In 2004, after defensive coordinator Lovie Smith departed to become head coach of the Chicago Bears, Sheldon's focus switched from the defensive secondary to linebackers, working with linebackers coach Joe Vitt and new defensive coordinator Larry Marmie. The 2004 Rams finished the regular season 8-8, earning another playoff bid as a wild card and a playoff date at the division-champion Seattle Seahawks. The Rams beat the Mike Holmgren-led Seahawks before losing in the divisional round to the Atlanta Falcons.
