Rams Cornerback Depth Analysis for the 2025 Season

Rams Cornerback Depth Analysis for the 2025 Season
Rams Cornerback Depth Analysis for the 2025 Season

As the Rams head into the 2025 NFL season with a roster poised for a deep playoff run, bolstered by the signings of Devante Adams, Poona Ford, Nate Landman, Coleman Shelton, and a strong draft. One position that continues to spark discussion is the cornerback spot. Despite a talented roster, the Rams did not address this position in the 2025 NFL Draft, leaving fans and analysts questioning the depth and quality of the secondary. Here is the current state of the Rams’ cornerback depth, key players, potential concerns, and the possibility of a high-profile reunion with Jalen Ramsey.

Current Cornerback Depth Chart

The Rams’ cornerback room features a mix of veterans and younger players, but the position lacks a clear elite starter. Based on recent reports and projections, the projected depth chart heading into training camp includes:

  • Darious Williams: Williams went undrafted in the 2018 NFL draft. On May 4, 2018, the Baltimore Ravens signed Williams to a three–year, $1.71 million contract as an undrafted free agent. A seasoned veteran entering the second year of a three-year contract signed in 2024. Williams, 32, has no guaranteed money left after this season, raising questions about his long-term role. He started 17 games last season, recording 44 tackles and 2 interceptions, but his performance has been inconsistent at times, and he is on the wrong side of 30.
    • Ht: 5 9″
    • Wt:184 lb
    • 40: 4.44
  • Ahkello Witherspoon: The San Francisco 49ers selected Witherspoon in the third round (66th overall) of the 2017 NFL draft. He has bounced around the league playing for the 49ers, Seahawks, Steelers, and Rams. Re-signed in the offseason on a one-year deal, Witherspoon provides experience but is not considered a lockdown corner. He played in 13 games last season, contributing 30 tackles and 3 passes defended.
    • Ht: 6’2″
    • Wt: 198 lb
    • 40: 4.45
  • Cobie Durant: The Rams selected Durant in the fourth round (142nd overall) of the 2022 NFL draft. In the final year of his rookie contract, Durant has shown flashes of potential. He appeared in 16 games in 2024, with 28 tackles and 6 passes defended, often playing in the slot or as a rotational piece.
    • Ht: 5’9″
    • Wt: 180 lb
    • 40: 4.38
  • Derion Kendrick: Kendrick was selected by the Rams in the sixth round, 212th overall, of the 2022 NFL Draft. In his contract’s final year, Kendrick has been a depth player, logging 22 tackles in 15 games last season. His role has been limited, primarily on special teams or in sub-packages. His 40 time reflects the reason why he has been torched on deep throws several times while in the lineup.
    • Ht: 5’11”
    • Wt: 194 lb
    • 40: 4.79
  • Emmanuel Forbes Jr.: A 2023 first-round pick by the Washington Commanders, and the fastest CB on the roster. Forbes was claimed by the Rams off waivers in December 2024. He played significant snaps in the 2024 regular-season finale but was inactive for the playoffs, suggesting he’s still acclimating to the Rams’ system. His slim build is a common point of discussion, with him being the only cornerback drafted since 2000 to weigh under 170 pounds at the NFL Combine.
    • Ht: 6’1″
    • Wt: 166 lb
    • 40: 4.35
  • Charles Woods, Josh Wallace, Shaun Jolly, and AJ Green III: These players round out the depth, primarily contributing on special teams or as practice-squad options.

Posts on social media have highlighted differing views on the cornerback group. Some argue the Rams are not “thin” at the position, citing Durant, Kendrick, Forbes, and Wallace as solid depth, but noted “serious questions” about starters Williams and Witherspoon. Another projected Jalen Ramsey as a starter, reflecting ongoing speculation about his return.

Strengths and Concerns

The Rams’ cornerback group has depth in numbers, with Durant and Forbes offering upside. Durant’s versatility in the slot and Forbes’ first-round pedigree suggest growth potential. The team’s defensive scheme under coordinator Chris Shula also leans on safeties like Kam Curl and Kam Kinchens, which could alleviate pressure on the corners by using extra defensive back packages.

However, the lack of a true CB1 is a glaring issue. Williams, Durant, and Witherspoon are serviceable but not elite, and their contracts’ lack of long-term guarantees signals the Rams may be looking to upgrade. Derion Kendrick is the slowest of the group, and it has shown when he has been called upon. The team’s failure to draft a cornerback in 2025, despite it being a noted need, has raised concerns. The Rams’ draft focused on depth at other positions, such as linebacker and TE, leaving the secondary unaddressed. This decision has fueled speculation about external acquisitions, with many pointing to a potential trade for Jalen Ramsey.

Jalen Ramsey Trade Rumors

The biggest storyline surrounding the Rams’ cornerback position is the possibility of reuniting with three-time All-Pro Jalen Ramsey. Ramsey, who helped the Rams win Super Bowl LVI in 2021, is on the trade block after he and the Dolphins agreed to explore a move before the 2025 draft. No trade materialized, but the Rams remain a top fit, per USA Today and the Los Angeles Times. Due to salary cap concerns for both teams, any trade is most likely to occur after June 1.

Rams head coach Sean McVay has not ruled out a reunion, stating there are “a lot of layers” to work out but acknowledging Ramsey’s value. A trade would be costly, as Ramsey’s $24 million in guarantees for 2025 is a hurdle, and Miami has been reluctant to cover any of that salary. However, Ramsey’s familiarity with the Rams’ system and his elite skill set—evidenced by 88 tackles and 5 interceptions in 2024—make him an ideal solution to bolster the secondary.

There’s also discussion about Ramsey’s position. Some reports, including Sports Illustrated, suggest he could transition to safety, drawing comparisons to Aeneas Williams’ move with the Rams in 2001. I don’t see this as a fit for the Rams. The Rams’ safeties are the strength of the secondary, and moving Ramsey to safety would not address the CB position.

Training Camp Outlook

The Rams’ decision to bypass cornerbacks in the draft suggests confidence in their current group, or they may be planning to address the position via trade or wait until teams cut down their rosters and pick up another team’s castoff. Asante Samuel Jr. remains a free agent, and there has been some speculation that the Rams could bring him in on a low-cost deal.

The Rams’ schedule offers opportunities to test their secondary early. A Week 3 rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles, who narrowly defeated the Rams in the 2024 playoffs, will challenge the cornerbacks against a potent passing attack. The team’s bye week after a London trip provides a window to integrate new players, should a trade like Ramsey’s materialize.

NFL teams typically carry 5-6 cornerbacks on their 53-man roster, with the exact number sometimes fluctuating based on defensive scheme and coaching philosophy. Some teams might prefer having three starting cornerbacks with added depth behind them, while others may opt for four cornerbacks and an extra safety. The Rams have enough bodies, just not enough quality.

Final Thoughts

The Los Angeles Rams’ cornerback depth for 2025 is a mixed bag—sufficient in numbers but lacking a dominant presence. Darious Williams and Ahkello Witherspoon lead the group, with Cobie Durant and Emmanuel Forbes as intriguing young options, but the position remains a weak link on an otherwise stacked roster. The potential return of Jalen Ramsey looms large, offering a chance to elevate the secondary to elite status. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on whether the Rams make a splash to solidify their defense and cement their Super Bowl aspirations.

About Gary Boutwell 166 Articles
Gary Boutwell is the proud owner and founder of The Rams Forum and, The Rams News, two thriving online communities dedicated to NFL enthusiasts. A lifelong football fan with a particular affinity for the Los Angeles Rams, Gary has turned his passion for the game into a platform where fans can connect, debate, and share their love for the sport. Now retired after a distinguished career in information technology (IT), Gary spends his days writing about the NFL, offering insights, analysis, and commentary that reflect his deep knowledge and enthusiasm for the league.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply