Everyone’s doing season previews — but we’re doing something different. The
Captains’ Code is all about what really makes or breaks an NFL team. It’s not just about rosters or vibes. It’s about the identity, the pressure points, the bold calls, and the one thing that could send everything crashing down… or finally take them over the top. No filler. Just straight-up football breakdowns that tell you what actually matters heading into 2025.
The X-Factor That Will Make or Break This Season
Injuries. If Los Angeles struggles with them, they’re not going far. As we saw last season, when top receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp were both out for a large portion of the year, LA struggled to win before they returned. Sure, the Rams still made the NFC Championship Game, but those injuries came in the early and middle parts of the season. They can’t afford to have major injuries to Nacua, new star Davante Adams, Matthew Stafford, and Kyren Williams. All four are critical to the team’s success, and if one goes down during the playoffs, the season could be finished.
Last Year’s Numbers:
In the 2024 NFL regular season, the Los Angeles Rams offense ranked 20th in points scored per game with 21.6. They were 10th in passing yards per game with 227.5, but their rushing offense was less successful, ranking 24th with 103.8 yards per game. Overall, the Rams offense ranked 20th in total yards per game with 331.4. Defensively, they allowed 386 points (22.7/g), ranking 17th. Their turnover differential was tied for 10th overall.
Key Player(s) to Watch: The Heroes and the Wild Cards
On offense: Puka Nacua, Davante Adams, Matthew Stafford, and Kyren Williams. On defense: Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske, Jared Verse, Byron Young, Jaylen McCollough, and Kamren Kinchens.
Nacua and Adams are two of the NFL’s best receivers. Stafford is a top-10 quarterback when healthy. Williams has rushed for 1,100+ yards in each of the past two seasons, and if he stays healthy, LA can contend.
Defensively, Turner had 8 sacks last year and could become a star in Year 3. Fiske recorded 8.5 sacks and two forced fumbles, proving himself a franchise cornerstone. His college teammate, Jared Verse—the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year—had 4.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and was a tackling machine. Byron Young chipped in 7.5 sacks and a forced fumble; he could be poised for a breakout season.
Lastly, McCollough and Kinchens both had strong rookie seasons and could take another step forward in Year 2.
Coaching: What’s Different This Year?
Not much in terms of coaching changes—just a few new hires. The major change is the signing of Davante Adams, replacing Rams legend Cooper Kupp, who joined the rival Seahawks. The Rams also had a strong draft. Tight end Terrance Ferguson was a great pick at #46 overall. Trading out of the first round gave LA more future draft capital. Other key selections include OLB Josaiah Stewart, ILB Chris Paul Jr. (no relation to the NBA star), RB Jaquez Hunter, DT Ty Hamilton, and WR Konata Mumpfield.
The Bold Prediction
If healthy, three Rams defenders—Turner, Fiske, and possibly Young—will record 10+ sacks. In the secondary, Kinchens and McCollough could each notch at least 3 interceptions, with Kam Curl also in the mix.
On offense, I’m predicting:
Kyren Williams rushes for around 1,500 yards
Matthew Stafford throws 30+ touchdowns
Puka Nacua tops 1,400 receiving yards
Davante Adams reaches 1,000 yards in his first year with LA
Of course, none of this happens if key players get injured. Healthy, they can win the Super Bowl. Injured, they could miss the playoffs.
The Realistic Win Total & Why
Floor: 8-9
Ceiling: 13-4
If there’s no injuries, this team is going far. However, a couple of big injuries could pull them down to the floor. Realistically I believe this team goes 11-6 or 12-5. Both great records, but considering a few injuries, this team goes 11-6.
The Biggest Question Mark Heading Into 2025
The biggest concerns are health and the offensive line. The OL isn’t terrible, but it’s far from elite. With Andrew Whitworth long retired and several top linemen gone, Kevin Dotson needs to repeat his great 2024 season, and Steve Avila must continue his growth. Both staying healthy is critical.
My Takeaway
If the Rams stay healthy, they’re winning and they’re a playoff-bound force no team wants to see on the schedule.
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