The Las Vegas Raiders have a few key players set to hit free agency this offseason, including edge rusher Malcolm Koonce. The 26-year-old missed the entire 2024 season due to a torn ACL but had a breakout 2023 campaign where he posted eight sacks and 52 quarterback pressures and is one of the most intriguing players on the market.
The Raiders should look to retain Koonce in free agency, but FanSided’s Nick Villano predicts the young defender will sign with the Los Angeles Rams.
“One thing we know about the Los Angeles Rams is they love to find a player they can mold into a superstar. Whether it’s getting someone in the NFL Draft and playing into the lineup right away, or it’s finding those players in free agency who are major bargains. Malcolm Koonce isn’t going to sign for free, but he’s the type of player to way outperform his contract,” Villano wrote.
“Koonce still has room to grow, but there was this ability he showed that makes him an ideal candidate to sign a decent contract and then build his profile. We have to remember the Rams are the team that came the closest to beating the Eagles in the playoffs. That’s not nothing. A few smart moves this offseason, and the Rams could be true contenders,” Villano added.
The Rams’ defense was outstanding in 2024, especially the pass rush led by Defensive Rookie of the Year Jared Verse, Byron Young, Kobie Turner, and others. However, general manager Les Snead should look to take the unit to the next level in 2025 by signing Koonce.
The former Buffalo standout could step right in as a starter but could also serve as a valuable rotational pass rusher behind Verse and Young. Koonce may start slow next year due to coming off a significant injury, but when fully healthy, he’s a versatile defender who can also help out in the run game.
Pro Football Focus projects Koonce will land a two-year deal worth $37.5 million with $20 million guaranteed on the open market, while Spotrac believes the 2021 third-round pick will receive a $40 million contract over two seasons.
Los Angeles is set to have around $38 million in cap space this offseason, per Over the Cap, which should be enough money to sign Koonce and address other potential needs on the roster.
Overall, adding Malcolm Koonce does come with some risk, as he is coming off a knee injury that caused him to play zero snaps in 2024. However, the former Day 2 pick was a productive player the last time he was on the field and would be a savvy acquisition from the Rams.
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