The Los Angeles Rams have enjoyed some outstanding play out of fourth-year safety Quentin Lake after selecting him in the 6th round of the 2022 NFL draft. Lake has far exceeded his draft stock expectations, and now on the final year of his rookie contract, he will be no doubt be looking for a payday soon.
According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN this is something the Rams are aware of and interested in getting done at the right price.
“Quentin Lake is a do-it-all chess piece for Sean McVay’s defense, and the Rams are interested in retaining him if a deal makes sense.” explained Fowler.
That said, a deal may need to “make sense” sooner rather than later. Lake has quietly become the Rams’ most reliable defender and one of the most versatile in the NFL. Los Angeles opted not to resign Lake last year and now with each successful game his price tag is only growing as more teams take notice.
While LA has not spent big money to retain safeties in the past, Lake is no regular safety. Playing the star role of Chris Shula’s defense, Lake is all over, from coverage at safety to blitzing from the linebacker position, his impact can be felt anywhere. Lake’s ability to successfully play multiple positions is something head coach Sean McVay has taken notice of.
“He’s so versatile. He’s so tough,” McVay said. “The majority of his snaps are coming from the nickel slot position. He’s stout. He’s a complete football player… I love Quentin Lake. I’m really grateful to be working with him and I’ve been really pleased and proud of what he’s done.”
Against Tennessee Week 2, Lake was graded a 89.3 from PFF, allowing just two catches for four yards while adding a pressure and seven tackles. A week later, he topped that with a 91.2 grade versus the Eagles, breaking up four passes — tied for the third-most in a single game by a Rams defender.
Lake was one of the few defensive bright spots against the 49ers last Thursday as well, totaling 11 tackles (seven solo) and a pass breakup. In just five games so far, Lake has played every single defensive snap while racking up 33 tackles and nine passes defended.
McVay again praised Lake on the “Coach McVay Show,” calling him “a total stud” and “everywhere” on the field.
Lake has earned a pay bump, and clearly the team and coaching staff love him, but it will remain to be seen how it will be handle. Taking into considerate WR Puka Nacua, DT Kobie Turner and Edge rusher Byron Young are all going to be up for contracts over the next year or so makes the decision that much more difficult. On top of that, pass rush duo Jared Verse and Braden Fiske are coming up right behind them. While Lake has been a pivot part of the Rams secondary this season, is his value enough to put him above one of those guys?
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