It was by no means a flashy move but the addition of Nate Landman in free agency could pay dividends for the Los Angeles Rams this year. The former Atlanta Falcons linebacker joins the Rams as a potential starter in the middle of their defense, a position that became a weakness last season following the unexpected trade of Ernest Jones before Week 1.
Landman went from being an undrafted free agent to starting for the Falcons in the last two years and he’s looking to maintain a spot atop the depth chart in L.A. this season. He’s seemingly off to a good start because defensive coordinator Chris Shula complimented him earlier in the offseason and now inside linebackers coach Greg Williams is doing the same.
Advertisement
Rams staff writer Wyatt Miller asked Williams about each of the team’s inside linebackers and Landman received some high praise from his coach.
“He’s come in and guys respect him just from where he’s been and what he’s done,” Williams said. “He’s taken into our defense just seamlessly.”
His communication pre-snap and on the field overall has impressed his coaches, helping keep younger defenders on their toes in anticipation of what play might be coming.
The Rams have leaders on defense in Quentin Lake, Kamren Curl and Kobie Turner, but having a middle linebacker who can relay calls and align the entire unit should help – assuming Landman grabs hold of the starting spot.
Advertisement
“‘Hey, if my guy does this, I’ll give you an in-call right away just because this is what I’m anticipating,'” Williams recalled Landman saying. “And it’s really good when it comes from the players because he gives them a view from behind the face mask.”
Landman started 23 games for the Falcons the last two years, making 191 tackles with one interception and four passes defensed. He really excels against the run, which was a trouble spot for the Rams last season as they ranked 22nd in rushing yards allowed and 26th in yards per carry given up.
His presence should help improve the run defense right away, as will his leadership and communication.
Follow Rams Wire on X, Facebook and Threads for more coverage!
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams ILBs coach: Nate Landman ‘seamlessly’ fits into LA’s defense