More shocking news came out from Chargers headquarters today when they announced former Rams defensive tackle and Super Bowl champion Sebastian Joseph-Day would be waived.
Joseph-Day, a six-year NFL veteran, spent his first four years in the league with the Rams. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, the former Rutgers standout primarily served the team in his traditional run-stopping role. He would join the Chargers with former Rams defensive coordinator Brandon Staley and now with Staley’s departure, the Chargers seem set on ridding themselves of his hand-picked players.
Joseph-Day’s availability must definitely be discussed as the Rams, who have had to deal with a several defensive injuries in 2023, could use some much-needed veteran depth. Joseph-Day is familiar with Raheem Morris’ scheme but in the one year they had together, he only played in eight games due to injury, so one would have to account for an adjustment period if he returned to the Rams.
Here’s the cold-hard truth: SJD will be picked up by somebody. He started every game this year for the Chargers, he’s still an NFL-caliber run-stopper and he’s healthy. Acquiring talent of his level at this point in the season is rare and the Rams aren’t suited to bring him back.
If the Rams put in a waiver claim, they’d have to take on the remainder of his contract, which comes with a cap hit of $10 million in 2024.
Even if he clears, multiple teams will be putting in bids to get him on their roster. The only way the Rams should sign SJD is if he becomes a permanent practice squad player so the team has added depth in case of injury.
However, this won’t happen. Some team will put him in a position to get playing time, something the Rams can’t promise.
Despite his upside, the Rams should keep the status quo and pass on a reunion with Joseph-Day.