Why Braden Fiske could be poised for a breakout year in 2026

Brock Vierra, Rams WireSun, June 14, 2026 at 1:01 PM UTC

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Why Braden Fiske could be poised for a breakout year in 2026

Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Braden Fiske had a quieter year on the stat sheet than expected after a breakout rookie season. His 2025 production was affected by several factors, including an early-season injury and a changing scheme.

However, when Fiske is on his game, he's one of the best interior pass rushers in the NFL, as made evident by his rookie-leading 8.5 sacks in 2024. Currently, Fiske finds himself as the beneficiary of one of the most enviable situations for a pass rusher.

When the Rams added Myles Garrett, they added a piece that not only requires a double team when the opposition wishes to pass, but also the one key Seattle exploited in the NFC Championship Game. Garrett is able to defend the run, while simultaneously being able to rush the passer against multiple-tight end formations and play action.

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Not only will Garrett's presence – paired with Kobie Turner and Poona Ford – force teams to pass more often, but when the Rams know the opposition will be throwing the ball, they have various pass-rushing threats that play right into Fiske's strong suits. Their plethora of versatile defensive backs will allow the team to mirror different blitz packages with corresponding coverages, giving Fiske and the defensive line the extra second needed to turn a pressure into a sack.

On top of that, Garrett and Turner are virtual guarenteed double teams, likely setting Fiske up with repeated one-on-one matchups. To make things better, Fiske's speed advancing upfield is the perfect tool, as exterior speed threats such as Byron Young and Josaiah Stewart will push quarterbacks right into Fiske's grasp.

Expect Fiske to have a breakout season. The Rams have designed their defense to make it happen.

This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams' Braden Fiske could be poised for a breakout year in 2026

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Source: “AOL Sports”