The Los Angeles Rams Resign Important Defensive Piece
Just days after being released by the Los Angeles Rams, cornerback Derion Kendrick is returning to the City of Angels. In a cap-saving move, the Rams extinguished $3.4 million in cap space by cutting him on Friday, June 13th. The 3rd year pro didn’t last long on the open market as the Rams liked what they had and brought him back. Kendrick will be suiting up for the Rams in 2025 as nothing happened.
The terms of the contract have yet to be released, but it is likely a short-term deal worth a league minimum. His quick return explains that the Clemson product was not highly sought after on the open market, yet he is a valuable contributor to the Rams' weaker cornerback room. It is important to note that Kendrick missed the entirety of the 2024 season with a torn ACL. The Rams showed their faith in his recovery by quickly bringing him back.
In his first two seasons in the NFL, the cornerback has posted a total of 92 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one interception. Through his first 32 games as a pro, he has started in 18 of them, including 10 starts in 2023. Kendrick has been a key contributor, filling in valiantly when his name is called. The 24-year-old will play an important role for the Rams next season.
Kendrick will compete with Darious Williams, Ahkello Witherspoon, Cobie Durant, and Emmanuel Forbes for snaps in the cornerback room. While Kendrick is currently projected to be a backup, an impressive training camp could boost him up the ranks. With his two-year stint on the Rams leading to multiple starts, he has an extra leg up against Forbes in particular. If Kendrick can not earn a starting spot, he will be the next man up in the case of injury.
Additionally, the availability of cornerback Jaire Alexander will be critical to watch as Kendrick eyes a starting spot. The Rams' cornerback room will be greatly important as they race towards a Super Bowl run next season. Resigning Kendrick may not be the last move made in the secondary. Nonetheless, his return likely guarantees his place on the 53-man roster.
