Rams HC Sean McVay (temporarily) handing over keys to assistant

“He’s earned this right and it’s more of just going through some of the mechanics,” McVay said, via Adam Schefter of ESPN. “Meeting with the officials, handling some of the different things as it relates to timeouts, being able to communicate with both sides. Again, these games we approach very differently, but I think to be able to get those reps for the leadership role that he plays for our team, but also to be able to get those chances."

McVay then elaborated on his thought process.

“I remember when I got opportunities when I was in Washington," the Rams coach explained. "Those were really cool things that I look back on and I really appreciate in hindsight. Maybe I didn’t realize how beneficial and valuable they were. Like I’ve mentioned to you guys, he’s earned the right of assistant head coach because of the influence and the positive effect that he has on everyone in this building. I think it’s a great, earned opportunity and he’ll do an excellent job.”

Pleasant was the Rams’ cornerbacks coach from 2017-20, then returned to the team in his current role in 2023. The organization has launched a staggering number of head-coaching careers since McVay joined in the winter of 2017. Raheem Morris’ recent work with the Rams helped him land a head-coaching job this past offseason. McVay appears to think Pleasant might have a future as a head coach as well.