Los Angeles Rams star Byron Young enters the 2026 season with growing expectations surrounding one of the team’s most promising defensive players. After steadily establishing himself as an important contributor, Young has emerged as a leading breakout candidate and a player many believe is ready to take a significant step forward in his development.
The Rams have built a reputation for identifying and developing defensive talent, and Young appears to be the latest example of that approach. Since arriving in Los Angeles, the edge rusher has displayed the athleticism, motor and pass-rushing ability necessary to succeed at the professional level. His production has steadily improved, providing encouraging signs that a larger role and greater impact may be on the horizon.
Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Rams linebacker Byron Young (0) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
One of the primary reasons for optimism is the environment surrounding Young. Opposing offenses must devote significant attention to several established playmakers on the Rams’ defense, creating opportunities for other defenders to capitalize. He has already demonstrated an ability to take advantage of favorable matchups, and continued growth in his technique could allow him to become an even more disruptive force off the edge.
The timing of a potential breakout could not be more important for both player and team. Los Angeles continues to pursue championship contention in a highly competitive NFC, and defensive consistency will be essential to achieving that goal. A major leap from Young would strengthen the pass rush and provide the Rams with another impact defender capable of changing games through pressure and big plays.
NFL Analysis Names Byron Young as Los Angeles Rams’ Top Breakout Candidate
Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Rams linebacker Byron Young (0) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Young was identified as Los Angeles’ main breakout candidate for the 2026 NFL season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Zachary Pereles for CBS Sports.
It can be difficult to find an under-the-radar star on a team with so many very much on-the-radar stars, but Byron Young fits the bill here. He has already played very well — PFF had him as the No. 10 EDGE in the NFL last year — and now he’ll get a ton of one-on-one opportunities with Myles Garrett on the opposite side. Last year, Young notched 12 sacks and made his first Pro Bowl, but he probably wouldn’t come to mind if you had to list the Rams’ top stars. Still, he appears to be on his way to becoming one. His 16.8% pressure rate last year was 11th in the league.
Coaches have expressed confidence in Young’s work ethic and development, and his progress has not gone unnoticed throughout the organization. The edge rusher has embraced the challenge of expanding his role while continuing to refine the details of his game. As his experience increases, so too does the expectation that he can evolve into one of the defense’s most reliable contributors.
The Rams have consistently relied on young players to emerge and elevate the roster, and Young appears positioned to follow that tradition. His combination of talent, opportunity and experience has created the conditions for a potential breakthrough season. If he continues progressing at his current pace, Young could become one of the NFL’s most improved defenders and a key factor in Los Angeles’ pursuit of success throughout the 2026 campaign.