The St. Louis Rams are headed into an offseason filled with players who need to be re-signed. Those players include Trumaine Johnson, Janoris Jenkins, Brian Quick and Mark Barron. Each of these players has a key role on the team, but general manager Les Snead will have some difficult decisions to make, specifically at the cornerback spot. With both Johnson and Jenkins set to hit the market as top cornerbacks, it is highly unlikely that they will be able to bring both of them back. However, the Rams can’t afford to lose Jenkins this offseason.

Playing in a contract year, Jenkins had one of his best seasons as a pro. “Jack Rabbit” had 15 passes defended this year which was a career best and ranked 14th in the NFL. He also had three interceptions which was one shy of his rookie year best. While he didn’t have any flashy plays, Jenkins became a solid starter while proving he can be a No. 1 corner and stay healthy.

Prior to the season, the Rams tried to lock up the cornerback long term, but were unable to do so as they didn’t meet Jenkins’ price tag. He then cut off contract talks at the Week 6 bye to focus on the rest of the season.

Jenkins has been a reliable playmaker, and there is no reason to believe that he won’t continue to do so. Meanwhile, Johnson has failed to play all 16 games the last two seasons and had more interceptions this year(7) than the last two combined (6). Jenkins has been the more consistent cornerback over four years.

The Rams will need to do whatever it takes to bring Jenkins back. He gives the defense a true No. 1 cornerback for the future. Choosing between Johnson and Jenkins won’t be easy, but in the long run, re-signing Jenkins is the right choice.