The Los Angeles Rams have made a significant investment in their defensive future, securing inside linebacker Nate Landman with a substantial three-year contract extension worth $22.5 million. The deal includes $15.67 million in guaranteed money, rewarding the player who joined the team on a modest one-year contract and rapidly emerged as a defensive leader.
From Prove-It Deal to Team Captain
Nate Landman's journey with the Rams began during free agency in March when he signed a one-year prove-it contract. The inside linebacker made an immediate impact that exceeded all expectations, earning him the prestigious team captain designation in his very first season with the franchise.
Through ten games this season, Landman has delivered impressive statistics that demonstrate his value to the Rams defense. His performance metrics include 91 total tackles, 4 forced fumbles (marking a career high), 2 fumble recoveries, 1.5 sacks, 4 tackles for loss, and 4 passes defended.
These numbers represent a dramatic improvement from his 2024 season with the Atlanta Falcons, where he recorded zero sacks and zero tackles for loss under first-year defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake's containment-heavy scheme.
Coach McVay's High Praise
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay has been vocal in his appreciation for Landman's contributions to the team. "He has great emotional intelligence," McVay stated, highlighting the linebacker's leadership qualities.
"He is a great competitor. I think our guys immediately earned the respect, and just the way that he moves. I have really enjoyed continuing to get to know him and everything that he's about. It epitomizes what we want to be about," the coach expressed enthusiastically.
This leadership capability played a crucial role in Landman earning a captain's "C" on his jersey during his debut season with the Rams franchise.
Falcons' Scheme Change and Consequences
The Atlanta Falcons' decision to part ways with Landman stemmed from their 2024 defensive philosophy under Jimmy Lake, which prioritized speed and space over physical, downhill play. This scheme proved challenging for traditional inside linebackers like Landman and rookie JD Bertrand, while favoring rangy athletes such as Troy Andersen.
Although Lake was fired after the season, the damage to Landman's position with the Falcons was already done. Coming off a shoulder injury and facing limited free-agent interest, Landman had to settle for the Rams' low-risk offer that ultimately became his breakthrough opportunity.
Atlanta instead signed Divine Deablo, who unfortunately suffered a broken arm in Week 7 against San Francisco, creating additional challenges for their linebacker corps.
Implications for Both Franchises
For the Los Angeles Rams, locking up a 27-year-old starting inside linebacker and team captain at what is considered a reasonable price represents a major victory as they push for a deep playoff run. Landman's consistency and leadership provide stability to their defensive unit.
The situation looks considerably different for the Atlanta Falcons, where the linebacker room now faces significant uncertainty. With Kaden Elliss and Troy Andersen both pending free agents, only Deablo and Bertrand remain as experienced inside linebackers currently under contract for 2026.
Landman's successful transition from Atlanta to Los Angeles demonstrates how scheme fit and organizational philosophy can dramatically impact a player's career trajectory and value in the NFL market.
