A longtime Angeleno, Team NBS Media’s George Lopez has intently covered the Rams since their return to California.
George recently wrapped up his in-season coverage with a year-end article. He credited the young players for the Rams’ success and spoke about a brighter future for the team.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with George to discuss the 2023 season, the future of the franchise and what’s in store for its key players.
Q: What is your overview of the season and do you believe Matthew Stafford will be a member of the Rams long term?
Lopez: The Rams weren’t expected to do much this season. Most “experts” had them winning six games. I think McVay had his best season as coach. They exceeded expectations this year. I give Stafford maybe two more seasons and wouldn’t be surprised if he retires then. The Rams will need to address a quarterback in the future. Bo Nix is a possibility in the upcoming draft. I would like them to resign Wentz as their backup.
Q: Did Cooper Kupp have a down year or is he over the hill?
Lopez: I don’t think Kupp is over the hill. It’s unfortunate that he missed time due to injuries. When healthy, he’s still one of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL. With Kupp out, Stafford was able to build chemistry with the other receivers.
Q: The Rams have a first-round pick for the first time since their selection of Jared Goff in 2016. Who should they target and why?
Lopez: The Rams need to address their secondary. That was a weakness all season. Cooper DeJean out of Iowa is someone the Rams should look at, as well as Kool-Aid McKinstry out of Alabama.
Q: How long does Aaron Donald have left in the league?
Lopez: The past three seasons, there has been talk of Aaron Donald considering retirement. I think the play of the young players on defense reinvigorated Donald to play at least one more season.
Q: The Rams are not excepted to make any major splashes in free agency. With that being said, are there any available players that you would like to see the Rams target?
Lopez: I would like the Rams to re-sign Kevin Dotson. Once he was put in the starting lineup, the offensive line played much better. I would like to see them pursue an inside linebacker to play alongside Ernest Jones.
Q: Is Puka Nacua on the verge of stardom or just a flash in the pan?
Lopez: Puka Nacua was a big surprise this season. He is definitely on the verge of stardom. He really fits in well in McVay’s offense. Being able to learn from Kupp is going to do wonders for his career.
Q: Who is your ideal replacement for defensive coordinator Raheem Morris?
Lopez: With Raheem Morris leaving for Atlanta, some Rams fans assume they will look to bring back Brandon Staley. The Rams have run elements of Vic Fangio’s defense recently, so bringing Staley back would make sense. They have scheduled to interview the Ravens DB coach, Dennard Wilson. I wouldn’t mind seeing someone from Mike Macdonald’s defensive philosophy.
