The Los Angeles Rams are heading into a pivotal 2025 season with key players under pressure to perform. In a team known for its young talent, some veterans are on the brink of being replaced. Cornerback Cobie Durant, tight end Colby Parkinson, and corner Emmanuel Forbes are all facing scrutiny as their contracts near expiration. Special teams kicker Joshua Karty also finds himself in a precarious position after a mixed performance last season.

Durant's inconsistent play in the secondary leaves the door open for new acquisitions in the upcoming draft. Parkinson must prove he can be an effective target for quarterback Matthew Stafford, while Forbes, a former first-round pick, risks being cut if he can't elevate his game. Karty’s kicking accuracy needs to improve significantly to alleviate concerns about his reliability. With the potential for roster changes looming, these players must step up to secure their futures with the Rams.

The Washington Commanders are in need of reinforcements for their secondary, particularly at cornerback, after a tumultuous previous season. Rookie Mike Sainristil has emerged as a key player, stepping up in various roles. However, with Emmanuel Forbes traded and Benjamin St-Juste struggling, the Commanders are eyeing the NFL Draft for a potential Day 2 cornerback target in Florida State's Azareye'h Thomas.

Thomas is known for his natural movement skills, quick feet, and physical playstyle, making him a fitting candidate for new head coach Dan Quinn's defensive scheme. The addition of Marshon Lattimore, a four-time Pro Bowler, and the re-signing of Noah Igbinoghene add to a revitalized group. Landing Thomas with the 61st pick could significantly bolster Washington’s pass defense.

The Washington Commanders have turned a new leaf with the selection of quarterback Jayden Daniels at the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, marking a significant milestone in the franchise's history. This selection has sparked hope after years of struggle to find a consistent quarterback. Daniels led the team to its best season in over three decades, overshadowing the disappointments of prior first-round picks like Jahan Dotson, Jamin Davis, and Emmanuel Forbes, who have since been released or traded.

Despite this recent success, the Commanders’ track record over the last decade shows a mixed bag, with recent first-round picks ranking them low among the NFL. However, the impact of Daniels has been profound, emphasizing the importance of a franchise quarterback. The team's recent trades, particularly sending Dotson to a division rival, indicate a new direction under general manager Adam Peters, who appears to be moving the team forward after years of missteps.

The Los Angeles Rams are gearing up for the NFL draft season, with a focus on bolstering their roster through strategic selections. The mock draft forecasts their first-round pick, targeting Jahdae Barron, a cornerback from Texas. His addition is vital due to the impending free agency of incumbent player Ahkello Witherspoon and uncertainty surrounding Emmanuel Forbes. Barron, known for his ball skills and versatility, fits the Rams' defensive schemes well.

Barron’s impressive college performance, contributing to Texas’ back-to-back playoff appearances, suggests he has the potential to develop into a key player for the Rams. With the potential for a crowded defensive backfield, he could excel in a nickel corner role alongside Darius Williams and Cobie Durant.

The Los Angeles Rams have announced their inactive players ahead of the NFC Championship game against the Philadelphia Eagles. QB Stetson Bennett, WR Tyler Johnson, and S John Johnson III lead the list of players unable to participate. Bennett will still be dressed as the team's emergency third quarterback. Johnson, who is a free agent at season's end, is once again sidelined due to strong competition among receivers. The Rams are opting for Emmanuel Forbes in place of John Johnson III, as Forbes has experience against the Eagles.

OL Justin Dedich, OL Joe Noteboom, and OL AJ Arcuri are also inactive, continuing a trend from last week. Alaric Jackson is expected to play despite a chest injury. The Rams are hoping to leverage a full roster as they aim for a home game in the NFC title match.