Rams' most 'underrated' player is set to take on larger role in 2024 season

When Aaron Donald announced his retirement, putting pressure in the backfield will now be a team-oriented effort for the Los Angeles Rams.

The good news is the Rams' defense is prepared to step up. Though Donald will be a big hole to fill, it won't be impossible, given the draft Los Angeles worked out in recent weeks. 

Also working in Los Angeles' favor is having Ernest Jones IV, a player Pro Football Focus named the team's most underrated player on the roster.  

Jones has made a name for himself. He was a captain on the Rams' defense. And his 2023 season proved him to be one of the Rams' most important players. Here is what Pro Football Focus' Zoltán Buday thought of Jones' campaign: 

"Naturally, Aaron Donald received all the attention on the Rams' defense over the past decade. His retirement means Jones should get more recognition, especially if he continues to play like he did in his third season. He finished the 2023 campaign with an 86.2 PFF overall grade, which ranked 13th at the position. He was also one of just three linebackers to earn run-defense and pass-rush grades above 80.0."

In terms of counting statistics, Jones racked up 74 solo tackles and 4.5 sacks. Both marks were career highs for Jones. As the season progressed, it was clear the 24-year-old was stepping into his own as a playmaker all over the field. His selection as the most underrated Rams player is not only correct, it's a slam dunk.