The Rams have experienced a significant loss in their coaching staff, with six members departing in 2023, five of whom have joined the Atlanta Falcons. The intriguing question is why young and promising coaches like K.J. Black and Nick Jones chose to follow Raheem Morris to Atlanta, and what might be unfolding behind the scenes.
Let’s explore the possible reasons behind this scenario.
The departure of Zac Robinson, the Rams’ quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator, to the Falcons for a promotion created an expectation that K.J. Black, who began with the Rams through the Bill Walsh coaching fellowship program, might step into one of those roles. However, Black decided to join the Falcons alongside Robinson in the same capacity. This lateral move could have been blocked by Sean McVay, but he chose not to intervene. The question arises: Why did Black make this move?
Black, a young and talented coach with a background as a college-level quarterback, collaborated closely with Zac Robinson in Los Angeles, contributing to the development of quarterbacks like Bryce Perkins, Baker Mayfield, Matthew Stafford, John Wolford, and Carson Wentz. Despite his affinity for working with McVay, Black may have felt a stronger connection to Robinson, prompting him to follow Robinson due to their close coaching relationship.
The potential return of Jake Peetz to the coaching staff might have indicated a challenging path for Black to take over Robinson’s role directly. In the absence of clear promotion prospects, Black may have opted to continue working with Robinson. It is unlikely that Black would have turned down a promotion to a lesser position just to stay with Robinson. Another factor could be McVay’s inclination towards a more experienced coaching staff.
With the promotion of Chris Shula to defensive coordinator, it is noteworthy that Shula possesses as much experience with the Rams as McVay. Additionally, the addition of Giff Smith, a coach with league experience since 2010 and at the age of 55, suggests McVay’s interest in an experienced direction. While this doesn’t necessarily imply a desire to part ways with Black, it could explain McVay’s openness to Black making a lateral move, especially if it involves assisting Raheem Morris.
