Los Angeles Rams Urged to Fix Critical 2024 Mistake With a Very Familiar Face
The Los Angeles Rams are at a crossroads following an inconsistent 2024 season that exposed glaring weaknesses within their roster and strategy. Despite moments of brilliance, the team struggled to establish a consistent identity on both sides of the ball. Analysts, fans, and insiders are now urging the Rams to rectify a significant oversight—and the solution may involve bringing back a familiar face who can reignite the team’s ambitions.
A Season Marred by Inconsistencies
The 2024 season started with cautious optimism as head coach Sean McVay sought to rebuild the Rams into contenders following a lackluster 2023. However, as the season progressed, several issues became apparent. Injuries to key players, including star receiver Cooper Kupp and veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, derailed the offense’s rhythm. Meanwhile, defensive lapses made it difficult to close out games against top-tier opponents.
The Rams finished the season with a 7-10 record, missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year. This disappointing outcome raised questions about the team’s roster construction, coaching decisions, and overall direction.
The Critical 2024 Mistake
One of the most glaring missteps of 2024 was the lack of a cohesive offensive scheme. Sean McVay, once lauded as an offensive mastermind, struggled to adapt to personnel changes and evolving defensive strategies. The departure of offensive coordinator Liam Coen after the 2022 season left a void that was never adequately filled. Coen, known for his innovative play designs and ability to maximize player potential, was instrumental in the Rams’ success during his tenure.
In Coen’s absence, the offense lacked creativity and dynamism. The team relied heavily on predictable plays, often failing to capitalize on their talented roster. This conservative approach led to missed opportunities in critical moments and contributed to the team’s underwhelming performance.
The Familiar Face: Liam Coen
Liam Coen’s name has resurfaced in discussions about how the Rams can address their offensive woes. After leaving the Rams to take on a head coaching role at the University of Kentucky, Coen continued to demonstrate his prowess as a football strategist. Under his leadership, Kentucky’s offense flourished, with a balanced attack that emphasized versatility and adaptability.
Coen’s familiarity with McVay’s system and his ability to tailor schemes to the strengths of his players make him an ideal candidate to return to Los Angeles. His previous stint with the Rams showcased his talent for unlocking the potential of key players, including Stafford and Kupp. A reunion with Coen could provide the spark needed to rejuvenate the offense.
Why the Rams Need Coen
The Rams’ offensive struggles in 2024 were not solely due to injuries; they were also a result of ineffective play-calling and a lack of innovation. Coen’s return could address several critical areas:
1. Revitalizing the Passing Game
Matthew Stafford’s arm strength and accuracy remain assets, but the lack of creative route combinations and downfield threats limited his effectiveness in 2024. Coen’s schemes, which emphasize pre-snap motion and misdirection, could help create opportunities for Stafford to exploit defenses.
2. Maximizing Player Potential
Cooper Kupp, one of the league’s premier receivers, struggled to maintain his usual dominance in 2024 due to injuries and predictable play designs. Coen’s ability to design plays that put players in positions to succeed could help Kupp return to All-Pro form. Additionally, emerging talents like Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams could benefit from Coen’s guidance.
3. Balancing the Offense
The Rams’ running game was inconsistent in 2024, failing to complement the passing attack. Coen’s emphasis on balance and his knack for developing effective rushing schemes could help the team establish a more reliable ground game, reducing the pressure on Stafford and the offensive line.
4. Strategic Adjustments
One of Coen’s strengths is his ability to adapt mid-game, a quality the Rams sorely lacked in 2024. His return could bring a fresh perspective to McVay’s staff, allowing the team to make necessary adjustments against tough opponents.
Challenges to Overcome
While the prospect of Coen’s return is enticing, it is not without challenges. The Rams would need to navigate several obstacles to bring him back:
1. Competing Offers
Coen’s success at Kentucky has not gone unnoticed. Other NFL teams and college programs may also vie for his services, potentially driving up the cost of securing him.
2. Salary Cap Constraints
The Rams have faced salary cap challenges in recent years due to aggressive spending during their Super Bowl run. Balancing the budget while addressing roster needs and coaching staff changes could complicate efforts to rehire Coen.
3. Evolving Defenses
NFL defenses have grown increasingly sophisticated, and Coen would need to bring new ideas to stay ahead of the curve. Simply relying on past successes may not be enough to revitalize the offense.
4. Reintegrating Into the Staff
Returning to the Rams’ coaching staff would require Coen to align with McVay’s vision and work cohesively with the existing personnel. Establishing strong communication and trust would be crucial for a successful partnership.
A Potential Game-Changer for 2025
Despite the challenges, the potential benefits of bringing Liam Coen back to Los Angeles are undeniable. His innovative approach to offense, combined with his familiarity with the team’s core players, positions him as a key piece in the Rams’ efforts to rebound in 2025.
The Rams have shown a willingness to make bold moves in the past, and pursuing Coen’s return would align with their commitment to staying competitive. By addressing the mistakes of 2024 and prioritizing offensive innovation, the team can lay the foundation for sustained success.
What’s Next for the Rams?
The Rams’ front office faces a pivotal offseason. Beyond coaching decisions, they must address roster gaps, particularly on the offensive line and in the secondary. Additionally, retaining and developing young talent will be crucial for long-term stability.
As the Rams chart their path forward, the call to bring back Liam Coen represents more than just a personnel move; it symbolizes a renewed commitment to the principles that defined their rise to prominence. If the Rams can successfully reunite with Coen and make strategic offseason moves, they have the potential to reestablish themselves as a force in the NFC.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Rams’ 2024 season was a wake-up call, exposing weaknesses that must be addressed to return to contention. By acknowledging their mistakes and taking decisive action, the team can position itself for a brighter future.
Bringing back Liam Coen as offensive coordinator would be a significant step toward achieving that goal. His innovative mindset, proven track record, and familiarity with the organization make him the ideal candidate to help the Rams overcome their offensive struggles. As the Rams prepare for the 2025 season, the time is now to fix the mistakes of 2024 and build a foundation for sustained success.