Byron Young, after absolutely wrecking offenses for 12.5 sacks last season, is staring down a massive payday. He told reporters point blank just last week, it’d be “nice to get a contract right now.” This isn’t just a casual ask; this dude is putting up career-high numbers, and the clock is ticking for the Los Angeles Rams to make a tough call before Week 1 even kicks off.
Young’s On-Field Dominance and the Rams’ Tight Squeeze
Young has been a full-time starter for the Rams his entire career, an impactful presence on that defensive front every single season. Last year, 2025, was his breakout: a career-high 12 sacks, 82 tackles, and a ridiculous 40 quarterback pressures. You can’t ignore those numbers. He’s entering a contract year, and he’s made it clear he wants to be rewarded for that effort. The question for general manager Les Snead isn’t *if* Young deserves a huge raise in 2027, but if the Rams can afford to give it to him. They’ve already got some massive deals on the books, including recent offseason grabs like Myles Garrett, Trent McDuffie, and Jaylen Watson. Garrett alone is one of ten edge rushers in the league pulling in $30MM or more per season. While Young probably won’t hit that astronomical level on his second contract, a substantial raise is absolutely coming his way, assuming he avoids injury or a total collapse in production. He’s expected to be working with that starting front four again, and Garrett’s presence opposite him could honestly create even more sack opportunities for Young, and guys like Turner and Braden Fiske. This is where he proves his worth all over again, but the pressure is on the front office to make a move.
Donald’s Return Question and McDuffie’s Elite Play
Speaking of that defensive front, the legendary Aaron Donald was spotted working out with Braden Fiske and Desjuan Johnson just last Sunday. While it’s awesome to see him out there, Donald hasn’t actually made a decision yet about his future. That’s a huge question mark looming over the Rams’ defense, even as other pieces fall into place. On the other side of the ball, Trent McDuffie, one of those big offseason acquisitions, is already elevating the Rams’ wide receivers in practice. Davante Adams, who knows a thing or two about elite play, isn’t just casually complimenting McDuffie. Adams said, “certain guys make plays because they fall into them,” but that’s not McDuffie. Nope. According to Adams, “Trent’s out there doing something every single play… He’s always got the right technique. He’s got a great way of reading you out. He understands his position on any given play, whether it’s his leverage or situationally a smart player and great technique.” That’s high praise for a corner, showing the kind of impact he’s already making and what he brings to that defense. It’s a testament to the type of talent the Rams are investing in, even as they face tough decisions with guys like Young.
The Rams have some serious talent on their roster, but they’re walking a tightrope with the salary cap and impending free agents. Young’s performance this coming season will only drive up his market value, putting Les Snead in a bind. Can they secure their impactful pass rusher, or will another team snatch him up for a huge payday? The clock is ticking before Week 1, and every snap Young takes will be under the microscope. What’s next for this Rams defense, especially with Donald’s decision still hanging in the air? We’ll be watching to see how this all plays out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Turf Show Times.
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