When the Atlanta Falcons opted not to tender linebacker Nate Landman this offseason, the undrafted free agent was on the open market again at age 26. Given his proven special teams ability and knack for creating takeaways, the Zimbabwe native was underwhelmed by his options moving into 2025.
"Not as much (interest from other teams) as you'd like. Which is fine. It's the way the league goes," the fourth-year pro said Monday on a new episode of Rams Revealed. "But I think I'm right where I need to be. I'm so happy to be here, and that path was clear towards the end… Once the Rams came into the conversation, it was like alright this is the place I need to be. This is a great fit."
Landman said when he signed in LA, he did so with the aspiration to compete for the starting job. And given his history at the MIKE linebacker position, he knew that responsibility often comes with the "green dot" – the helmet that has the communication system allowing defensive coordinator Chris Shula to call the defense through him.
"It's a great part of the job. It's a part of the job I enjoy."
Being around the Rams during the offseason program, there was little doubt that Landman had earned the right to be atop the depth chart. Late in the summer, he was voted one of seven captains (three of which hail from the defensive side of the ball). This despite the fact he'd made just 23 NFL starts and had been in Woodland Hills only four months.
"It's the coolest thing that's ever happened to me and it's a great honor – something I'm super proud of and super grateful for that the guys trust me with that badge."
Landman's first afternoon at SoFi Stadium was capped by a signature punch-out, a precision play that preserved a 14-9 win. With his parents in attendance, he finished with a share of the team tackling lead and a swing of the right arm that serves as the first blow landed by the 2025 Rams.
Landman and company did not surrender a touchdown in their opening win over Houston. They'll continue their tour of the AFC South on Sunday in Nashville, a Week 2 contest that will serve at the home debut for this year's top overall selection, quarterback Cam Ward.
Rams Revealed is also on YouTube or in audio format wherever you get your podcasts.
