The Los Angeles Rams have begun their training camp and will open to fans on July 29th. There’s a couple of question marks, as well as new editions to look forward to watching. Let’s breakdown who fans should have an eye on these next couple of weeks.
WR Allen Robinson
When the Los Angeles Rams needed wide receiver they looked to the former Bears top receiver after a down season. Robinson, along with Cooper Kupp, should be a treat for Matthew Stafford. Robinson is a step up from anyone from last year. He should be a primary focus of camp; his adaptation to the offense, as well as his connection with Matthew Stafford, should both be closely monitored.
Dubbed by many as the “replacement” for Robert Woods, I think he brings a different kind of wide receiver to this offense, with more of a jump ball contested catch playstyle, rather than the possession style of Woods and Kupp. Don’t be surprised if Robinson looks like the Rams’ WR1 in some games, as he certainly has the potential to be one. If he remains the same player he was only a few seasons ago, he’ll have a huge year within the Rams’ offense.
LB Bobby Wagner
The other big addition for the Los Angeles Rams this offseason was Bobby Wagner. Wagner brings a veteran presence to a somewhat inexperienced linebacker corps. Ernest Jones is the biggest beneficiary of this addition. Learning from one of the best at the position for the last decade can’t be too bad. Wagner’s age isn’t exactly showing itself either, as he posted the highest tackle numbers in his career last season (170). Tackles aren’t the best statistic for evaluating linebackers but is shows that Wagner is still good health-wise, playing 95% of the snaps last year. Wagner can help a linebacker room that was the weak spot of the defense, and hopefully help the Rams run it back.
WR Tutu Atwell
Oh Tutu Atwell, the most criticized pick from last year’s draft should have an interesting camp. Last year it was speculated he would return punts for the team. Now his role is pretty unclear. The Los Angeles Rams signed Allen Robinson, re-signed Brandon Powell, and have the possibility of signing back Odell Beckham Jr. Atwell will have to earn his spot as things currently stand. It will be crucial to watch how he practices with the team and how he gets involved whether that be on special teams or in the offense.
Young DBs
After the Los Angeles Rams lost Darious Williams, Donte Deayon, and Kareem Orr in the secondary, they looked to the draft to fill the needs in the secondary. It was obvious that they didn’t have a solid cornerback opposite Ramsey last year. This is why they traded for Troy Hill. They then used half of their draft picks this year to add to the secondary.
I really like the moves they’ve made to improve the secondary, especially Quentin Lake. With a lot of youth in the secondary, including Jordan Fuller, Terrell Burgess, and Robert Rochell, who ends up in the starting lineup is probably the most interesting battle to watch. Ramsey, Fuller, and Hill are sure starters, but the rest of the lineup is likely going to be who impresses the most in camp.
Backup tight end
After the departure of Johnny Mundt to Minnesota, the backup tight end role is another position to watch for the Los Angeles Rams. Kendall Blanton is the obvious option, especially after his performance in the postseason. However, Brycen Hopkins and Jacob Harris can certainly challenge him for that role. Hopkins hasn’t really impressed during his limited action. However, he might be able to take over the role if presented the opportunity. The Rams barely use their tight ends in the passing game. Mundt was mostly used for blocking, but this is a position to watch nonetheless.
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