Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams The Los Angeles Rams made a corresponding move today to activate Aaron Donald on the active 53-man roster. Enabling Donald, meant the team needed to create a roster spot opening by releasing one player.
Rams waived OL Jamil Demby, subsequently after activating Donald, to the active roster. Demby, a rookie, drafted in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, played collegiately at the University of Maine. Rams are optimistic for Demby to clear waivers as they will more than likely add him to their practice squad roster and will need to make a spot for that to occur.
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Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams Now that Los Angeles Rams have finalized their 53-man roster, the Rams have begun to prepare for their Monday Night Football match-up against the Oakland Raiders. The game is expected to have a sellout crowd at the Oakland Coliseum, and that these two teams will be anxious to get on the field and play. This game will be the second time in three years that the Rams have faced off against a team from the Bay area on opening Monday night. That game to fare too well as the San Francisco 49ers shutout the Rams 28-0 with a team that was picked to lose to the Rams. The 49ers had just come off one of the worst offseason as they lost their head coach Jim Harbaugh (irreconcilable difference), and with All-Pro middle linebacker Patrick Willis, DT Justin Smith, rookie LB Chris Borland, and OL Anthony Davis all to retirement. That 2016 Rams were slated to have one of the top five defenses with a solid front seven of DT's Aaron Donald and Michael Brockers, DE's William Hayes and Robert Quinn, and LB's Mark Barron and Alec Ogletree. But, the 49ers kept the defense on its heels the entire game frustrating players were fights ensued and ejections given. This is a changed team and the Rams def---uh well maybe I should mention, this is a whole entirely different team that is coached by a young, smart, intelligent and vibrant head coach. Sean McVay, the youngest head coach to be hired in the modern era engineers the offense while the mad wizard defensive coordinator Wade Phillips mixes up the defense. The Raiders will be without their All-Pro 2016 Defensive Player of the Year, Khalil Mack whom they surprisingly traded on Sunday morning to the Chicago Bears for two first-round drafts picks. Aaron Donald, the reigning 2017 Defensive Player of the Year, ended his holdout with the Rams on Friday signing a record mega six-year contract extension of $141M ($90M fully guaranteed), a $40M signing bonus that will pay him $22.5M per season. Just one day later after the Mack trade, the Bears solidified him as the highest paid defender in NFL by agreeing with Mack to a six-year $137M deal, ($90M fully guaranteed), a $60M signing bonus paying him $23.5M per year. This trade no doubt will set the Raiders defense and franchise in that matter, back perhaps another five years with trading away arguably the second-best defensive player in the league. In any event, it appears that the Rams offensive preparation will be a bit relieved they don't have to worry about Mack. Rams running back Todd Gurley was asked by a reporter: Todd- a year ago the outside expectations were really low both for the team and you personally. What--- how do things feel different now as oppose to 12 months ago? Gurley, but--uh say that again? Reporter: The outside expectations you know -- really low a year ago you know and nobody expected a lot out of the Rams uh-- and really you know numbers-wise, you feel different now? Gurley answered: Um---I ain't really been thinking about half that stuff honestly!" Gurley received an entirely of laughs and chuckles from the media crew, but that won't stop his wish from meeting Mack. Gurley may have joked a bit prematurely as the Bears will be hosting the Rams Week #14 at Soldier Field. The game will be played early on a Sunday morning perhaps the coldest days of the year. Last season the Rams had the highest scoring offense in the league averaging 29.9 points per game. They scored 478 points last season doubling the amount in 2016 when the team only score 224 points. They were able to take the worst offensive meltdown the previous season to them becoming the number one productive offense producing the 2017 Offensive Player of the Year in Gurley. But let's not to stuck on the offense as we address later in this article. However, the hype all offseason long has been about the Rams defense. Les Snead, the Rams general manager, was able to pull off some crafty trades. First, he accomplished trades with the New York Giants and the Miami Dolphins shipping Alec Ogletree to the Giants and Robert Quinn to the Miami Dolphins. After restructuring Tavon Austin contract, he was able to trade him to the Dallas Cowboys. The Rams were able to obtain two fourth-round picks, and three six round picks for the trades. Snead did not stop there as he pulled off trade with Kansas City Chiefs acquiring All-Pro corner Marcus Peters, and another deal with the Denver Broncos acquiring corner All-Pro Aqib Talib. The Rams traded away future picks of a second round, a fourth-round, and a sixth-round as part of the deals. The Rams now have two lockdown corners on the outside that covers well. They will also have a lockdown slot corner who can cover the tough slot receivers in the game in Nickell Robey-Coleman. The Dolphins released All-Pro Ndamukong Suh, and several teams were in the running to collect his service. It all went down to the wire as Suh chose the Rams over the New Orleans Saints and the Tennessee Titans, signing a one year $14M contract to play at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for the Rams. The pass rush and run stopping demon playing between the two of Michael Brockers and Donald. Three competent defensive linemen who play well against the run and are excellent pass rushers. The opposing offensive coordinators and quarterback will preview the movie first called "Rush Hour Three," Rated V-(Violent). The concern with the linebacker core was the main topic going into the offseason, as the Rams trading away two linebackers. They Matt Longacre and Samson Ebukam both slated at outside but needed a replacement for Ogletree. The Rams acquired Ramick Wilson via free-agency this past March as a potential starter, and also drafted Micah Kiser, the rookie from the University of Virginia. Kiser played exceptionally well this preseason as he led all defenders with 22 tackles (three unassisted), doubling the amount to the closest person. They would also sign Tegray Scales from the University of Indiana as a UDFA, but he didn't survive the final roster cuts, and surprisingly not signed to the practice squad. The Rams are returning two linebackers who are fighting for the other inside position opposite of Barron, Corey Littleton, and Bryce Hager. Hager looked well in the preseason by flying around like a craze stuntman, but it appeared Littleton seemed to impress the coaches to secure the starting job for now. However, back to Snead, he was able to maneuver yet another intelligent trade just before 2018 NFL Draft by sending the Rams #23rd overall pick to the Patriots including a sixth-round pick in exchange for Brandin Cooks and a fourth-round pick in return. Many questioned the trade at first, but it made more sense instead of the Rams drafting a receiver they would need to develop. They were efficient by getting a polished receiver who's had four consecutive years of 1,000 yards receiving. Goff will have Cooks, Woods, and Kupp as the primary go-to receivers which each of the three hides different styles on the field. Perhaps the craftiness of the three, the award has to go second-year receiver Kupp. Kupp has deceptive speed, and his route running put defensive backs on their heels. He disguises his routes to look the same, and they are not sure if he's running deep or underneath. Woods is speedy and can hurt any defense with any pass route. Just ask the New York Giants and Houston Texans defenses where he scored on a 52 and 96-yard touchdown passes. Cooks, the speedster of the three, can be gadget guy, who can run the reverses, the quick slants, and take the top off the defenses. Rams love acquiring Cooks as he will keep the defenses honest. The Rams lost Sammy Watkins who opted to sign with the Chiefs this off-season, as it appeared the Rams traded for a much more talented receiver in Cooks. Jared Goff was now equipped with another weapon to compliment Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp. They grow a bit thin after those three with Pharoh Cooper used more as a return specialist, Josh Reynolds yet to shine, and Mike Thomas excels in the return game. The Rams have on their practice squad a young rookie receiver from Prairie View A&M of the name of KhaDarel Hodge. Hodge had a spectacular pre-season with one fantastic reception of 47-yards against the Raiders at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Expect for Hodge to be promoted before the mid-point this season if the number four or five receiver is unproductive. Rams need to elevate Hodge soon, as he is not safe, while another team potentially will sign him off the Rams practice squad. The tight end core which consists of Tyler Higbee, Gerald Everett, and Johnny Mundt, Everett is the one who poses the most significant threat as an offensive weapon. Everett which selected in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft from South Alabama, is expected to have a huge impact this season Everett hampered by an injured shoulder that he sustained early in training camp, is on track to play Monday night. Higbee, the specific red zone threat, will be targeted a great deal around the end zone. The Rams will return quarterback Jared Goff for his third year and second consecutive season as a starter. Goff under the tutelage of rookie head coach Sean McVay put a lot of doubters to bed with his impressive year as a passer. Goff passed for over 3,800 yards, 28 touchdowns with only seven interceptions, and a quarterback rating of 100.5, completing 62.1 of his passes. Goff numbers were good enough while being selected to 2018 Pro-Bowl as an alternate. Ultimately with the injury to Carson Wentz of the Philadelphia Eagles, they added Goff to the NFC team. At times Goff played like a ten-year veteran carving up defenses with his precise passes to his receivers. Goff set a career high in passing in two consecutive games of 311 and 355 yards including three touchdowns in both games to become the first Ram ever to accomplish. The likes of a Marc Bulger, Jim Everett, Roman Gabriel, Norm Van Brocklin, and Kurt Warner was not successful with that achievement. Hard to believe that Kurt Warner never accomplished that fate with the type of number he put to be named the 1999 NFL MVP. Goff, and San Franciso bay area native from Novato, CA returns home with his backup Sean Mannion, who too is a native also from Pleasanton, Ca. When it comes to the backup, Mannion and Brandon Allen, their preseason play was nothing to write home about positively. Mannion who had a better game week two against the Raiders than in week one, as a Baltimore Ravens defense battered him. The Rams offensive line will need to protect Goff by all means cost, forbid if he should suffer a severe injury, the dream season for the Rams could come tumbling down fast. During the preseason, Coach McVay preferred to have the majority of his starters inactive for preseason games. He didn't only sit Goff, the 2017 NFL Offensive Player of the Year Todd Gurley sat the games out too. McVay's philosophy along with this his Head Trainer Reggie Scott, and Ted Rath Head Strength Coach resting the veteran players and limit the amount of contact and practice to have fresh bodies on game day. This method seemed to be very active as Gurley made an MVP run that fell short. Gurley's 2017 season had a magical run setting career mark in rushing with 1,305 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, and career in receiving yards of 788 yards and six touchdowns. McVay was able to unleash the beast against the league's defenses, as he played excellently. Gurley backup is Malcolm Brown, but its very possible that rookie John Kelly will make a strong push demanding to receive a more action. He ran the ball very angrily during the preseason, and nothing was far more beautiful than his third and goal play against the Houston Texans. Following a penalty, the official marked the ball back to the Texans 15-yard line. Kelly received the handoff, and with a spectacular spin move he was in the end zone for the touchdown and putting the Rams back front breaking a 14-14 tie. A powerful runner with deceptive speed, and shiftiness of a change of pace back, he'll be a complete compliment to Gurley. The Rams more than likely will rely on the punting of Johnny Hekker and the strong leg of Greg Zuerline as his booming kicks neutralizing returners from advancing the ball. Zuerline as well is capable of kicking field goals just about anywhere on the field. Rams seize the opportunities to take advantage with his leg and is optimistic Zuerline can continue to do what he does in the past. His 2017 season was cut short to a herniated disc that required season-ending surgery, resulting him missing the playoff game. However, it appears he as not had any setbacks and his kicking leg is as strong as usual. Look for the Rams to have an explosive offense against the Raiders, as they will try and duplicate the 2017 season as the Rams were the highest-scoring offense in the league. The defense is prepared to get to Derek Carr early often and harass him the entire game. Nonetheless, this team is an early favorite to make a Superbowl run and bring home the Lombardy Trophy and crowned world champions. But let’s not put the cart before the horse, anything could happen on a given Sunday, just asked the Saints or Steelers, two favorites two be upset by lower seeds. The Raiders will be playing their first season under new head coach John Gruden, the same coach that lead them to 2001 AFC Divisional Playoff game in Foxboro, where the infamous tuck rule suddenly introduced into the game. We all can remember that play as cornerback Charles Woodson blitzing from the slot hitting Tom Brady forcing the fumble as the Raiders recovered the ball that which would have advanced them to the 2001 AFC Championship. That play went down in history as the officiating crew robbed the Raiders. Nonetheless, they received their opportunity the next following season to advance to the super bowl. But strangely enough, as it turned out, Gruden was traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers that offseason. Yes, Gruden and Al Davis had some internal issues, Davis granted a trade to Tampa Bay when they reached out on an inquiry. Unfortunately, Davis trading Gruden didn't work to his advantage as the Bucs ended up advancing to the super bowl handed out a beat down to the Raiders. The Raiders seem to never recover from that super bowl lost until they advanced to the playoff in 2016 for the first time since 2002. Paul Guenther, the Raiders defensive coordinator, will need to prepare a perfect game plan for the Rams offense that featured no plays worth scheming or any starters playing during the preseason. The Raiders defense took a catastrophic hit from the Mack trade. There is no other defender on that roster that has registered over than ten sacks in a season. However, the Raiders signed veteran defensive players such as LB Tarik Whitehead (Lions), DE Tank Carradine (49ers), CB Leon Hall (49ers), S Marcus Gilchrist (Jets), DB Dominique Rogers-Cromartie (Giants), and MLB Derrick Johnson (Chiefs) to the team during the free-agency period. The Raiders also drafted on the defensive side of the ball selecting in the second-round PJ Hall DT (Sam Houston St), third round Arden Key EDGE RUSHER (LSU), fourth round Nick Nelson CB (Wisconsin), and Maurice Hurt DT (Michigan). Hall has tremendous upside almost of a caliber of Donald, strong, dominant defensive lineman that has excellent speed for his size, is listed as a starter. The Raiders drafted a steal with their fifth-round selection with Hurst. Hurst was sent home early from the 2018 NFL Combine. During a medical evaluation, the physicians determined there were medical concerns with his heart. There was unable to participate in the combine with the worries of getting his problem corrected. Hurst was cleared to participate again with football activities just before Michigan's pro-day. However, Hurst draft status became affected and scared several teams away who removed him from their draft boards. Hurst was projected to be a top ten draft pick; however, teams avoided him in the early rounds as the Raiders steal a gem in the fifth. Hurst will back up Hall, as he's the defensive tackle on the depth chart. EDGE RUSHER Arden Key is another Raider's defensive rookie that to projected as a late first rounder. Key had some off the field issue subsequently to leave school for a semester. He returned to school later rejuvenated but failed to answer any questions for his leave. Not being forthright caused teams to turn away ultimately prompting him to slip in the draft. Key is a very athletic player, who has tremendous speed from the outside with a variety of pass rush moves. Very explosive in getting around the tackles from the edge with extremely long arms. I certainly can't wait to seem to line up opposite of the Andrew Whitworth and Rob Havenstein, who will win those matchups? The other interesting matchup will be Hall against Rodger Saffold, and Justin Ellis against Austin Blythe, who will replace the Jamon Brown the suspended starting right guard. Blythe who is the backup center has a few games under his belt at playing at the guard position. Who gets the edge in this matchup, I will wait to view this battle. The Raiders defensive backfield will have their hands full with covering Rams receivers. Second-year corner Gareon Conley will be more than likely covering the speedy Brandin Cooks. Cooks the talented receiver who can do it all on the field from short routes to taking the roof off the defenses. Raashan Melvin will have the assignment of cover Woods, but he will have his work out with the smart receiver. The million dollar question is who will be responsible for Kupp. Of the three receivers, Kupp is most craftiness. He has deceptive speed with excellent route running that will drive the defenders crazy. Rogers-Cromartie or Hall will be matched up with Kupp, can't wait to watch that program. Finally, there is Karl "The Hitman" Joseph, he's certainly one person the Rams will have to keep a watch on throughout the game. Joseph is a fierce hitter that will come up crush a back or punish a receiver. However, he tends to hit with the crown of his helmet and will collect penalties just about everytime he's tackling. As a safety, his coverage skills are reliable, and he's deceptive in the defensive backfield. Goff will not get away with staring down his receivers as Joseph will make a break on the ball. I will love to see the Rams in a four-wide receiver set with Reynolds or Everett, curiosity with a vertical passing game will be a problem for the defensive backfield. Determining factors for the Rams to win versus the Raiders: The Raiders offensive line vs. the Rams defensive front:The Raiders will be starting a rookie at left tackle Kolton Miller on the same side Aaron Donald will line up inside of his gap, and Ebukam or Longacre is bringing pressure from the outside. Gruden must feel very confident starting a rookie at left tackle and trusting him to protect his franchise quarterback. Carr had a transverse process fracture to his back last season that caused him to miss several weeks. Whether he's fully recovered from that injury, Gruden convinced that Miller could keep Carr upright. Brockers will be a tough matchup for Donald Penn as the veteran left tackle has shifted to the right tackle. Penn admitted himself that its a work in progress being accepting the fact he never played that position. Suh, well expect Suh to be Suh, as he'll be lined up over Raiders starting center Rodney Hudson. Suh will attract a lot of attention from double-teamielp byng h Gabe Jackson or Kelechi Osemele, and the Rams linebackers will plug the gaps. I love this Rams defensive front, as it seems as if it will be a nightmare for the Raiders "big uglies." Suh, can control a double team and nevertheless can still disrupt a play by his size and strength. Continuing to write on this matchups is entirely indescribable and wait to Monday night to witness. Amari Cooper vs. Marcus PetersIn 2016, early in these two player careers, Peters was matched up against Cooper. Peters, a natural press corner, inserted into a defensive alignment that played against his strengths. Playing off seven to nine yards from the line of scrimmage, Cooper was able to expose Peters weakness with doubled moves routes.
The Chiefs coaching staff realized Peter's exposure and fulfilled an adjustment that served as Peters strength. Peters weakness at that time, he didn't possess the recovery speed to was required to stay step for step with Cooper. Cooper only had his way with his passing routes getting open for many targets. You should expect to notice that Peters will accompany Cooper all over the field as the game starts. I'm confident that Phillips has studied game film of the past matchups and he will have Peters pressing Cooper early and often. Jack Olsen, the two-time former offensive coordinator of the Rams, decides to signal in the double move routes, surely Phillips will have Joyner shading over the top for secondary assistance. When in its all said it done, it will come down to the teacher versus the student, will Chucky prevail or will the energizer bunny turn in his textbook, stay tuned. Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams The Los Angeles Rams have released their seventh-round draft selection of the 2018 NFL Draft Travin Howard with an injury reserve settlement.
Howard, who played collegiately at TCU, where he led the Horn Frogs in tackles in three consecutive` season. The undersized linebacker was a long shot at making the team, had to potential and talent, but caught up in a numbers game at the depth chart. Howard injury is unknown of record, however, wish him well and expect to see him back in the league soon. Ed "Pi Double i" Henderson WorldWide Rams The Los Angeles Rams have resigned Isaiah Johnson to their practice squad roster one day after waiving him from the 53-man roster. Johnson has been back and forth on the Rams active and practices roster the last couple of seasons.
His release came just before the Rams Monday's night game against the Oakland Raiders at the Oakland Coliseum, as the Rams removed Aaron Donald's exemption to adjust the roster to 53-players. Donald ended his holdout with the team last Friday signing a mega contract extension that will pay $135M for the next six seasons. Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams According to sources the Los Angeles Rams have released defensive back, Isaiah Johnson.
Johnson has been back and forth on the Rams active and practices roster the last couple of season. Johnson was a surprise to make the Rams roster as the Rams did last season with Nicholas Grigsby. In anticipation of Monday's night game against the Oakland Raiders at the Oakland Coliseum, Rams currently had a 53-man roster with an exemption for Aaron Donald. Donald ended his holdout with the team last Friday signing a mega contract extension. Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams The Los Angeles Rams have finalized their 10-man practice squad roster by adding offensive Evan Beohm, a former Arizona Cardinal. Rams addressed the need for another lineman that has some NFL experience but will start on the practice squad.
Boehm was selected in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft from the University of Missouri, a school he gave a verbal commitment in junior high. He started all four years at Mizzou with a streak of 52 consecutive games. He began as a guard and center and has the versatility to play all positions of the line. He was the starting right guard for a total of nine games in just his second season with the Cardinals but lost his job to Earl Watford. Boehm was waived by the Cardinals two days ago as the team signed an additional of three linemen. In addition to adding Boehm, the Rams released DE Ryan Davis with injury settlement. Adding Boehm to the practice squad, the Rams will receive an exemption. Doug NelsonWorldWide Rams OVERVIEW
The Rams made their final preseason roster cuts Saturday, leaving them with a projected final list to start the 2018 regular season. The Rams did receive a special roster exemption due to the late signing of defensive lineman Aaron Donald on Friday, so they will temporarily be allowed to carry 54 players, rather than the 53 required of other NFL teams. Donald will not count against the roster until after week two. Here are my thoughts on the list at the various positions after the announcement of the final cuts. Quarterback Jared Goff Sean Mannion Brandon Allen Undrafted rookie Luis Perez would have been a great story, but it was pretty clear from his lack of playing time in the preseason that he was never a serious contender to make the regular roster. Sean Mannion goes into the season as the simple backup to starter Jared Goff, but after an underwhelming preseason, you have to wonder whether that its etched in stone. Granted, Mannion played extensively with reserves, as he did show flashes of some solid play. Mannion also knows the offense. Having said all of that, he didn't do much to inspire confidence in his ability to lead the team if (heaven forbid) Jared Goff suffers a severe injury. The fact that the Rams also chose to keep former University of Arkansas quarterback Brandon Allen speaks to the fact that, public statements aside, it's hard to believe Sean McVay is all THAT confident in Mannion as the backup. Allen didn't precisely set the world on fire in the preseason either, but he outperformed Mannion. The big knock on Allen is his overall lack of size and his small hands in particular. On the upside, he is probably a little more athletic than Mannion. I wouldn't be at all shocked to see changes made by the Rams here at some point. The quarterback you likely heard them linked to Robert Griffin III--ended up on surviving Baltimore Ravens final roster, meaning it would take a trade of some kind to pry him loose from the Ravens (at least for now). Other possibilities are veterans Landry Jones (released by the Pittsburgh Steelers) and Tom Savage (cut by New Orleans Saints on Saturday). Out of that group, RGIII is undoubtedly the most desirable option, but precisely what the Ravens would want in return and whether the Rams would be willing to ante up are very much in question. I would take Jones over either Mannion or Savage, but what Sean McVay and Les Snead think on the subject, I have no idea. Running Backs Todd Gurley Malcolm Brown John Kelly Justin Davis If there is anyone on the Rams roster who impressed people with his preseason play, it would be running back John Kelly, the rookie out of the University of Tennessee. Kelly, who lasted until the sixth-round due to injury concerns and a perceived lack of speed (as well as a college pot bust), looked every bit the part of an NFL starter during the 2018 preseason. He's a tough between the tackles runner who also showed the ability to catch the ball and a willingness to block. While Todd Gurley gets the vast majority of the touches during the regular season (assuming he's healthy), Kelly could see the field as a third down/change of pace back on a fairly regular basis. Malcolm Brown also made the squad again, and while the former University of Texas star doesn't scare anyone, he seems to do the job when he gets the opportunity. He's a bit of a plodder, but he holds onto the ball and isn't afraid to stick his nose in there and get the tough yards. Perhaps the only surprise in this group is that former USC star Justin Davis made the roster despite missing extensive time with a hamstring injury in the preseason. Davis offers the speed to bounce outside for some significant gains, but the big question with him is always whether he can hang onto the ball. Offensive Line Andrew Whitworth Rodger Saffold John Sullivan Rob Havenstein Joseph Noteboom Brian Allen Jamil Demby Austin Blythe Guard Jamon Brown, a starter last year, begins the season on a two-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. All three rookie O-lineman selected by the Rams in the NFL draft- Joseph Noteboom, Brian Allen, and Jamil Demby--made the roster, and Noteboom, in particular, earned some good reviews in training camp. Right tackle Rob Havenstein recently rewarded with a hefty new contract, so the Rams are pleased with his services for four more years. Also returning from last season is center John Sullivan, who solidified what had been a problem area for the Rams. Left tackle Andrew Whitworth was named to the All-Pro team last year and was a big part of the team's offensive turnaround. He's 36 years old, but so far shows no sign of aging. Let's hope that continues, because this was one of the league's better units last season, protecting Goff and opening holes for Todd Gurley, and they need to be again for this team to contend for the Super Bowl. As long as everyone remains healthy, they should be fine, but depth could be a concern. Receivers Brandin Cooks Robert Woods Cooper Kupp Josh Reynolds Pharoh Cooper Mike Thomas This unit has gone from being a significant weakness to significant strength in just two seasons, and barring injury it's one of the league's better units. The fact that wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge, who had a stellar preseason, didn't make the final roster, speaks volumes. His 47-yard reception against the Raiders was highlight-reel material, and he has an excellent chance to land somewhere in 2018. Brandin Cooks, Robert Woods, and Cooper Kupp figure to see the field on a regular basis in 2018, and that's a good thing. Cooks is a burner brought in to replace Sammy Watkins, a player who can stretch the field and take the top off the defense. Why the Saints and the New England Patriots let this kid get away is a mystery to me. Robert Woods opened some eyes last year, as the former USC star emerged as Jared Goff's favorite target. Cooper Kupp was arguably the best rookie receiver in the NFL last season. While he had a couple of high-profile drops--notably on the final play of the game against the Seattle Seahawks, muffing a potential game-winning catch at the goal line--nothing seemed to faze him, and if he isn't the best number three receiver in the NFL, he's not far down on the list. A lot of people believe Josh Reynolds could emerge in 2018, mainly as a red-zone threat. UPDATE:The Rams have added KhaDarel Hodge and former USC star Steven Mitchell Jr. to the practice squad. Tight End Tyler Higbee Gerald Everett Johnny Mundt The Rams opted to go with three tight ends. Gerald Everett and Tyler Higbee under-performed in the opinion of many observers last season, given how much Sean McVay used his tight ends with the Washington Redskins, but the talent is indeed there to do better. Defensive Line Aaron Donald (exempt) Ndamukong Suh Michael Brockers Tanzel Smart Ethan Westbrooks John Franklin-Myers Sebastian Joseph-Day Not a lot of comment is needed here, this is probably the most robust three-person unit in the NFL, with Aaron Donald, Ndamukong Suh, and the sometimes-underrated Micheal Brockers. Ethan Westbrooks is no slouch either. The only real concern here is injuries because when these guys are healthy, they can dominate. Quarterbacks beware. Aside from the fact, the current Rams play a 3-4 base defense; these guys could bring back memories of the Fearsome Foursome. They are just that good. Inside Linebacker Cory Littleton Mark Barron Micah Kiser Ramik Wilson Bryce Hager I would say first of all that I expect all of these players to see the field this season, with Littleton and Barron likely as the starters at the onset of the season. A lot of people were surprised to see the Rams trade Alec Ogletree to the New York Giants, but Littleton's emergence in a limited role last season may have a lot to do with that. Ogletree was also less than stellar against the run, and the Rams are trying to improve on last season's 29th ranking in defense against the run. Ramik Wilson, a former starter with Kansas City Chiefs, could well find himself starting for the Rams before the season is out. Micah Kiser, the rookie out of University of Virginia, was a tackling machine in college and could help shore up the Ram's rush defense. Hager is a heady veteran who knows the Wade Phillips system now and played reasonably well when given a chance in 2017. None of these guys will jump out at you as being a superstar, but as a group they are stable Outside Linebacker Samson Ebukam Matt Longacre Justin Lawler Trevon Young Dominique Easley OK, there could be some questions about this group, and how answered could be critical to the success of the 2018 Los Angeles Rams. Last year's starters, Connor Barwin and Robert Quinn, are gone. Obo Okoronkwo, the rookie out of the University of Oklahoma, has been slow to recover from a foot injury and will start the season on injured reserve. Samson Ebukam and Matt Longacre start the season as the projected starters, and I don't consider that as a bad thing. Ebukam is a freakishly gifted player, and I expect him to do well. Longacre had 5.5 sacks last season in a part-time role and is a solid to above average player in my opinion. Also in the mix is Dominique Easley, a former first-round pick of the Patriots who before this season mostly played defensive tackle. Justin Lawler and Trevon Young are rookies, and I guess that they will see limited action, barring injuries. How well Easley can transition to the linebacker position could be a critical question for the overall success of this unit. Indeed, there are questions here, but there is also a lot of ability, and Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips has a way of getting the most out of these type of players. Cornerback Marcus Peters Aqib Talib Nickell Robey-Coleman Troy Hill Sam Shields Another elite-level unit for the Rams, barring injury. Peters is a young star who ran afoul of Andy Reid in Kansas City. While he has a reputation for being a bit of a hothead--he left the game in a late-season game for the Chiefs without having been ejected--there is no doubt about his physical gifts. Aquib Talib age of 32, shows no signs of slowing down. He also has the advantage of having played for Wade Phillips as a Denver Broncos, so he knows the system. Backups Sam Shields and Nickell Robey- Coleman could start for many NFL teams, and Shields is a former starter for the Green Bay Packers. He has the speed to match up with just about any receiver, while Robey-Coleman was outstanding for the Rams last season. If there is a surprise here, it's Troy Hill, who has been an up and down performer for the Rams since the Jeff Fisher days. He did have a good 2018 preseason, however. Its an excellent and in-depth group, and when you combine them with the likes of Aaron Donald and Ndamukong Suh, this defense is going offer some long-hard days for quarterbacks, especially when the Rams are playing with a lead. Safeties Lamarcus Joyner John Johnson Blake Countess Marqui Christian Isaiah Johnson Lamarcus Joyner is one of the league's best, a converted cornerback who has thrived at his new position. John Johnson III, a second-year player out of Boston College, played exceptionally well last year once he thrust into the starting lineup. The Rams should be fine here as long as no one gets hurt, but depth could be a question. Blake Countess, like Joyner, is a converted cornerback, so you would think he would be an asset in coverage. While this group may not be as broad or talented as the Rams corners, they indeed are not a problem area either, barring injuries. Summary Rams have a very deep and talented roster, comparable to that of any NFL team, including Philadelphia Eagles or New England. The 60 million dollar question, of course, is always injuries. A serious injury to either Gurley or Whitworth would be terrible news, but the biggest concern is keeping Jared Goff healthy. But even if Goff goes down, this team has the talent at running back and on defense to morph into an old-fashioned smash-mouth football team and still win games. And who knows, with Sean McVay's offensive brilliance, it's also possible that even with a backup at the helm at quarterback this team wouldn't miss a beat. An outstanding roster and anything less than a division title and a deep run into the postseason would be a disappointment. Prediction 12-4, NFC West Title. Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams The Los Angeles Rams completed their 53-man roster yesterday, and today they have submitted their practice squad. To the surprise of many, the front office elected not to obtain any players from the waiver wire. Rams add the following players to their 10-man practice squad: WR KhaDarel Hodge WR Steven Mitchell DB Dominique Hatfield QB Luis Perez DB Steven Parker DB Ramon Richards TE Henry Krieger-Coble OG Jeremiah Kolone TE Temarrick Hemingway Further review of the Rams practice squad, it was determined that only nine of the ten practice squad players are listed. It's undetermined whether the Rams are looking at a player to sign from waivers or they'll add another player who cut from the 90-man roster. Perhaps the Rams have contemplation of adding linebacker Tegray Scales or edge-rusher Ejuan Price, for myself, I'm just surprised that neither of the two was resigned. Food for thought, potentially the front office may be exploring the options of adding another offensive lineman. The Rams opted to maintain only eight offensive linemen, and of the eight three are rookies. The Rams selected form the 2018 NFL Draft were OT Joseph Noteboom, C Brian Allen, and OL Jamil Demby. Noteboom arguably is the more seasoned of the three and had an excellent preseason by not allowing any quarterback sacks or pressure. (We'll keep updated as soon as the information becomes available.) Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams The Los Angeles Rams opted from claiming any players from waivers per sources. However, the Cleveland Browns claimed center Aaron Neary from their waiver list.
Rams will announce their 10-man practice squad later. Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams Devon Cajuste, the former Stanford Cardinal tight end went undrafted from the 2016 NFL Draft. The San Francisco 49ers signed him as an undrafted free agent and was released and picked up by the Green Bay Packers. In 2018, the Cleveland Browns picked up Cajuste as he became one of the focal players on the Hard Knocks training camp show.
Cajuste fits well in the Rams offense because his size at 6-foot-4 and 235 pounds put in between and flex tight end or big receiver. His 4.62 speed makes him a mismatch for most linebackers in the game. The converted wide-receiver has excellent hands and physically active. Cajuste had a tremendous preseason with the Browns, but many were surprised that he didn't make the 53-man roster. Cajuste can be the Temarick Hemingway that didn't work out to the Sean McVay's desire. The Los Angeles Rams should take a chance on claiming him from the Brown's waiver and sign him their practice squad. Ed "Pi Double i" HendersonWorldWide Rams In our projected 53-man roster, WorldWide Rams listed a projected practice squad roster too. The following players were as followed: QB Luis Perez RB Larry Rose III WR KhaDarel Hodge TE Henry Krieger-Coble C Jake Eldrenkamp DT Chunky Clements LB Tegray Scales DB Dominique Hatfield S ***Nate Holley, ***Steven Parker,*** Afolabi Laguda *** (denotes if Isaiah Johnson made 53-man Roster) The Ram's former tight end Temarrick Hemingway and EDGE Ejuan Price are players that were surprise cuts from the Rams roster. Hemingway was in his third season after being drafted from South Carolina St. in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Ejuan Price, on the other hand, was drafted in the seventh round of the 2017 NFL Draft from the University of Pittsburgh. Price made the Rams initial 53-man roster. However, every game day he became one of the eight inactive roster players. In my opinion, I felt that he played well in this preseason to survive the initial cut. However, it appeared that he didn't get enough done to outshine the Rams rookie draft selections. In the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, the Rams selected John Franklin-Meyers defensive end out of Stephen F. Austin in the sixth round, Trevon Young defensive end from Louisville, and in the seventh round defensive end Justin Lawler from SMU. Young was inactive his first three preseason games because he was nursing an injured ankle. However, he did enough to impress Rams defensive coordinator Wade Phillips in the Rams final preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. WorldWide Rams have provided you with our projected practice squad roster as the 53-man roster is set: QB Luis Perez RB Larry Rose III C Jake Eldrenkamp DB Dominique Hatfield DB Steven Parker TE Henry Krieger-Coble WR KhaDarel Hodge EDGE Ejuan Price OL Aaron Neary OL Antonio Garcia (Claimed off Waivers from New York Jets) Quarterback Luis Perez is a bright and talented kid that has a big arm. He never was afforded the opportunity to demonstrate his ability. He played approximately 26 minutes against the Saints where his numbers were fair. Playing collegiately at Texas A&M Commerce, not much exposure Perez was able to lead his team to National Championship. Rams adding Perez to practice squad is to develop him as a quality backup in the league potentially. Running back Larry Rose III, signed days before the Rams game against the Saints. He had one costly fumble while trying to fight for yardage. He was able to get several yards on his carries, but he did have a 22-yard run while the Rams were on their two-yard line. As with Perez, his opportunities were limited and now has resigned to develop. Dominique Hatfield, a cornerback that has spent time on the Rams active roster last season. Played at the University of Utah, he busts on the scene after trying out for the team and miraculously made the final 53-man roster as a rookie undrafted free agent. He played in 11 games before being waived shortly after injuring his hip. The Rams acquired Marcus Peters and Aqib Talib via trades and resigning Nickell Robey-Coleman, his window of opportunity diminished. There was an additional competition that Hatfield had to compete with third-year cornerback Troy Hill and free agent veteran cornerback Sam Shields. Shields removed himself from the game due to the reoccurrence of concussions; however he seemed to put those behind him to make the team. Steven Parker, a rookie safety from the University of Oklahoma, went undrafted in 2018 NFL Draft. Parker started off strong in camp and showed tremendous skills when giving time this preseason. He was able to make a fantastic interception against the Saints as he extended out in the air to create a tremendous turnover. In college, he had the knack of creating turnovers with his punishing hits and ability to strip the ball from the runners. Expect Parker at some point of the season to be promoted to the active roster. Receiver KhaDarel Hodge, in my opinion, was snubbed from making the 53-man roster as the Rams were optimistic that he would clear waivers. Hodge was the most productive receiver during the preseason making tremendous catches one after the other. Receiver Mike Thomas is the one person that stood in the way of the Prairie View A&M product. Hodge impressed not only the coaching staff but also became a fan favorite. If there's any slacking of Thomas or even Pharoh Cooper, Hodge will get promoted to active roster without any hesitation. Henry Krieger Coble, the tight end in the second season from the University of Iowa, seemed to turn it on late in the pre-season. Rams decided to carry only three tight ends; they cut Krieger-Coble as well as Hemingway. He's solid pass-catching tight end who can also provide some downhill blocking. Expect to see him promoted during the season. Edge-rusher Ejuan Price a player who made the Rams 2017 53-man final roster, was a surprise to see released. Price, in my opinion, played well in the preseason, but the organization seemed much fit with the rookies they drafted. Price will be a player that will be promoted soon this season. Aaron Neary was signed by the Rams in 2017 and shuffled back and forth to the practice squad. Neary's, center is his natural position, but can also play at guard and some tackle. He will return to the practice squad and continue to develop under offensive line coach Aaron Kromer. The waiver list, the Rams are listed at #23 to claim a player off waivers. At the bottom tier, they were fortunate to claim offensive lineman Antonio Garcia. The Rams invited Garcia to the facility for a workout and were on their board to select if he was still available. Drafted in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, New England Patriots selected Garcia with #85th overall pick. Earlier this year the Patriots released Garcia and revealed his termination was due to he developed blood clots in his lungs and couldn't practice resulting in him losing over 40-pounds. The New York Jets claimed Garcia off waivers this past spring; however, he didn't survive the final cuts. Garcia rated as high as a first-round selection; however, he fell to the third round. As a polished offensive tackle, he has excellent balance and technique. As a pass blocker, he keeps a broad and open base and extends his arm out preventing the defender to get inside his chest. As a run blocker or pass blocker his blocks such as an angry blocker. Jake Eldrenkamp was on the Rams previous practice squad list. Eldrenkamp played tackle at the University of Washington. Since playing at Washington, he's been converted to a center, as well as offensive guard too. Eldrenkamp can continue work on his technique and strength to develop better skills. The National Football League 32 teams needed to have their rosters finalized from 90-players to 53-man rosters by 1:00 PM PST. The Los Angeles Rams, the 2017 NFC West Divisional Champs, started their process a bit early on Friday morning with quickly releasing 12-players and placing two on injured reserved.
The Rams have finalized their 53-man roster by cutting the following players: Centers Jake Eldrenkamp Aaron Neary Defensive Ends Marcus Martin Defensive Tackles Omarius Bryant Chunky Clements Lord Hyeamang McKay Murphy Defensive Backs DB Dominique Hatfield DB Nate Holley DB Curtis Mikell DB Taurean Nixon DB Steven Parker DB Ramon Richards Guards Jeremiah Kolone Kickers Sam Ficken Linebackers Travin Howard Ejuan Price Brian Womac Tegray Scales Quarterbacks Luis Perez Tackles Cornelius Lucas Darrell Williams Running Backs Nick Holley Larry Rose Safeties Afolabi Laguda Tight Ends Temarrick Hemingway Henry Krieger-Coble Wide Receivers WR Fred Brown WR KhaDarel Hodge WR Codey McElroy WR Steven Mitchell WR JoJo Natson WR Kendal Thompson While trimming down their roster, in my opinion, the surprise cuts of all players was linebacker Ejuan Price. In 2017, Price made the initial 53-man roster. However, he could never crack the 45-man roster on game day and waived late December, and LB Carlos Thompson promoted. Wide-Receiver KhaDarel Hodge who seemed to win over not only the coaching staff but fans too, was a casualty to cuts as the Rams opt to keep three quarterbacks on their roster. Not to happy with this move as both backups play was unconvincing to many. I'm sure the Rams are making a calculated gamble and is optimistic that Hodge clear's waivers. If he clears, expect him to signed to their practice squad. In addition to roster moves, the Rams placed LB Ogbonnia Okoronkwo on Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list. The also put defensive ends Ryan Davis and Morgan Fox on the injured-reserved list. The Rams had 11 selections in the 2018 NFL Draft, and 10 of the 11 players made the 53-man roster, and linebacker Travin Howard was the only player cut. However, as it stands, Howard's cut is with an injury destination. Now that the Rams roster set, they now can focus on their first nationally televised game of the season at the Oakland Coliseum against the Oakland Raiders. A match that includes the teacher John Gruden meets student Sean McVay phase two. The Rams beat the Raiders in Week #2 of the preseason 19-15 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Raiders made a shocking move today by trading their All-Pro linebacker and the 2016 Defensive Player of the Year Khalil Mack. The Raiders traded Mack to the Chicago Bears for two first-round drafts selections of the 2019 NFL Draft and 2020 NFL Draft. Reportedly Mack and the Bears have agreed on a record-setting deal of six-years $141 million extensions, which includes $90M guaranteed plus a $60M signing bonus, earning $23.5M per year. This deal now makes Mack as the new highest-paid defensive player in NFL history. The agreement comes one day after Aaron Donald signed his massive contract with the Rams The Raiders defense perhaps will be set back for the next two seasons. In any event, McVay play-calling may be able to gamble and quarterback Jared Goff and running back Todd Gurley can sigh from the presence of Mack. On Sunday, September 2, 2018, at 10:00 AM PST, the Rams are eligible to begin adding 10 players to their practice squad roster. |
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