NFC West: Quick-take 2020 projection for 49ers, their rivals
By Peter Panacy
Los Angeles Rams
Notable Additions: EDGE Leonard Floyd, DT A’Shawn Robinson
Notable Subtractions: RB Todd Gurley, EDGE Clay Matthews, DL Michael Brockers, LB Cory Littleton, EDGE Dante Fowler, CB Nickell Robey-Coleman
Round 1 NFL Draft Picks: None
Two seasons ago, the Rams’ Super Bowl window appeared as wide open as ever, as the team was armed with offensive talent across the board and had a defense comprised of superstars like defensive tackles Aaron Donald and Ndamukong Suh.
After a disappointing 9-7 finish last season, including two gut-punch losses to the 49ers, Los Angeles appears to be hitting the reset button.
It has to, considering those massive deals dished out to Todd Gurley and quarterback Jared Goff.
Gurley being let go isn’t surprising. Last year proved he was no longer a focal point of head coach Sean McVay’s offense. And now, wide receiver Brandin Cooks has appeared on the trade block, per reports.
McVay’s once high-powered offense will look different in 2020, yes. But consider all those defensive departures mentioned above. Tack on losing defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, and it’s not out of the realm of suggestion to think the Rams defense could be the worst within the NFC West this year.
As long as the 49ers maintain any sort of offensive continuity this upcoming season, that’s a bonus.