Rams to hold competition for starting linebacker spot ahead of Week 6 | Sporting News Canada

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thu, Oct 10th, 2025 by Sporting News

Rams Hold Competition for Starting Linebacker Spot Ahead of Week 6

As the Los Angeles Rams slide deeper into the 2024 regular season, the focus turns to the trenches: the battle for the starting linebacker position. The front‑office and coaching staff are evaluating two candidates—veteran linebacker Jamal Holley and rookie Alex Van Dyke—to determine who will lead the Rams’ defensive front into the pivotal Week 6 matchup.

Who’s in the Mix?

• Jamal Holley
  A seasoned veteran who joined the Rams in 2021, Holley brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in both run‑stopping and pass coverage. In the preseason, he logged 12 tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble, demonstrating an ability to make plays all over the field. Holley’s knowledge of the Rams’ defensive schemes—especially the 3‑4 alignment used by newly hired defensive coordinator Mark Ruckert—has made him a natural candidate to guide the linebacking corps.

• Alex Van Dyke
  The Rams’ fifth‑round pick in the 2023 draft, Van Dyke is a rookie who has impressed with his athleticism and speed. He recorded 8 tackles and a pass‑defensed in the preseason, but it was his coverage skills—particularly against tight ends—that drew attention from the coaching staff. Van Dyke’s versatility, able to line up on the outside or as a hybrid “edge” unit, would fit Ruckert’s aggressive, multi‑front approach.

Both players share the same core responsibilities—stopping the run, covering short‑to‑mid‑range routes, and occasionally blitzing—but the coaching staff will look to see who can best adapt to the Rams’ evolving defensive identity.

Why the Linebacker Spot Matters

The Rams have historically leaned on a strong defensive line to generate pressure and a solid secondary to cover the growing passing game. With the offensive threat from the Dallas Cowboys slated for Week 6, the defensive line needs to stay disciplined and the linebackers must be able to plug gaps and close down the Cowboys’ quick passes.

Head coach Doug Pederson emphasized in an interview that “the linebacker group is the linchpin of our defense. They’re the ones who will dictate the tempo against the Cowboys’ offensive scheme.” Pederson also noted that the coaching staff wants to maintain flexibility in the linebacker group—both for in‑game adjustments and for injury depth—so the competition between Holley and Van Dyke is not just about a starting role but also about ensuring a robust secondary.

In‑Game Context

The Rams’ Week 6 opponent, the Cowboys, have one of the league’s most dynamic offenses, especially in the passing game. The Rams’ defense must prevent a quick hit on the first third of the field, and a strong linebacker core is essential. Holley’s pass‑coverage experience and Van Dyke’s speed will both be on full display as the Rams try to neutralize the Cowboys’ tight‑end and slot‑receiver threats.

In addition, the Rams’ offensive line has struggled in the first five weeks, making the defense’s job even tougher. “We’re counting on our linebackers to make the plays,” Pederson said. “If the defensive line can’t get to the edge, the linebackers must step in.”

Coaching Staff’s Perspective

Defensive Coordinator Mark Ruckert gave a brief statement after the preseason: “Both guys have shown they can step into a leadership role. We’re looking at consistency, film study, and how well they fit into the scheme. The decision isn’t just about who can make the stats; it’s about who will be a catalyst for the defense.”

Ruckert also highlighted that Holley’s experience could help guide Van Dyke if the veteran takes the starting role. Conversely, Van Dyke’s upside in a more hybrid role could force the Rams to develop a more versatile defense.

What to Watch

1. Preseason Performance – Holley’s 12 tackles and 2 sacks versus Van Dyke’s 8 tackles and notable pass‑defensed stat.
2. In‑Game Adjustments – How each player reacts to play‑calling, especially in pass coverage and blitzing situations.
3. Coaching Comments – Any updates from Pederson or Ruckert after practice sessions leading up to Week 6.
4. Injury Status – Both players are healthy, but any minor knocks could affect depth decisions.

Bottom Line

The Rams are in the midst of a definitive showdown for the starting linebacker spot. With a high‑stakes opponent in Week 6, the pressure is on Holley and Van Dyke to showcase why they deserve the leadership role. Whether the team opts for the seasoned veteran’s consistency or the rookie’s dynamic versatility, the decision will reverberate through the Rams’ defensive strategy for the rest of the season.

Keep an eye on the preseason reports and the Rams’ depth chart updates. The outcome will shape the defense’s ability to keep the Cowboys—and the entire NFC West—under control in the weeks that follow.