At 1-4 through five weeks of the 2024 season, the Los Angeles Rams looked like a team headed nowhere. With both Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp sidelined, Matthew Stafford was limited, and a defense that had drawn early-season praise wasn’t living up to expectations.
But everything changed after their Week 6 bye. The Rams rallied to a 9-3 finish, captured the NFC West, dominated the Vikings in the Wild Card round, and narrowly lost to the eventual Super Bowl champion Eagles in the Divisional round.
Now heading into 2025, the Rams face new challenges. Cooper Kupp has joined the Seahawks, but they added star receiver Davante Adams. The offense, led by Kyren Williams and a more aggressive man-blocking run scheme, is evolving. Rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson may signal a rare shift for Sean McVay toward 12 personnel sets. Defensively, they’ve beefed up the front with Poona Ford and third-round pick Josaiah Stewart. The hope is to maintain their strong finish — without the rocky start.
But beyond the stars, some under-the-radar contributors could be critical to their success. Here are three “hidden gems” who could shine in 2025:
1. Underrated Veteran: CB Cobie Durant
The Rams’ cornerback group struggled in 2024, allowing 15 touchdowns to just four interceptions. Despite some decent overall coverage stats, the unit lacked consistency — prompting the team to consider a reunion with Jalen Ramsey and take a flyer on former first-rounder Emmanuel Forbes.
However, one standout from last season was Cobie Durant, a 2022 fourth-round pick from South Carolina State. After earning a starting role, Durant impressed with his versatility and football IQ.
Both defensive coordinator Chris Shula and Sean McVay praised Durant for his growth, especially in transitioning from a slot role to outside corner. In 2024, he allowed just 33 receptions on 58 targets for 358 yards, with two interceptions, 10 pass breakups, and a 72.3 opponent passer rating. He was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week in Week 7 and had a standout game locking down Amari Cooper in Week 14.
With his combination of speed, instincts, and coverage flexibility, Durant could take another leap in 2025.
2. Underrated Free-Agent Signing: WR Davante Adams
Though Davante Adams is far from unknown, he’s being overlooked after an underwhelming stint with the Jets, where poor scheming limited his impact. Despite that, he still posted over 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns.
Now in a system tailored to maximize his strengths under McVay, who masterfully uses motion and tight formations Adams could rediscover his elite form. Notably, the Jets never once targeted Adams while he was in pre-snap motion in 2024. That’s likely to change in LA.
Adams expressed excitement about joining the Rams, citing McVay’s long-standing interest in him and the organization’s belief in what he can still offer. With Stafford throwing the ball and McVay drawing up the plays, Adams could be poised for a big-time resurgence.
3. Underrated Draft Pick: LB Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr.
The Rams made a savvy move in selecting Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr. in the fifth round out of Ole Miss. Paul was all over the field in 2024 tallying six sacks, 24 pressures, 73 solo tackles, and impressive coverage numbers, including just one touchdown allowed and four pass breakups.
Paul also posted nine tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to diagnose and disrupt plays something LA desperately needs after being gashed by Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley in their playoff loss.
Though comparing him to Fred Warner may be a stretch now, the similarities in athleticism and potential are there. If Paul develops in a similar trajectory, the Rams may have found a long-term anchor at linebacker.
Bottom Line: The Rams are aiming to build on last season’s late success. With key additions like Adams, emerging talents like Durant, and promising rookies like Paul, this team may have more depth and upside than many realize. These underappreciated players could play pivotal roles in keeping LA atop the NFC West in 2025.
