Three Instant Observations After Rams Hire Michael Hunter

The Los Angeles Rams have high hopes for their new defensive assistant

Jan 10, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay walks into the stadium before the NFC Wild Card Round game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

WOODLAND HILLS, Ca. The Los Angeles Rams have hired Michael Hunter from the University of Tennessee to be their next defensive backs coach. Hunter, a former NFL player and National Championship coach with Ohio State, is now set to lead the Rams into a new era.

Here are three instant observations from the move.

1. Aubrey Pleasant's Role Will Change

Aubrey Pleasant, the Rams' current assistant head coach and passing game coordinator, is interviewing for multiple defensive coordinator openings around the league. While Hunter's hire might have no correlation to the interest in Pleasant, the timing does seem to signal Pleasant could be leaving for a better opportunity.

Oct 19, 2025; London, United Kingdom; Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator Aubrey Pleasant reacts after a play against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half of an NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Even if Pleasant returns, his main job was to coordinate the Rams' defensive secondary. With Hunter coming in, I see this move as allowing Pleasant to have more control over the development of the secondary as well as a bigger input in game-planning, in-game strategy, and overall team development. If Pleasant doesn't leave this offseason, I see this move as getting him ready to be the Rams DC next offseason as Chris Shula will once again be a top candidate.

2. The Rams Are Overhauling Their Entire Secondary

Regardless of whatever coaching domino effects are in place, Hunter is filling a role that was shared last season. This signals an emphasis on defensive back improvement and considering Hunter's work at the collegiate level, this will allow the Rams to stay at the forefront of the evolving world of defensive coverages.

Ohio State Buckeyes cornerback Davison Igbinosun (1) celebrates an interception wiht defensive end Eddrick Houston (96) during the first half of the Big Ten Conference championship game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Dec. 6, 2025. | Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

While the Rams gain an advantage tactically, as Hunter helped Matt Patricia bridge the gap between NFL and collegiate concepts last season at Ohio State, another bonus is that Hunter was critical in the development of Denzel Burke and Davison Igbinosun. Igbinosun is a 2025 First Team All-Big Ten selection and will be in the 2026 NFL Draft.

3. Expect Familiar Faces To Return Next Season

With the advancement in ideology comes the question of how to properly support the thought with the pieces to execute it. While I still believe the Rams will search for a lockdown corner in free agency or the draft, I also think the Rams want to supplement that incoming piece with familiar talent.

Jan 18, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Los Angeles Rams cornerback Cobie Durant (14) reacts to a rushing touchdown scored by running back Kyren Williams (not pictured) against the Chicago Bears during the fourth quarter of an NFC Divisional Round game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images | Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Don't be surprised to see Cobie Durant and/ or Kam Curl back in Los Angeles next season due to their skillsets, familiarity with the scheme, and ability to make plays when put in the proper position, something Hunter will help with.

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