3 Most Likely Replacements for Brandon Staley as Rams Defensive Coordinator

Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Brandon Staley has been scooped up by the Los Angeles Chargers as their next head coach following the team's playoff exit. It's no surprise that a rising coaching talent like Staley would get a look as a head coach, especially considering he led the NFL's top-ranked defense this year.

The loss of Staley cannot be overstated. With that in mind, here are three likely replacements for Staley as the Rams' defensive coordinator.

Los Angeles Rams Brandon Staley Replacements

1. Wade Phillips

A reunion with Wade Phillips would make sense for the Rams. / John McCoy/Getty Images

73-year-old coaching veteran Wade Phillips has announced that he's coming out of retirement and looking for further opportunities. Phillips was the Rams' previous defensive coordinator before Staley, serving from 2017-2019, so a reunion would make sense. Bringing in someone who's already familiar with the Rams' system and players would help a transition be seamless.

2. Raheem Morris

Raheem Morris' experience as a defensive coordinator could make him a worthwhile Brandon Staley replacement. / Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Raheem Morris is in search of a new home with the Arthur Smith era beginning in Atlanta. Morris did an admirable job as interim head coach, but his experience as a defensive coordinator is what makes him a possible Staley replacement. Morris can helm a top defense when the talent is there, as evidenced by Tampa Bay's top-10 finish in points allowed in 2010.

3. Aubrey Pleasant/Eric Henderson

Cornerbacks coach Aubrey Pleasant and defensive line coach Eric Henderson are great in-house candidates for DC. / Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images

The Rams could also opt for an in-house replacement, and they have two suitable options in cornerbacks coach Aubrey Pleasant and defensive line coach Eric Henderson. Pleasant has spent the last four seasons with the team and helped maximize the Rams' weapons in the secondary like Jalen Ramsey. Henderson, meanwhile, has been with the team for two years and been part of unleashing Aaron Donald, who is in contention for Defensive Player of the Year this season. Either coach is a great candidate to promote given their success with their respective position groups.

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