Linebacker Nate Landman’s move from the Atlanta Falcons to the Los Angeles Rams during free agency came as a surprise to many. After showing promise in Atlanta, the undrafted linebacker from Colorado decided to take his talents to Los Angeles. While free agency decisions are often influenced by financial incentives, Landman’s decision appears to be shaped by a combination of factors, including familiarity with the Rams’ coaching staff, proximity to home, and the opportunity to join a winning culture.
Familiar Defensive Scheme
One of the most compelling reasons for Landman’s departure from Atlanta was the presence of two key Rams coaches—defensive coordinator Raheem Morris and senior defensive assistant Jimmy Lake. Both coaches were part of the Falcons’ staff when Landman played in Atlanta, making the transition to Los Angeles a smoother one for the linebacker.
Morris, who was the Falcons’ defensive coordinator and later the interim head coach before joining the Rams as DC, knows Landman’s strengths and weaknesses well. Additionally, Lake, who has a strong background in coaching linebackers and defensive schemes, adds another layer of familiarity for Landman. This connection allows him to integrate quickly into the Rams’ defensive system, rather than having to learn an entirely new playbook under a different coaching philosophy.
Proximity to Home
Another major factor in Landman’s decision to sign with the Rams is location. Landman was born in Zimbabwe but moved to Danville, California, when he was just three years old. Growing up on the West Coast and later playing college football at the University of Colorado, Landman has strong ties to the region. Signing with the Rams brings him much closer to family and friends, allowing for greater personal comfort and support.
For many players, the opportunity to play closer to home is an underrated but highly valued aspect of free agency. The ability to see loved ones more frequently and avoid the stress of cross-country travel during breaks in the season can have a positive impact on both mental and physical well-being. Given the demanding nature of the NFL season, this factor likely played a role in Landman’s decision-making process.
Joining a Winning Culture
While the Falcons have been rebuilding in recent years, the Rams have remained one of the NFL’s most successful franchises. Los Angeles has made multiple playoff appearances in recent seasons, including a Super Bowl victory in 2021. For a player like Landman, who is still early in his career and looking to establish himself as a key contributor on a contending team, the opportunity to join a winning organization was undoubtedly appealing.
The Rams’ strong coaching staff, experienced veteran leaders, and commitment to competing at the highest level provide Landman with a great opportunity to grow as a player. Being part of a team with a championship mindset could help him develop into a long-term defensive asset in the league.
Final Thoughts
Nate Landman’s decision to sign with the Rams was not solely about money—it was a well-thought-out move influenced by coaching familiarity, location, and the chance to compete for championships. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, Rams fans will be eager to see how he contributes to the team’s defensive success.
