Two of the most recognizable names on the Los Angeles Rams’ coaching staff (besides Sean McVay) won’t be back with the team in 2020. Defensive coordinator Wade Phillips’ contract expired and was not renewed by the Rams. Special teams coordinator John Fassel’s contract also came to an end, and it didn’t take him long to find a new landing spot as he’s expected to be hired by the Cowboys to join Mike McCarthy’s staff.
It’s unclear if the Rams tried to retain Fassel by extending his contract or if they were willing to let him leave like Phillips, but either way, this is bad news for Los Angeles. “Bones” is an outstanding special teams coach and it’s easy to see why McCarthy wanted to bring him to Dallas to hopefully fix the Cowboys’ underperforming special teams unit.
While it’ll be difficult to replace Phillips and Fassel with coaches of the same caliber, these departures will have a ripple effect on the Rams’ free agents. Three key starters on defense will hit free agency in March, as will Greg Zuerlein and JoJo Natson (RFA).
The front office and head coach have the ultimate say in who returns and who leaves, but the new coordinators will also have some input on those players – or, at least they should.
Will new DC change scheme from 3-4 to 4-3?
If the Rams promote from within by elevating either Aubrey Pleasant or Joe Barry, a switch to a 4-3 defense seems highly unlikely. However, if McVay hires an outside candidate, a change to the defensive front can’t be ruled out.
On paper, it’s hard to see the Rams switching to a 4-3 defense. If Dante Fowler Jr. leaves, that would give the defense very little talent at defensive end; Clay Matthews, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo and Samson Ebukam all fit better as outside linebackers in a 3-4.
The Rams would also have to rely on inside linebackers more often in a 4-3 scheme. Last season, they really only played Cory Littleton there with an extra defensive back taking the other linebacker’s place. Troy Reeder, Micah Kiser and Travin Howard would all be candidates to fit in a 4-3 defense, but their snap counts will increase dramatically if the Rams make the switch. That may not be something Los Angeles feels comfortable with.
A move to a 4-3 would also impact Michael Brockers, who wouldn’t be a great fit in that scheme after shedding weight to fit in the Rams’ current 3-4 defense. He may no longer have the size or bulk to hold up full-time at nose tackle in a 4-3.