The Los Angeles Rams have concluded their relationship with cornerback Alex Johnson, a decision that unfolded over several days through waiver processes and an injury settlement. Johnson, an unheralded talent who once topped the Pac-12 in interceptions during his college career, had yet to make his debut in a professional regular-season contest. This development coincides with the Rams' recent defeat against the San Francisco 49ers, raising inquiries about Johnson's next career move in the league.
Details Emerge on Alex Johnson's Departure from the Rams
On September 12, 2026, the Los Angeles Rams formally concluded their agreement with third-year cornerback Alex Johnson. This decision followed a series of procedural steps, beginning with the team waiving Johnson with an injury designation on August 29. After clearing waivers, he was placed on the Rams' injured reserve list. Subsequently, on September 9, the team reached an injury settlement with Johnson, a California native and UCLA alumnus. The termination of his contract via waivers was then officially processed on September 10, as reported by Blaine Grisak of Rams On SI. This sequence of events has now made Johnson a free agent, open to signing with any team. However, a potential return to the Rams would necessitate a waiting period beyond the duration of his settlement, plus an additional three weeks.
Despite not playing in a regular-season NFL game, Johnson, a former undrafted free agent, was considered a promising prospect. In his final collegiate year in 2023, he led the Pac-12 with five interceptions. During the 2026 preseason, the 6-foot-1 cornerback participated in all three Rams exhibition games, accumulating seven total tackles. Nevertheless, Pro Football Focus noted his struggles in coverage. Johnson's professional journey also includes stints with the New York Giants, Indianapolis Colts, and Tennessee Titans. Ahead of the 2024 draft, Dane Brugler of The Athletic's “The Beast” guide recognized him among the top talent, and NFL.com's Lance Zierlein described him as a “tall nickel cornerback who could get some looks as a backup safety” with “fluid athlete” traits, suggesting a potential practice-squad spot.
Johnson's release, occurring before the Rams' disappointing 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1, took on a symbolic significance. While his presence likely wouldn't have altered the outcome against the 49ers' potent offense, led by quarterback Brock Purdy, the timing of the transaction underscored the team's defensive vulnerabilities. The Rams' high-profile cornerbacks, Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, struggled to contain San Francisco. This initial loss, marked by the Rams falling behind early and failing to score after their opening touchdown, represented a critical setback for the team. The future for Alex Johnson remains uncertain, including the possibility of rejoining the Rams at a later date.
The intricate ballet of NFL roster management is often a stark reminder of the league's unforgiving nature. For promising talents like Alex Johnson, the journey can be fraught with unexpected turns, where college accolades and preseason flashes of brilliance don't always translate into a secure roster spot. His departure, culminating in an injury settlement, highlights the delicate balance between player potential, health, and team needs. From a broader perspective, this situation reflects the intense competition within professional football and the constant pressure on players to perform, even in exhibition games, to solidify their position. It also underscores the business side of the sport, where decisions, though seemingly harsh, are often made with an eye toward team strategy and financial implications. For Johnson, this moment could be a springboard to another opportunity, a chance to prove his worth elsewhere, and for fans, a reminder of the transient careers that define many in the NFL.
