The Los Angeles Rams have officially released Cornerback Derion Kendrick, signaling that they’re ready to move in a new direction on defense as the 2025 NFL season approaches. Kendrick, who tore his ACL during training camp last July, never saw the field in 2024. There was some cautious optimism about his return, but instead of waiting it out, the Rams made a business decision. They’ve cleared up some much-needed cap space and left the door open for fresh talent in the secondary.
Rams Say Goodbye To a Once-Promising Cornerback
Drafted in the sixth round back in 2022, Kendrick didn’t come in with a ton of hype, but he made some noise early. He suited up for 32 games over two seasons, starting 18 of them, and totaled 92 tackles, 14 pass breakups, and a pick. His 2023 season stood out in particular; starting 12 games and consistently disrupting passing lanes, he looked like a future staple in the Rams’ defensive backfield.
But football’s tough. Training camp in 2024 brought a brutal setback — a torn ACL that knocked Kendrick out for the entire year. Head Coach Sean McVay had praised his offseason development, and at one point, there seemed to be genuine belief in the comeback. Fast forward a year, and that belief has shifted — not necessarily in Kendrick’s potential, but in the team’s direction.
Cap Space and a Clean Slate
From a financial standpoint, the move adds up. Letting Kendrick go frees up roughly $3.4 million, pushing the Rams’ cap space to around $22 million. That’s more than just pocket change, it gives the front office flexibility to address glaring needs, especially at cornerback.
Whispers are already circling about a possible reunion with Jalen Ramsey. While nothing is close to official, Kendrick’s release conveniently opens both a roster spot and the cash required to chase a big name. Whether or not it’s Ramsey, expect the Rams to be active in hunting for veteran help.
The truth is, the cornerback position has been in flux for a while now. Injuries, inconsistency, and turnover have left the room feeling thin. With this move, the Rams might be acknowledging that it’s time for a reset. Maybe even a full-blown overhaul on that side of the ball.
What the Rams’ Defense Looks Like Moving Forward
With veteran QB Matthew Stafford still in the mix and Davante Adams now catching passes in LA, the offense looks ready to contend. The defense? That’s another story.
By releasing Kendrick, the Rams have essentially admitted that their secondary lacks the depth and reliability needed to go the distance. There’s now a clear hole to fill — not just in terms of skill, but leadership too. Kendrick, for all his ups and downs, was a familiar face in that locker room.
Defensive Coordinator Chris Shula now faces the challenge of patching things up. Expect him to lean into developing younger players, but also keep an eye on experienced free agents who can bring some immediate toughness and consistency to the field.
What’s Next For Derion Kendrick?
As for Kendrick, the next step is the waiver wire. If no team claims him, he’ll become a free agent. Given his age, he’s still just 24, and what he’s already shown when healthy, it’s hard to imagine he’ll be out of work for long. That said, the ACL rehab is a real factor. Teams with short-term needs may steer clear, but those with a longer view might take a flier on him as a depth piece with upside.
This isn’t the end of the road for Derion Kendrick. It’s just a detour — a tough one, sure, but not uncommon in a league that’s as unforgiving as it is unpredictable. If he bounces back, there’s still plenty of time for him to carve out a solid NFL career somewhere else.
