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The Rams have been proactive in bolstering their roster this offseason, with a particular focus on strengthening their defense. The Rams did not draft a CB in the 2025 NFL draft, and there is widespread speculation that the Rams are looking to bring back Jalen Ramsey. The re-signing of veteran cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon to a one-year deal was a prudent move, but questions remain. Should the Rams pursue free agent Asante Samuel Jr., formerly of the Los Angeles Chargers?
Asante Samuel Jr.: A High-Potential Target for the Rams
As the Rams look to address their thin cornerback depth, one name has emerged as a compelling free-agent target: Asante Samuel Jr., a 25-year-old cornerback recently released by the Los Angeles Chargers. Samuel, a second-round pick in 2021, brings a blend of youth, pedigree, and untapped potential that aligns with the Rams’ defensive needs.
Samuel’s career with the Chargers showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in 2023, when he earned a 75.6 coverage grade and a 73.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking among the top cornerbacks in the league. Over his first three seasons, he recorded six interceptions and 137 tackles, demonstrating his ability to make plays in coverage and contribute in run support. However, his 2024 season was derailed by a shoulder injury that limited him to just four games, and he struggled to fit into the defensive scheme under new Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Jesse Minter.
Despite these setbacks, Samuel’s youth and skill set make him an attractive option for the Rams. At 5’10” and 180 pounds, he fits the mold of the smaller, agile cornerbacks the Rams have favored in recent years, such as Cobie Durant (5’11”, 182 lbs.) and Darious Williams (5’9”, 192 lbs.). His quickness and ability to jump routes in the flat make him a potential asset in zone-heavy schemes, though his tackling (16.7% missed tackle rate per PFF) remains a concern, particularly for a team that values physicality in its secondary.
Analysts, including Bill Barnwell of ESPN and Christian D’Andrea of The Sporting News, have identified the Rams as an ideal landing spot for Samuel. The team’s current cornerback group, which includes Witherspoon, Durant, Williams, and the unproven Emmanuel Forbes Jr., lacks a clear top option. Samuel, on a likely one-year “prove-it” deal, could compete for a starting role while benefiting from the Rams’ cohesive coaching staff and positive locker room culture. Additionally, signing Samuel would allow the Rams to push less consistent players like Forbes or Derion Kendrick further down the depth chart, enhancing overall secondary depth.
Strategic Implications for the Rams’ Defense
The Rams’ decision to re-sign Witherspoon and pursue a player like Samuel reflects a broader strategy of balancing immediate reliability with long-term upside. Witherspoon’s return provides continuity and leadership, ensuring the secondary remains functional while younger players develop. His $1.255 million contract for 2025, fully guaranteed, is a cost-effective move for a player who played 98% of defensive snaps in the Rams’ playoff loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last season.
Meanwhile, targeting Samuel represents a calculated gamble on a high-upside player who could elevate the unit. The Rams’ secondary struggled with consistency in 2024, allowing a 103.1 passer rating when Witherspoon was targeted. Adding a player like Samuel, who has shown elite coverage skills when healthy, could help address this issue, particularly if he can stay on the field and adapt to Shula’s system.
The Rams’ draft strategy further contextualizes these moves. Despite needs in the secondary, the team opted not to select a cornerback in the 2025 NFL Draft, instead focusing on linebackers and a defensive tackle. This decision suggests confidence in their current group and a preference for addressing the position through free agency, where players like Samuel offer proven talent at a potentially lower cost than a high draft pick.
Challenges and Considerations
While the combination of Witherspoon and Samuel could strengthen the Rams’ secondary, challenges remain. Witherspoon’s age and lack of elite speed limit his ceiling, and his one-year deal means the team must continue planning for the future. Samuel, meanwhile, must prove he can overcome his injury history and improve his tackling to earn a full-time starting role. The Rams also face competition for Samuel, as other teams with secondary needs may view him as a low-risk, high-reward signing.
Additionally, the Rams’ salary cap constraints limit their ability to make splashy moves. With significant investments in offensive stars like Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams, general manager Les Snead must prioritize cost-effective signings. Witherspoon’s modest contract fits this approach, and Samuel’s likely affordable deal would align with it as well. However, the team must weigh whether to allocate resources to other positions, such as safety, where veterans like Kamren Kinchens and Kam Curl are already in place.
Looking Ahead
The Rams’ moves at cornerback are part of a broader effort to build a championship-caliber roster. Head coach Sean McVay’s emphasis on a connected, resilient team culture has been a driving force behind Witherspoon’s retention, as evidenced by his comments praising the veteran’s fit within the organization. Samuel, if signed, would benefit from this environment, potentially revitalizing his career in a system that values his skill set.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Rams’ secondary will be a focal point. Witherspoon’s reliability and Samuel’s potential could form a complementary pairing, with Witherspoon anchoring the unit and Samuel adding a dynamic playmaking element. If the Rams can integrate these players effectively, they may transform a position of weakness into a strength, positioning themselves for a deep playoff run.
The Rams’ strategy of retaining Ahkello Witherspoon and targeting Asante Samuel Jr. reflects a savvy blend of pragmatism and ambition. Witherspoon’s proven production and leadership provide a foundation, while Samuel’s youth and upside offer a path to long-term improvement. As Los Angeles continues to refine its roster, these moves could prove pivotal in their quest for another Super Bowl title.
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