Should Rams bring back 2023 draft class member?

TL;DR

The Los Angeles Rams are considering bringing back cornerback Tre Tomlinson after he was cut by the 49ers. Tomlinson, a sixth-round draft pick in 2023, struggled in his rookie season but could provide depth on the practice squad.

Key points

Rams are considering bringing back Tre Tomlinson
Tomlinson was cut by the 49ers after a brief stint
He struggled in coverage during his rookie season
Tomlinson primarily played special teams for the Rams
Rams have improved depth at cornerback this offseason

Los Angeles RamsSan Francisco 49ersTre Tomlinson

THOUSAND OAKS, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 4: Tre Tomlinson #6 of the Los Angeles Rams warms up during an NFL football organized team activity on June 4, 2024 in Thousand Oaks, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Los Angeles Rams addressed the cornerback position this offseason, but could always use additional depth pieces. L.A. should consider bringing back 2023 sixth-round draftee Tre Tomlinson in some capacity after the 49ers cut him earlier this week. San Francisco claimed the TCU product off waivers in March 2025, just a day after the Rams cut him. He didn’t play a single game with the team following his one-year stint in the Bay Area. That is essentially the story of his brief NFL career in a nutshell. Tomlinson came to L.A. as an All-American and reigning Jim Thorpe Award winner, given to the top defensive back in college football. His impressive coverage skills did not translate to the pros. He appeared in 15 games during his rookie campaign and was absolutely dreadful in coverage in limited opportunities, giving up five completions on six targets, one touchdown and a perfect passer rating of 158.3. Tomlinson primarily played on special teams during his Rams tenure. According to Pro Football Reference, he played 78% of the team’s special teams snaps during the 2023 season, compared to 5% on defense. Following a season-ending stint on IR, Tomlinson was released last offseason. The only way the Rams should consider a reunion with Tomlinson is as a depth piece. Based on his initial time in Los Angeles, he is not a starting-caliber corner whatsoever. At best, he would fit on the practice squad because he has familiarity with the system after spending his first two NFL seasons with the team. Fans will likely cringe at the thought of him returning, but what’s the harm in stashing him on the practice squad and developing him further? The Rams are much better positioned at cornerback than they were a year ago after double-dipping at the position in free agency. Bringing back Tomlinson would only add to the depth, but he should only be played in an emergency capacity if the defense ever requires his services again.

Q&A

Why did the Rams consider bringing back Tre Tomlinson?

The Rams are looking for additional depth at cornerback, and Tomlinson has familiarity with the team's system after spending two seasons with them.

What were Tre Tomlinson's stats during his rookie season with the Rams?

In his rookie season, Tomlinson appeared in 15 games, giving up five completions on six targets and recording a perfect passer rating of 158.3 against him.

What is Tre Tomlinson's current status in the NFL?

Tomlinson was recently cut by the 49ers and is being considered by the Rams for a potential return as a depth piece on the practice squad.