The Los Angeles Rams should bring back John Johnson III in 2025 to bolster their defense and leadership.

The Los Angeles Rams have been a franchise in transition in recent years, navigating the balance between maintaining a competitive roster and developing future talent. Following their 2021 Super Bowl victory, the Rams had a short window to capitalize on their elite core while managing an aging roster and cap space issues. Among the decisions that have shaped the Rams’ defense in recent seasons, one player stands out as a potential key addition for 2025: John Johnson III.

The veteran safety, who was once a core player for the Rams before signing with the Cleveland Browns in 2021, could be the missing piece the Rams need to strengthen their defense in the coming season. With a mix of youth and experience in the secondary, Johnson’s return could provide a boost both on the field and in the locker room. Here are several reasons why bringing John Johnson III back to Los Angeles for the 2025 season makes sense for the Rams.

1. Johnson’s Experience and Leadership

One of the most compelling reasons for the Rams to bring back John Johnson III is his leadership ability. Johnson’s experience as a defensive leader for the Rams during his first tenure with the team can’t be overstated. He was an integral part of the Rams’ defense from 2017 to 2020, particularly in their successful 2018 season that led to a Super Bowl appearance.

As a vocal presence on the field and in the locker room, Johnson has the ability to rally his teammates, communicate effectively in high-pressure situations, and provide valuable mentoring to younger players. His experience as a starter in Los Angeles and with Cleveland has given him the tools to lead a secondary that is still in need of stabilizing leadership.

The Rams’ defense has been solid in recent years, but they have also seen several changes, particularly in the secondary, with players like Jalen Ramsey moving on and younger players like Robert Rochell and Derion Kendrick stepping into larger roles. A player like Johnson, with his ability to organize the defense, read opposing offenses, and make adjustments on the fly, would go a long way in ensuring the Rams’ defense doesn’t miss a beat.

Veteran leadership, especially in the secondary, is crucial for a team looking to return to Super Bowl contention. Bringing back Johnson would provide a steady hand, particularly for the Rams’ young defensive backs, and could help elevate the play of the entire defensive unit.

2. Johnson’s Versatility and Skillset

John Johnson III is known for his versatility, which makes him a valuable asset in any defense. Over the years, Johnson has proven to be more than just a traditional safety. He can line up in various positions, whether as a strong safety in the box, a deep safety in coverage, or even in the slot as a hybrid player who can cover tight ends and running backs. This versatility would allow the Rams to use Johnson in a variety of schemes to take advantage of his skillset.

In addition to his versatility, Johnson is an effective playmaker. He has consistently produced impressive statistics in his career, with 10 career interceptions, multiple sacks, and numerous pass deflections. His ability to read the quarterback, make plays on the ball, and disrupt passing lanes would help shore up a secondary that has occasionally struggled with turnovers in recent seasons.

With the Rams’ defense leaning heavily on Aaron Donald’s dominance in the front seven, adding a player like Johnson could complement the pass rush by allowing the Rams’ secondary to play more aggressively. His knack for being in the right place at the right time would add another layer of depth to the Rams’ defense.

3. Strengthening the Rams’ Secondary

While the Rams’ defense has been solid over the years, their secondary has often been the unit’s most inconsistent area. With Jalen Ramsey no longer on the roster, the Rams will need to continue to solidify their defensive backfield. Johnson would bring a wealth of experience that the Rams could desperately use in 2025.

The Rams have a solid group of cornerbacks, but adding Johnson to the secondary would elevate the entire unit. His ability to cover ground quickly and play multiple roles on the field would allow the Rams to use their defensive backs in more dynamic ways. Furthermore, Johnson’s leadership and football IQ would help stabilize the secondary, preventing miscommunications or blown coverages that have occasionally plagued the Rams’ defense in the past.

With a player like Johnson, the Rams would be able to play more aggressive, high-pressure defense, knowing that Johnson can cover the deep third, step up to help against the run, or play physical, tough coverage on underneath routes. His presence could also help the younger cornerbacks like Rochell and Kendrick take their games to the next level, helping them develop faster.

4. A Familiarity with the Rams’ Defensive System

Another major advantage of bringing back John Johnson III is his familiarity with the Rams’ defensive system. Johnson was with the Rams from 2017 to 2020 and was a key player in defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s 3-4 system. Though the Rams’ defensive scheme has evolved somewhat under current defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, the principles of the defense remain largely the same.

This familiarity with the Rams’ system means Johnson would be able to step in and contribute right away. There would be no learning curve or adjustment period for him in terms of understanding the defense, the terminology, or the expectations. Instead, he could immediately plug into a role that maximizes his strengths, such as being a deep safety or a versatile chess piece who can play multiple positions.

For a Rams team that is striving to regain their Super Bowl contender status, having a player like Johnson who understands the defensive scheme and can contribute from day one would be invaluable.

5. Financial Flexibility and Affordability

One of the biggest hurdles the Rams face heading into the 2025 offseason is their salary cap situation. The Rams have spent heavily on key players like Aaron Donald, Matthew Stafford, and Cooper Kupp. As a result, the team will need to be creative when it comes to roster building and contract management.

Bringing John Johnson III back on a relatively affordable deal could be a smart way to fill a critical need without breaking the bank. Johnson’s contract would likely be more affordable compared to other top free-agent safeties, making him a reasonable target for the Rams, especially considering the team’s cap constraints.

Johnson’s familiarity with the Rams’ culture and coaching staff would also make him an appealing option in this scenario. The Rams won’t have to invest significant resources in acquiring him, allowing them to allocate money toward other areas of need, such as the offensive line or a potential pass rusher.

6. Depth for the 2025 Defensive Backfield

The Rams’ defensive backfield is expected to feature a mix of veterans and emerging young talents. While they have talent in place with players like Jalen Ramsey (before his trade to Miami), they will need more depth and competition as they move forward.

Adding Johnson could help strengthen the depth of the secondary. With his proven track record and high football IQ, Johnson could provide excellent support for young players like Taylor Rapp and Jordan Fuller, who may still be growing into their roles as full-time starters.

Moreover, the addition of a seasoned player like Johnson could allow the Rams to better evaluate their younger talent and assess whether they need to invest further in the defensive backfield in future drafts.

7. Addressing the Long-Term Need for Safety Depth

Looking beyond 2025, the Rams are facing an aging roster across many positions, including the safety position. With players like Taylor Rapp and Jordan Fuller continuing to develop, the Rams should look at their long-term options at safety. A player like John Johnson III could provide that bridge between now and the future. Not only would he contribute to immediate needs, but he could help the Rams groom the next wave of safeties while continuing to develop younger defensive backs.