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Rams New Defender Adds Versatility, Unlocks Swiss Army Knife

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Oct 27, 2025 4:33 PM ET

The Los Angeles Rams made a decisive move ahead of the NFL trade deadline, acquiring cornerback Roger McCreary from the Tennessee Titans for a conditional fifth/sixth-round pick swap, according to Adam Schefter. With the Rams entering their Week 8 bye at 5–2, tied atop the NFC West, the team boasts one of the NFL’s most efficient offenses, but its secondary has been an area of concern. Veteran Ahkello Witherspoon remains sidelined, leaving the cornerback rotation thin and inconsistent.

Inside or Outside: McCreary’s Positional Flexibility

One of the biggest benefits of the trade is McCreary’s versatility, a point highlighted on the Rams LAFB show. “He can play inside or outside… I like him for his versatility,” the show noted. McCreary’s ability to operate both as a slot and outside corner gives the Rams defensive coordinator flexibility in matchups and allows Quentin Lake to rotate freely between the nickel, box, and line-of-scrimmage roles.

Looking at his career snap distribution, McCreary began primarily as an outside corner in 2022 with 604 snaps outside and 334 in the slot. Since 2023, he has mostly played in the slot, with 218 slot snaps versus just five outside snaps through eight weeks in 2025. This ability to transition between positions while maintaining coverage duties makes him an adaptable piece for a defense that needs to respond to elite passing attacks.

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Man Coverage Capabilities

Rams New Defender Adds Versatility, Unlocks Swiss Army Knife 1 Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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McCreary has shown the ability to handle man coverage, particularly earlier in his career. In 2022 as an outside corner, he allowed just 55.6% completion rate in man coverage, and even while playing in the slot, he has recorded multiple interceptions (all coming in the slot). Despite a rough 2025 start — allowing a 100% completion rate in man coverage on four targets — his track record demonstrates that he can step into man assignments when needed, particularly in press coverage where he has allowed a career-low 69.6% completion rate.

Depth and Playoff Implications

McCreary joins a rotation with Cobie Durant, Darius Williams, Emmanuel Forbes, and Tre Brown, adding experience and depth to a secondary that must perform in high-leverage situations. His versatility allows the Rams to disguise coverages, move personnel strategically, and better protect their star pass rushers, enhancing their chances in a deep playoff run.

With the Nov. 4 trade deadline looming, McCreary’s addition signals that Los Angeles is willing to be aggressive to fortify their roster and maximize their Super Bowl window. His combination of slot and outside experience, paired with man-coverage ability, makes him a critical piece in Sean McVay’s defensive puzzle.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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