Los Angeles Rams outside linebacker Byron Young is heading into the final year of his contract, but he has had greater goals in mind.
He checked that box off the list, drawing attention from his teammates in the process, and can now move forward as his camp and the Rams determine what his future with the organization looks like after the 2026 season.
This could be a pivotal campaign for the Rams’ reigning sack leader.
Byron Young Celebrates Major Life Achievement
GettyLos Angeles Rams outside linebacker Byron Young celebrated major personal news on Saturday.
Young just completed his third season in the NFL and with the Rams, who selected him in the 2023 draft after his two seasons at the University of Tennessee.
On Saturday, Young celebrated his graduation from the program.
“Educated Successful Black Man! [graduate and hands together/praying emojis],” Young said in the caption of the post on Instagram on May 16, including an image of himself in his cap, gown, and stole and receiving his diploma on stage.
Young’s post drew a slew of responses from his teammates, and even from the Rams, who posted, “Congratulations!!!”
Wide receiver Puka Nacua posted, “Yessirski.”
Even new teammate Trent McDuffie, whom the Rams acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Kansas City Chiefs earlier this offseason, joined in the celebration, saying, “Congrats gang [fire emojis].”
Rams safety Kamren Kinchens said, “Congrats,” which former St. Louis Ram Chris Long echoed in his comment.
Defensive lineman and Rams teammate Kobie Turner posted, “Yessir bro.”
Rams Facing Critical Roster Decisions
GettyKobie Turner is one of several Los Angeles Rams entering critical contract windows.
Turner’s comment is fitting, and not just because he and Young are both 2023 third-round selections. It also comes just one day after he delivered the commencement speech at the University of Richmond, where he spent five seasons before transferring to Wake Forest.
Similarly, Young spent two seasons at the Georgia Military College before transferring to UT for the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
Turner and Young represent a key shift for the Rams.
The Rams’ front office has been in talent acquisition mode. That is particularly true as they look to make the most of their remaining time with Matthew Stafford. Now, though, some of the Rams’ focus must shift to player retention.
Young led the Rams with 12.0 sacks in 2025, earning Pro Bowl honors. Turner was second on the team with 8.0 sacks during the 2024 season.
The duo is just the tip of the iceberg for the Rams, too.
Rams’ Finances a Focus Moving Forward
GettyByron Young and Jared Verse could wind up being a costly duo for the Los Angeles Rams.
Nacua–a fifth-round pick in that pivotal 2023 draft class–and 2024 draft standouts Braden Fiske and Jared Verse, the Defensive Rookie of the Year in his class, will be extension-eligible next offseason.
The Rams are also in talks with Stafford, the reigning MVP, about an extension.
Both Young and Turner are due substantial raises on their next contracts. Young, in particular, could cash in as a player at a premium position.
How far the Rams are willing to go will be heavily influenced by their plans for the other players who are also due new money. The Rams have $25.7 million in space as of May 16, per Over The Cap. They are projected to be $94.7 million below the limit in 2027.
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