Rams Moving On From DC Wade Phillips

According to Gary Klein, the Rams have told DC Wade Phillips he will not be retained in 2020. 

Phillips confirmed the news via his Twitter account: 

I have been informed by the Rams that my contract will not be renewed.
I want to thank them for the opportunity to be a part of their success the last 3years. Most of all I want to thank the players who I loved workings with. I still want to coach and feel I can contribute.

— Wade Phillips (@sonofbum) January 6, 2020

This move doesn’t come as a major surprise, as it was reported a few weeks ago the Rams were considering shaking things up on the defensive side of the football after Phillips’ contract expired in 2019.

Phillips should still be in strong demand as a defensive coordinator and land with another team. Rams LB coach Joe Barry is a candidate to be promoted to defensive coordinator. 

Phillips, 72, began his NFL coaching career with the Oilers back in 1976 and has worked for several teams in a number of capacities. He has served as the head coach of the  Broncos, Bills and Cowboys before returning to the Broncos as their defensive coordinator in 2015.

Phillips joined the Rams for the 2017 and has spent the past three seasons as their defensive coordinator. 

This season, the Rams’ defense ranked No. 15 in total points allowed, No. 24 in rushing yards allowed, No. 6 in passing yards allowed and No. 12 in total yards allowed.