Fans watched as the L.A. Rams‘ defense matured this season with the addition of rookies Jared Verse and Braden Fiske. While the team moved past Aaron Donald and strengthened the defense, the Rams are always looking for ways to improve. One analyst suggests a key free agent to boost their efforts.
Jordan Dajani of CBS Sports recommended the Rams focus on signing two-time Super Bowl champion linebacker Nick Bolton in free agency:
“The Rams have a talented defensive front with Braden Fiske, Jared Verse, Byron Young, and others. Now, they need a veteran linebacker to anchor the second level, and that’s Nick Bolton. He averages over eight tackles per game across 57 games, recorded a career-high three sacks in 2024, and nearly claimed Super Bowl MVP honors a few years ago after his scoop-and-score against the Eagles. Bolton’s skill and leadership would be invaluable in L.A.”
This season, Bolton totaled 106 tackles, set career highs in sacks (3.0), and notched 7 QB hits in 16 starts. The fourth-year linebacker has been a consistent presence in Steve Spagnuolo’s defense since the Chiefs drafted him in 2021.
Bolton, a key player in the Chiefs’ defense, led the team in both total tackles and tackles for loss this season, marking the second time in four years he’s achieved that feat.
During his second season, Bolton amassed an impressive 180 combined tackles as the Chiefs captured their first of back-to-back Super Bowl titles. His crucial 36-yard fumble return in Super Bowl 2023 helped shift the momentum in the Chiefs’ favor, even though Patrick Mahomes took home the MVP.
Considering the youthful nature of the Rams’ defense, adding a leader like Bolton could elevate their unit. With linebacker being a major area of need, general manager Les Snead and the front office should prioritize addressing it this offseason.
The Rams face numerous roster decisions, including regarding Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp, and are expected to be active in the offseason. Time will tell if Bolton or any other key defenders will be part of the Rams’ future plans.
