht and Young rank 42nd and 51st in win percentage.

Without a doubt, the Rams will be looking to address the edge rusher position this offseason. Depending on who actually ends up hitting the free agent market, this could be a good class featuring Josh Allen, Brian Burns, Josh Uche, and others. While there is no elite edge rusher in the draft, there will still be some first-round talent that the Rams will be able to choose from. Jared Verse from Florida State, Penn State’s Chop Robinson, Laiatu Latu from UCLA, and Ohio State’s J.T. Tuimoloau will all be options.

Byron Young’s year of experience will help him and the Rams will likely look to keep Hoecht in the rotation. However, they need someone that can consistently get to the quarterback. It wouldn’t be surprising to see them double-dip and sign an edge rusher while also drafting a player. They will look to continue developing Nick Hampton and Ochaun Mathis, but they need to add quality and experience to the rotation.

The Rams have surprised and made the postseason this year, but this is still a roster with glaring holes. Edge rusher is certainly one of them. Given the glaring lack of pressure on the edge this season, it should be considered the Rams’ biggest need.