Los Angeles Rams Boost Defense with Myles Garrett Trade

The Los Angeles Rams revamped their defense this offseason, adding Myles Garrett, Trent McDuffie, and Jaylen Watson to a unit that already ranked top-five in PFN's Defense Impact metric last season.

What's the Current Defense Ranking?

The Houston Texans are currently ranked as the NFL's top defense entering the 2026 campaign, with the Rams closely following.

The Rams had the No. 5-ranked defense last season, while the Texans were No. 2 in PFN's Defense Impact metric.

Why Aren't the Rams No. 1?

Ian Cummings, PFN's analyst, believes the Texans have the edge due to their continuity and system, but notes that the Rams could dethrone them by the end of the season.

The Rams' defense was already strong, allowing 20.4 points per game last season, and now they add Garrett, who broke the single-season sack record with 23 sacks.

What's Next for the Rams?

The Los Angeles Rams will face the San Francisco 49ers on September 11, 2026, in their next game.

The Rams' improved defense will be put to the test as they aim to become the NFL's best defense in 2026.

Garrett's addition is expected to make a significant impact, drawing double teams and setting a hard edge in the run game.

The Rams also fixed their weakness in the back end by trading for McDuffie and signing Watson.

Cummings called Garrett "the best trump card you could hope to have on the defensive side."

The Rams' defense has improved tenfold in just one offseason, and they could potentially dethrone the Texans as the NFL's best defense.