The Los Angeles Rams have undergone significant changes to their defensive line for the 2026 NFL season, most notably with the acquisition of Myles Garrett. This high-profile transaction, while drawing considerable attention, has inadvertently created a significant opportunity for a less-heralded player to shine. Josaiah Stewart, a second-year outside linebacker, is now positioned for a breakout year, expected to be a vital component of defensive coordinator Chris Shula's strategic plans. His potential has been recognized by prominent sports analysts, who see him as a crucial asset for the team's defensive capabilities.
Stewart's rookie season, though limited in playing time, showcased his immense talent and efficiency. Operating primarily as a rotational player, he made the most of his 166 pass-rush snaps, displaying remarkable ability to bend, generate power, and effectively pressure quarterbacks. Analysts highlight his versatility as a subpackage player with legitimate drop ability, making him a valuable "Swiss Army knife" in Shula's defense, especially during blitzing downs. With the strategic shift of Myles Garrett to more interior roles, Stewart is set to receive increased opportunities in wider alignments, allowing him to develop into a late-game closer for the Rams.
Josaiah Stewart's Emergence on the Rams' Defensive Front
Josaiah Stewart, a second-year outside linebacker for the Los Angeles Rams, is garnering significant attention as a top breakout candidate for the upcoming NFL season. This comes on the heels of a substantial overhaul to the Rams' defensive line, which notably included the trade involving Jared Verse and the acquisition of the formidable Myles Garrett. While Garrett's arrival captured national headlines, it simultaneously created an opening for Stewart to step into a more prominent role within defensive coordinator Chris Shula's strategic framework. ESPN's Ben Solak has specifically pointed to Stewart as a player poised for a breakthrough, underscoring his potential to become a key contributor on the field.
Despite his limited snap count during his rookie year, Stewart's performance was remarkably efficient and impactful. He participated in just 374 total defensive snaps, with 166 dedicated to pass-rushing, yet his statistics rivaled those of more established edge defenders. Stewart achieved an impressive 74.0 Pro Football Focus pass-rush grade, placing him 28th among 115 qualified edge players. His 21 total pressures, which included three sacks, four quarterback hits, and 14 hurries, along with a forced fumble, demonstrate his exceptional playmaking ability. This efficiency suggests that his impactful plays were not mere flukes but indicative of a sustained capability to disrupt opposing offenses, making him an exciting prospect for the Rams' defensive future.
Strategic Role and Future Impact
Stewart's potential breakout is not an isolated observation, with multiple analysts recognizing his upward trajectory. Beyond ESPN's Ben Solak, Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report also identified Stewart as a breakout candidate for 2026, and Pro Football Focus acknowledged him as the Rams' most impactful first-year player in 2025. This consensus highlights a growing belief in Stewart's ability to transition from a rotational player to a significant force on the Rams' defense. His unique skill set, combining legitimate drop ability with powerful pass-rushing techniques, positions him perfectly for Chris Shula's scheme, which values versatile players capable of executing diverse defensive assignments.
The strategic deployment of Myles Garrett, who is expected to frequently shift inside due to his superior size, will create more opportunities for Stewart to operate in wider alignments. This tactical advantage will allow Stewart to capitalize on one-on-one matchups and further showcase his ability to bend and finish plays at the quarterback. The expectation is that Garrett and Byron Young will absorb the primary direct confrontations, thereby freeing up Stewart to excel in situational moments and deliver critical plays for the team. This strategic positioning aims to maximize Stewart's impact, enabling him to develop into a reliable late-game closer and a cornerstone of the Rams' revitalized defensive front.
