Joe DeCamillis outlines approach to Rams special teams

Approaching nearly three decades coaching special teams in the NFL, Joe DeCamillis knows what it takes to put together a successful group.

He's guided punters, kickers, coverage units and return units to statistically strong finishes at every stop. Most recently, in each of the last three years with the Jaguars (2018-20), his units placed seventh, fifth and 13th respectively in veteran NFL reporter Rick Gosselin's annual special teams rankings.

Now, he's bringing those core principles with him to Los Angeles as the Rams' new special teams coordinator.

Early in his introductory press conference, DeCamillis pointed to two foundational pieces to his success: His passion, and the quality of players.

"I would say the secret to success is, my father-in-law is Coach Reeves, Dan Reeves," DeCamillis said during a video conference Thursday. "So, that was a long time ago, but he told me to be myself. That was one of the biggest things that we talked about. So, I've tried to follow that as much as I can. Be as passionate every day as I can and just enjoy the job. That's really what it's all about."

Like the other phases in the game, DeCamillis said the more talented players you have, the greater chance of success.

In that regard, he feels confident in where the Rams stand at punter – four-time Pro Bowl selection Johnny Hekker enters his 10th NFL season in 2021 and has a career average of 46.9 yards per punt. DeCamillis also likes the trajectory of kicker Matt Gay, who made 14 of 16 field goal attempts and 16 of 16 extra point attempts in seven games with Los Angeles last season.

"It's to field as much as we can in coverage, which means just trying to put it in small areas, which we've got a great punter to do that," DeCamillis said. "The kicker, I think it's going to get better as we go. Then the return game, you want to spread the field, make it as wide as you can, get as many gaps as you can for your return team, and then get a great return. We've got to get a guy that can ring the bell and drop the ball over the goal line."

The Rams were notorious for trick plays under John Fassel, their special teams coordinator from 2012-19. Hekker didn't attempt a pass under Fassel's successor, John Bonamego, last season, but DeCamillis indicated he was open to it.

"I think it depends on what the head coach's plan is, what your team plan is," DeCamillis said. "You want to play complimentary football as much as possible. Sometimes, they come up. Sometimes they don't. In Jacksonville, we were very successful the last few years doing that and I know having the talent that John has, I hope we're able to continue the 'trickeration.'"

When it comes to special teams personnel, the Rams have a couple decisions to make regarding key positions DeCamillis will be overseeing.

As DeCamillis alluded to earlier, he said the return game is still being evaluated. Wide receiver Nsimba Webster primarily handled both duties for the Rams last year, averaging 21.7 yards per kickoff return and 7.4 yards per punt return.

"One of the things that you got to really evaluate as much as anything is the better the blocking schemes are, and the better holes you have to run through, the better the return is going to be," DeCamillis said. "Now, where you get special is when it's a guy that has (former kick returner/punt returner) Devin Hester type-ability. Those types of things, that's where you can really become special."

Additionally, long snapper Jake McQuaide, who has played in every game in his 10 years with the team, is a pending unrestricted free agent. The Rams currently have two long snappers signed to reserve/future contracts in Steven Wirtel and Colin Holba.

"You really have to get the right one," DeCamillis said. "On the other side of it though, Jake is a great long snapper in this league. Part of the reason that Hekker's been successful, part of the reason that (former Rams kicker Greg Zuerlein) was successful here, was because of him. So, a lot of respect and again, the finances, they'll just have to work those things out and hopefully he'll have a chance to come in here and compete because I think he's excellent."

2020 there was no preseason.Which even in Strike Years were fun to watch.
Just a junkie for watching players evolve.
This 2021 Rams team already has so much depth & Mcvay likes to sit his veterans & starters.Add that The NFL had extended players on LEAGUE Rosters.Which brings to my question.

What Ram Player(position) do Fans want to in the 2021 Preseason ?

I just want to say Tyler Higbee is wearing THE # 89 Jersey Proud!!!

I already miss football.

None of us really know. What do we have in Brycen Hopkins?

We are all guessing. But... the article below this post got me thinking on that.

I did (and do) not believe it’s good his snaps were so few in 2020. But, after watching a few of the videos at the bottom of this post I underestimated how green he was. Or maybe still is.

Can he get there?

He looks the part. Sounds like his head is good. Well spoken kid.

The TE position is notoriously SLOW to develop. Examples are littered all over the place. Tony Gonzales, Jason Witten, Travis Kelsey.... 700 combined yards as rookies.

Our own Tyler Higbee... 85 yards.

I am certainly not trying to compare Brycen, because hell, he had 0 yards... But being extra green, what really should I have expected out of this rookie? Answer; probably what we got.

So now... year two... what do we got?


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The meteoric rise of Rams DL Sebastian Joseph Day

The LA Rams have enjoyed the quiet eruption of defensive lineman Sebastian Joseph Day on the defensive line of scrimmage. But it’s been a subtle eruption, almost like a flower blossoming in early spring. A slowly developing emergence, steadfast in its daily reach towards the light each day. Constant swelling of ability and potential, so determined that it achieves new growth each day. And there it is, in plain sight.

Sometimes, we become so trained to see stark changes and sharp turns in the road that a steady rate of linear growth is almost invisible to the eye. Even I am guilty of missing the obvious because it’s right there developing in front of me in full display. I don’t think I’m the only one guilty of that either.

Looking for talented players to erupt is akin to training the eye to catch a distant sudden flash of brilliance on the team. A sudden burst of production from a young player is like a burst of light from a fourth of July fireworks display. And yet, SJD is right there, on the starting line, and seizing the opportunity to play in an ever dominating fashion to little to no fanfare.

I won’t be lulled into tranquility. SJD is a huge force on this LA Rams defense, and it’s time we acknowledged that. After all, he has settled in at the nose tackle position for the team, arguably one of the most difficult and physically demanding positions on defense.

In a 3-4, the nose tackle is the epicenter of the defense. Everything that the offense does is within the radius of the nose tackle. So it takes a particular dedicated, strong, and sharp player to excel in the role. And wouldn’t you know it, the 195th player chosen in the 2018 NFL Draft from the University of Rutgers exhibits all of that and more.

From practice squad to NFL star

The 6-foot-4 310-pound nose tackle spent his first year on the team’s practice squad. But with the departure of free-agent DL Ndamukong Suh, SJD was the player who slid into the rotation alongside Michael Brockers and Aaron Donald. He did well, well enough to earn a larger role in 2020.

After all, he needed just 481 defensive snaps in 2019 to put up 44 tackles, five tackles for losses, five quarterback hits, and two quarterback sacks. He earned a 2019 grade of 63.0 from Pro Football Focus, a sign of promising young talent.

The LA Rams added veteran NT A’Shawn Robinson in 2020, but due to health reasons, he was unable to take snaps until the second half of the season. But ‘Sea Bass’ (he does not like that nickname given him by veteran teammate Michael Brockers) was prepared. He bulked up, focused on playing the nose tackle position, and surprised many.

With 15 percent fewer snaps, SJD rolled up 55 tackles, one tackle for loss, four quarterback hits, and one quarterback sack. His Pro Football Focus skyrocketed in 2020 to a grade of 80.6. In just three years from the sixth-round of the 2108 NFL Draft, Sebastian Joseph Day is a rising NFL star.

Tackler, food critic, social leader, and 2021 romantic

If you only see football players as, well, football players, you are missing the best parts of life and of the NFL. In 2020, Sebastian Joseph Day was a leader in all respects. Amidst the pandemic crisis that forced self-quarantine and a tremendous burden upon health care workers, Joseph Day donated from his own pockets to feed front-line, medical workers.

When social injustice gripped the nation in 2020, once more it was Sebastian Joseph Day who led by example. He engaged in meaningful dialogues, conversations, and debates to represent all sides fully, and to reach lasting holistic solutions.

It was not all heavy topics in 2020, mind you. Late in 2020, word got out that SJD was converting his passion for food, culture, and history into a YouTube channel called Dine-N-Bash. You need to check it out because he covers a wide swath of culinary establishments and eateries at a time when finding new dining spots is awfully tough to do. SJD does the heavy lifting for you.

And finally, there was the announcement of the engagement of Sebastian Joseph Day and Rachel Lucosky.

AYE!! IM MARRYING MY BEST FRIEND! AIN’T NO BETTER FEELING DAWG! IM TELLING YA!

— Sebastian Joseph-Day (@SJD_51) February 10, 2021

Too much in one year? Doubtful. A flourishing football career, a new business venture, and a blossoming romance. Everything is coming up roses for Sebastian Joseph Day in 2021. It’s been a subtle eruption, almost like a flower blossoming in early spring. A slowly developing emergence, steadfast in its daily reach towards the light each day. Constant swelling of ability and potential, so determined that it achieves new growth each day. And there it is, in plain sight.

Congratulations Sebastian and Rachel. Here’s hoping 2021 is your best year yet. Perhaps, with a little luck and perseverance, Sea Bass can add one more ring to the jewelry collection this year. An engagement ring, a wedding ring, and a Super Bowl Championship ring.

PFF shares incredible stat about Rams CB Darious Williams

Before the 2020 season started, it wasn’t abundantly clear who the starters in the Rams’ secondary would be. Darious Williams was a promising young player, but he wasn’t a lock to start at cornerback alongside Jalen Ramsey.

But based on what he showed at the end of 2019 and in training camp, the Rams were convinced he could play. And boy, were they right.

Williams had a phenomenal 2020 season, allowing just 39 receptions in 72 targets with four interceptions and two touchdowns given up. He allowed only 480 yards in 16 games, an average of 30 per week.

According to Pro Football Focus, Williams hasn’t allowed more than 70 yards receiving in a single game since he came into the NFL in 2018. That’s an incredible stat, even if he didn’t become a full-time starter until this past season.

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Williams will be a restricted free agent in March and while he’s unlikely to leave, the Rams will need to make sure he doesn’t by using either the first- or second-round tender. At least then, if a team signs him to an offer sheet and they don’t match it, they will recoup a first- or second-round pick in return.

With Troy Hill also being a free agent, the Rams have to do whatever they can to retain No. 31 in the secondary.

Raheem Morris lays out vision for Rams defense

Raheem Morris has a pretty good idea of what he's inheriting at his new job, especially when it comes to personnel.

In defensive lineman Aaron Donald and cornerback Jalen Ramsey, he has two players who are not only multi-All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections, but in his words on the Rams Revealed podcast, also "potential gold jacket guys" – meaning potential future hall-of-famers.

"You don't mess them up," Morris said during a video conference Thursday, when asked how he intends to use the duo. "Let's let these guys get going."

It's a wise approach to take, as the two will be the cornerstones of a defense that won't be undergoing wholesale changes with Morris overseeing it.

Morris began his coaching career gaining extensive experience in the Tampa-2 defense, a system traditionally employed in a 4-3 (four down linemen, three linebackers) alignment that creates a three-deep look in Cover 2 with the middle linebacker dropping back to cover the middle of the field.

However, Morris is aware of the way defensives are evolving, particularly when it comes to the trends involving the usage of sub-packages. The Rams are going to "look like a 3-4 base team," as in, a three down linemen, four linebackers alignment, but won't strictly be that for their base scheme.

"When you go into your sub-packages, which the league has kind of developed into, you see a lot more four-down fronts," Morris said. "Whether you're talking about odd or even fronts, whether you're talking about bringing different people in to do some different things, you're going to do all those things, you're going to have all those different types of packages. Obviously, you'll talk about who you are and what you are. We're going to look like a three-four base team, something that we tried to look like in Atlanta."

This aligns with Rams general manager Les Snead's end-of-season comments about head coach Sean McVay wanting to "keep the DNA" of Brandon Staley's Vic Fangio-influenced defensive scheme, with Morris adding his own twist. It was a similar approach taken by Staley after he took over for Wade Phillips, who deployed a base 3-4 scheme during his three seasons with the Rams. Staley kept the 3-4, but also deployed a variety of alignments and fronts.

Like his predecessor, Morris will also look to find ways to capitalize on Ramsey and Donald's versatile skillsets.

"Jalen is a great player," Morris said. "He's probably rare. He's unique. He can be a shutdown corner. You can move him inside. He can play at the nickel position. He's smart. You see his toughness oozing all over the tape. You see his competitive nature just all over the tape. You see the exciting plays. You see what he can be and his best version of himself at all times when he's out there in the field."

As for Donald, the goal remains to find ways to scheme on-on-one matchups for him. Among interior defenders with at least 150 rushes against two or more blockers, Donald led the league with 319 per PFF and still posted the highest win rate at 18.2 percent. However, Morris also recognizes the value of that attention commanded by Donald.

"You want to get him aligned up and find the ways to get him one-on-ones, but at the same time, he's done such a great job of getting his teammates one-on-one and setting up the guys around him that you don't want to take away that part of his strength either," Morris said.

Beyond Donald and Ramsey, the rest of the group could look different with safety John Johnson III, outside linebacker Leonard Floyd and cornerback Troy Hill all pending unrestricted free agents. Morris said he's going to give his opinion, but understands those decisions are ultimately Snead and McVay's to make, whether it be for financial or other reasons.

Morris knows those players and others contributed to a No. 1-ranked defense, but the final piece to the vision of his defense involves much loftier goals.

"I wasn't brought here to try to duplicate what they did last year," Morris said. "We were brought here to win and we're brought here to win a championship."

I am still working to come to terms with the trade. But I don't think I'll quit rooting for the Rams. I will however root for the Lions if they keep Goff. I did the same with Warner after the Rams let him go. This mock assumes the salary cap will be set around $185 million, give or take $5 million. I am hopeful the NFL will just freeze the cap instead of dropping it and spread losses into future years, but that might be too rational for the league to do. There are reports that some veterans are interested in ring chasing with the Rams and Stafford. I took that into account in this mock. I am assuming we traded our earliest third (pick #24) for Stafford. I might be wrong about that. The details have not been announced yet on that front.
Departing Free Agents
OLB Leonard Floyd
SS John Johnson III
CB Troy Hill
OL Austin Blythe
HB Malcolm Brown
TE Gerald Everett
WR Josh Reynolds
DL Morgan Fox
OLB Samson Ebukam

Cut
ILB Kenny Young

Restructure
DL Aaron Donald

Extension
QB Matt Stafford

Resignings
LS Jake McQuaide
CB Darious Williams (Second Round Tender)
ILB Travin Howard
OL Coleman Shelton
TE Johnny Mundt

Trades
Rams trade WR Cooper Kupp
Dolphins trade Round 2 Pick #4

The Dolphins want to help Tua out. They plan to draft Penei Sewell at #3, so they make a move for a top WR to play with DeVante Parker. I'm one of Cooper's biggest fans, but with Goff gone to Detroit and Van Jefferson waiting in the wings, it could make sense to trade him. He was Goff's security blanket, and Goff is no longer here.

Rams trade OT Joe Noteboom
Bears trade Round 5 Pick #20

There is some speculation that the Bears could cut one or both of their starting OTs. If they make a trade for a QB as expected, cap will be tight. Getting Noteboom to start at LT or RT on an affordable salary is something the Bears could use with their present cap situation.

Rams trade Round 2 Pick #4
Jaguars trade Round 2 Pick #13 and Round 4 Pick #1

The Jaguars trade up for CB Tyson Campbell.

Rams trade Round 2 Pick #25
Vikings trade Round 3 Pick #14 and Round 3 Pick #26

Vikings trade up for an OL.

Rams trade Round 3 Pick #14 and Round 3 Pick #39
Jaguars trade Round 3 Pick #1 and Round 4 Pick #25

We make another trade with the Jaguars. This time, we trade up.

Free Agency
Marvin Jones WR

Jones reportedly wants to follow Stafford to LA. He played at Cal and might be willing to sign a short-term, team-friendly deal to be on a winner.

Alex Mack C

Mack has mentioned playing for the 49ers, but I could see him chasing a ring with us. He played at Cal and is from Santa Barbara, CA. He's no longer elite, but he's still smart and effective.

Preston Smith OLB

We'll have to be creative with the cap to sign Smith, but I think he makes perfect sense as the Leonard Floyd replacement. He's coming off a down year, will likely be cut by the Packers, and should be amenable to one year "prove it" deal to earn his final big contract.

NFL Draft
Round 2 Pick #13 - D'Wayne Eskridge WR Western Michigan
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Analysis: I wouldn't be surprised if Eskridge finds his way into the starting lineup sooner than later. He's a dangerous returnman who has game-breaking speed (4.3 40), sure hands, and runs crisp routes. He's a twitchy athlete who reminds me a lot of Brandin Cooks coming out of Oregon State.

Round 3 Pick #1 - Quinn Meinerz OL Wisconsin-Whitewater
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Analysis: I expect Meinerz to be our Center of the future. He dominated at the Senior Bowl, possesses great power, has one heck of a mean streak, and moves well for a big guy. He'll develop for a year behind Alex Mack and be ready to start in 2022.

Round 3 Pick #26 - Aaron Robinson CB Central Florida
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Analysis: Robinson is a sticky cover CB who should fit well in our scheme. He is a physical player who can play in the slot and outside. His lack of height and length (5'11" 190 with shortish arms) will be mitigated by our zone-heavy scheme. Could push David Long Jr. and Terrell Burgess for the nickel CB job as a rookie.

Round 3 Pick #37 - Jaylon Moore OL Western Michigan
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Analysis: I think Moore could be the LT of the future. He just barely meets the length thresholds (6'4" 310 with 33.5" inch arms). But he has stellar feet, balance, and mirroring ability. He has some technical flaws to solve, but after a year, he should be ready to start at OT or OG (can play four OL positions).

Round 4 Pick #1 - Tommy Tremble TE/FB Notre Dame
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Analysis: Tremble is a physical, punishing blocker who has a lot of upside in the passing game. He's raw as a pass catcher, but he's very athletic. As a blocker, he can lead the way as a FB or blow guys off the ball lining up inline. I love his physicality.

Round 4 Pick #25 - Jaret Patterson HB Buffalo
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Analysis: Patterson and Rhamondre Stevenson are my two favorite Day 2/3 HBs. Patterson reminds me of Devonta Freeman. Small HB (5'8" 195) with elite feet and contact balance. Physical pass protector who has the tools to be a major threat in the passing game. Very creative runner with great vision.

Round 4 Pick #37 - Isaiah McDuffie LB Boston College
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Analysis: McDuffie is an experienced and productive LB for Boston College. Undersized at 6'1" 225 pounds, he's a fast, instinctive player who makes plays all over the field. But what really impressed me was how good he was at fighting off blockers at his size. Think he could develop into a good LB for us.

Round 5 Pick #20 - Jonathan Adams Jr. WR Arkansas State
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Analysis: Intriguing developmental WR talent here in Adams. Props to @8to12 for bringing him up. He's listed at 6'3" 220 and plays to it. Bully while the ball is in the air and dominated in contested catch situations in college. Has the athleticism to create separation, but his route running needs a lot of work.

Round 6 Pick #25 - Chris Rumph II LB Duke
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Analysis: Rumph has fallen down the board in my mocks because I am recognizing he's the type of guy I love who always falls. He's a great football player with savvy and instincts, but he's doesn't meet the NFL thresholds in a physical trait for his position (size; he's only 6'3" 235 and plays on the edge). Might need to slide inside.

Round 7 Pick #25 - Grant Stuard LB/S Houston
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Analysis: Stuard is undersized for a LB at 5'11" 230 with short arms, but I love him as a special teamer. He's fast, twitchy, and hits very hard. He tackles well in space too. He's a guy who will bring speed, relentlessness, and hitting to our coverage units. That'll give him time to develop as a LB (as a recent safety convert).

Projected Starters
QB: Matt Stafford
HB: Cam Akers
WR: Robert Woods
WR: Marvin Jones
WR: Van Jefferson
TE: Tyler Higbee
LT: Andrew Whitworth
LG: David Edwards
C: Alex Mack
RG: Austin Corbett
RT: Rob Havenstein

DE: Michael Brockers
NT: Sebastian Joseph-Day
DE: Aaron Donald
OLB: Terrell Lewis
ILB: Travin Howard
ILB: Micah Kiser
OLB: Preston Smith
CB: Jalen Ramsey
CB: Darious Williams
CB: David Long Jr.
FS: Jordan Fuller
SS: Terrell Burgess

K: Matt Gay
P: Johnny Hekker
LS: Jake McQuaide
KR: D'Wayne Eskridge
PR: D'Wayne Eskridge

I have a question regarding my system in FLA. It was installed in 2018, air handler inside, condenser outside. In Nov 2019 it was low on refrigerant, and after injecting dye in the system, a leak was found in the evap coil. Replaced that, charged the system with r410a, and everything was fine for a year.

which brings me to now. My siding sales rep used the condo this week and on Tuesday he told me AC wasnt working. Called the company and they told me this was no refrigerant (r401a) in the system, and after testing for leaks they found none.


My questions is, can the refrigerant be siphoned out from outside the unit and resold? If so, is there anyway to prevent this( some type of lock etc)

We've all heard of a Super Bowl hangover for the runner-up, but any playoff loss can have a lasting impact if it reveals weaknesses that might impact the team's confidence going forward.

I wonder if that is what we did to the Seahawks.

They entered the playoffs with a lot of confidence, having won four straight and six of their last seven games. They had the home field, and were facing a Rams team they had recently beaten, playing with a backup QB (or, as fate dictated, an injured starter).

But it didn't go as planned. The Rams dominated the game, and ended the Seahawks' season.

That's bad enough, but it was the way we beat them that seems to have had lasting effects. Their offense was completely ineffective, as we harassed Russell Wilson (5 sacks, 10 QB hits) into one of the worst performances of his career.

The backlash came quickly. Brian Shottenheimer was fired as OC (ironically replaced by a Rams assistant). D.K. Metcalf publicly declared that teams had figured out their offense. And, now, we hear Russell Wilson publicly complaining about the support he's received, potentially prompting trade talks.

Their defense may also have lost some confidence. The Rams were able to control the game, rushing for 164 yards and controlling the clock for over 33 minutes. Jared Goff, was able to be efficient and productive, despite being less than two weeks removed from thumb surgery. This outcome from a defense that was bolstered by a safety, Jamal Adams, who cost the Seahawks two first and a third round pick in the 2021-22 drafts.

Add to that the fact that the Seahawks have 8 starters set to be UFAs (Chris Carson, Mike Iupati, Ethan Pocic, Cedric Ogbuehi, Poona Ford, Bruce Irvin, Shaquill Griffin, Quinton Dunbar), and this could be a a tough offseason for the Seahawks.

What a difference a month makes. The Hawks are reeling, and we're starting to look like the team to beat in the West!

This is interesting stuff. I wonder where we will be with this in another 50 years.

What must it be like to be a Texans fan right now?
----------------------------
Mod update March 1st
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The other thread that examined the treatment of Goff vs Gurley at the end and how differently they were treated by fans. Now that conversation doesn't matter in this thread because both are gone now. I am including coaches, front office and players CURRENTLY on the Rams. You could name any player/person in the comments if I don't include your guy in the Poll.

My pick is Aaron Donald. He edges Sean McVay with me as the most important member. Aaron is on the Mt Rushmore of All Time Great Rams for me. Like Merlin Olsen before him, I want this guy to remain a Ram his whole career. HC's, GM's and players come and go, but players like AD come once in a lifetime. I'm a history guy, hence my degrees in college, so that's why I'm not a transaction oriented guy. I'm not a wannabe GM or fantasy football player. I love the "laundry" and the history that fills out that laundry and Aaron Donald personifies that for me.

https://www.clickondetroit.com/spor...gq8N6a0YF0ubNL5SC4lYe_kxGCpwOtiIwhNxr8KfY4#//

Not Rams related but a good uplifting story.

Preface: Dealing with the realitiy of losing many Free agents. in this edition I will focus on 2 things: 1) making the interior of the O-line more stout in pass-Pro & 2) adding a penetrator to the D-line. The Rams will need to continue to be able to bring pressure up the middle regardless how many quality Edge rushers they have. At this point of his career, Brockers does not provide the kind of penetration needed. I will address the loss of the many FA’s. IMO, with restructuring and a couple of trades, the Rams should end up with about 20 – 22 Mil in Cap space to sign one or two of their own and couple of low priced Outside FA’s. I will plan on the Cap being settled at 185 million for this Mock.

Cut:

Pre-June 1 - Brian Allen, Kenny Young, Nasimba Webster, Justin Lawler, Kendal Blanton, Donte Deayon, Colin Holba, Brandon Wright

Restructure: Aaron Donald
Jalen Ramsey

Restructure savings – 23 Mil

Departng FA’s:
John Johnson III
Josh Reynolds
Malcom Brown
Austin Blythe
Gerald Everett
Troy Hill
Johnny Mundt
Jake McQuaid

Resign:
Morgan Fox
Samson Ebukam (needed for Edge depth and core special teamer)
Darius Williams – 2nd Rnd tender
Travin Howard
Leonard Floyd ( 3 yrs – 36-Mil ; 21-mil Guar )
-Large bonus upfront should make his Cap hit under 9-mil without leaving the team susceptible to high amount of dead money if they decide to part ways after the second year


Outside FA’s:

Center – Austin Reiter (Chiefs)


Reiter has anchored the Chiefs OL for the last 2 seasons helping reach the Superbowl in both. He is close in size to Blythe and similar in Grade. However, Reiter excels in Pass blocking compared to Blythe. In 2020, Reiter gave up 0 sacks, 7 pressures and NO penalties. He should move well enough to block on the run in the Rams ZBS. His salary was in the 3-4 Mil range.

WR - Marvin Hall Jr (Lions - Browns)

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Hall was a deep ball receiver for Stafford until he was released and picked up by Cleveland. He has the experience, speed, and existing relationship with Stafford to be the Rams deep ball threat at very affordable price. He has been earning the league minimum.



ILB – Nicholas Morrow (Raiders)
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Marrow will provide an upgrade in terms of speed at the ILB position. He is great in coverage and may be the most undervalued LB in the league. He will basically take Kenny Young’s spot. Rams should be balanced with 2 early down LB’s in Reeder and Kiser, and (2) coverage LB’s in Morrow & Howard. I don’t see the Rams using any draft picks for this position. His salary has been in the 3-Mil range, so a 3 year deal with a heavy bonus that can be prorated would be in the works.

Player Trade:

Rams send Rob Havenstein

Vikings send 4th Rnd (#115)


Rams send Michael Brockers

Cowboys send 4th Rnd (#137)


Draft:

Rams hold 7 picks at the start of the draft.

3 of their own, 2 comp, and 2 trade (Vikings& Cowboys)

Trade :

#1(trade down)

Rams send #57

Chiefs send #63, #126


#2(trade up)

Rams send #101, #126, 2022 4th

Washington sends #77


#3(trade up)

Rams send #103, #115

Brown send #86


Rams own 7 selections after trades

Rnd 2 pick #63 Safety Hamsah Nasirildeen Florida St
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Nasirildeen is one of my favorite players this year. He is 6’4” – 220lbs. He can play like a LB or play in space with good range. He can take over for John Johnson and IMO, be an upgrade at the Strong Safety position. He was outstanding in coverage against TE’s and RB’s during Senior Bowl week. In addition to his size and length he creates turnovers.


Rnd 3 pick #74 DE/DT Daviyon Nixon - Iowa
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Rams trade up to get IMO the most under-rated player on defense. Nixon, at 6’3” – 305 lbs, is as powerful as he is quick. He has excellent quickness off of the snap and makes many plays in the backfield. He lead the Big-10 D-line play with 33 TFL, 41 total tackles, and tied for lead with 5.5 sacks. Pair him with Donald as the other DE and Rams D-line will be even better.


Rnd 3 pick #86 G/C Trey Smith Tennessee
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( Smith is #73 playing left Guard …. Not much tape available from the 2020 season. This is a bowl game from last season )


Smith is 6’6” – 320 lbs, has been a dominant lineman playing Tackle and most recently, Guard. He can bury people in the Run game and has a great base and balance for handling bull rushers in Pass-Pro. Once he gets his hands inside on a defender and extends his arms it’s play over for the defender. During Senior Bowl week he showed some opportunities to improve on redirecting once a D-lineman tries to get past moving from one side to another. His lateral movement skills did not show well but he would have some great coaching with Kromer.



Rnd 4 pick #137 (from Cowboys) CB – Keith Taylor - Washington
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Taylor has great size and length for a CB, 6’3” – 195 lbs. He has the ability play press man or drop off into zone. He has speed to recover if beaten initially off of line. He ran track and improved his 100m time from 11.5 to 10.89. He plays physical and is a willing tackler. But, as outlined in the video, his area of improvement is being a more consistent tackler. With the Rams utilizing some single high Safety, I would feel comfortable with Taylor playing boundary CB and being left on an island.


Rnd 4 pick #140 TE – Tommy Tremble – Notre Dame
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As I wrote in my previous Mock, I wanted to improve the blocking of the TE unit. And, since Tremble had already been mocked by @Grry, I thought I would try another approach. But, I can’t deny Tremble would be the best option if he falls this far. In addition to being the most dominant blacker in the class, he has enough speed and athleticism to be effective in the Passing game.


Rnd 6 pick #205 WR - Romeo Doubs - Nevada
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Here is the deep threat of the future. Doubs ( pronounced “Dubs” ) is 6’2” – 200 lbs, has elite speed and averaged over 40 yds per TD catch this past season. He also adds value as a returner. He can sit behind Hall Jr on the depth chart until he is ready.


Rnd 7 pick #248 RB - Gerrid Doaks - Cincinatti
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Doaks will be the “Big” back that replaces Malcom Brown. At 6’0” – 230 lbs, he is tougher to bring down yet still has enough juice to get large gains. He shows good hands out of the backfield and with his size, should be the most reliable pass protector of the group.

Roster:

Offense-

QB- Matt Stafford, John Wolford

RB- Cam Akers, Darrell Henderson, Gerrid Doaks

WR- Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, Marvin Hall Jr, Van Jefferson, Romeo Doubs

TE- Tyler Higbee, Brycen Hopkins, Tommy Tremble

OL- Andrew Whitworth, Trey Smith, Austin Reiter, Austin Corbett, Joseph Noteboom, David Edwards, Bobby Evans, Chandler Brewer

1st team: Whitworth (LT), Smith (LG), Reiter (C), Corbett (RG), Noteboom (RT)

Defense-

DL- Aaron Donald, Joseph-Day, Daviyon Nixon, A’Shawn Robinson, Morgan Fox

OLB- Terell Lewis, Obo Okoronkwo, Justin Hollins, Samson Ebukam

ILB- Micah Kiser, Troy Reeder, Nicholas Morrow Travin Howard,

CB- Jalen Ramsey, Darious Williams, David Long, Keith Taylor

Safety- Taylor Rapp, Hamsah Nasirildeen, Jordan Fuller, Terrell Burgess, Nick Scott

Specialists:
pick a UDFA long snapper
P - Hecker
K - Gay

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uh2W4DUAgQ

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:explode:

General off-season reminder; we discuss college draft, and everything NFL, in the main forum RAMS/ NFL TALK until after the draft.

Mock Drafts remain in DRAFT forum.

Thank you.


Key dates for the Rams' 2021 offseason

The offseason is already underway for the Los Angeles Rams. Here are the key dates to keep in mind as they prepare for the 2021 season, based on a report from NFL Network's Tom Pelissero on Nov. 18, a tweet from ESPN's Field Yates on Feb. 9 and dates currently listed on the corresponding NFL Operations webpage.

February

• Feb. 23-March 9: Franchise/transition player designation period. While it's possible the Rams use the franchise or transition tag this year, it's also worth noting they haven't done so since 2018.

March

• March 1: Deadline for eligible college football players to notify the NFL Player Personnel department of their intent to forgo the 2021 NFL Draft and return to college.
• March 9: The deadline for teams to designate franchise and transition tags ends at 1 p.m. PT.
• March 15-17: Pre-free agency legal negotiating window between teams and agents of players who will become unrestricted free agents. Some of the Ram's notable unrestricted free agents include safety John Johnson III, outside linebacker Leonard Floyd, center Austin Blythe, tight end Gerald Everett and wide receiver Josh Reynolds.
• March 17: New league year begins at 1 p.m. PT. At this time, trades and other transactions can become official, and free agency begins.

April

• April 6: Newly hired head coaches may begin their offseason workout programs.
• April 19: Start of offseason workout programs for all other NFL teams.
• April 23: Last day of restricted free agent signing period. Rams cornerback Darious Williams and tight end Johnny Mundt are both restricted free agents.
• April 28: Last day to match offer sheets for restricted free agents. For the Rams, this means that if either Williams or Mundt are signed to offer sheets by other teams, this date is the deadline to decide whether they want to match them and retain Williams and Mundt, or let them walk and receive compensation based on each player's tender.
• April 29-May 1: 2021 NFL Draft.

Mods if you want this in the draft area by all means move it. Putting it here for a distraction from the early Goffseason discussion back 'n forth, feeling kind of stale around here.

I know it's early and we're probably going to see more sorting than usual after all the workouts are done because there's less film and there will be more guesswork going on by teams in their board building. But even at this early stage we can see rough groupings that demonstrate certain positions will be more flush than other positions when we pick at 57. And one of the positions that looks particularly good to me right now is OLB.

Gonna pull some groupings here from different sites and big board listings for this. Consider this an early look and this may of course affect the Rams' strategy with Floyd, though even if they find a way to keep him I'd still like to see an addition for the blindside edge. OLB types who fit our defense are in red.

thedraftnetwork.com


pff.com
11 Kwity Paye
19 Jayson Oweh
21 Gregory Rousseau
24 Azeez Ojulari
28 Jaelan Phillips
38 Carlos Basham
53 Payton Turner
61 Ronnie Perkins
65 Joseph Ossai
66 Joe Tryon
67 Rashad Weaver
80 Dayo Odeyingbo
93 Cameron Sample
102 Quincy Roche

Some quick notes on these guys...

First if we lose Floyd then I want Odeyingbo more than I already do. But even if we keep Floyd I really like the look of this defense with two towers on the edges. I think Odeyingbo is going to be a stud and will climb the boards but if he doesn't he's my guy there.

I'm seeing a lot of deviation on different boards which is no surprise. Didn't include gbn because they have some of the LBs mislabeled in their roles. There are also quite a few ILBs who could get squeezed down to us in that range, but don't want to get my hopes up on a couple of these guys like Bolton for example (who would be a windfall if he gets to us).

There's a ton of LBs period in that top 100 but I didn't want to get too crazy and get into the off ball guys too here. Also WR is particularly good in that range to my eye at least. So I don't want to get too excited here or anything but I think Edge has a better than usual chance to be our pick at 57. Comparing these guys straight up to the other positions who are sorting in our range they do very well. Also there is going to be a better than average chance of one of them (that the Rams may covet) sliding to us.

MOD NOTE: Draft content goes here in the off-season.

In the off-season, RAMS/NFL is home to ALL football talk.

Sometimes it's good to get complete closure on something. Whether you think Goff held back the Rams for too long, or he got the shaft from the Rams front office, it will feel good to move on.

This is that thread.

If Goff throws for 5 TDs next preseason, post on this thread! If Goff throws 4 INTs in a game next season, this is the thread for you!!

You are also free to post on one of the 7,982 Goff threads already started.

If you create a brand new post on former Ram Jared Goff, may a curse rain down upon you and your clan.

The Ideal Offseason Trade Scenario for Every NFL Team
BRENT SOBLESKI FEBRUARY 11, 2021 \

The Ideal Offseason Trade Scenario for Every NFL Team | Bleacher Report | Latest News, Videos and Highlights

Cincinnati Bengals Trade for RT Rob Havenstein

1. 
   
   
   
   The Cincinnati Bengals don't make splashy offseason moves. They tend to go about their business and build their roster through bargain shopping and the draft. Their activity in last year's free agency was shocking, but it's unlikely the franchise will take a similar route this year.
   Even so, Cincinnati's offseason is built around one concept: building a better offensive front to protect last year's No. 1 pick, quarterback Joe Burrow.
   Los Angeles Rams right tackle Rob Havenstein is an interesting possibility because of his reliability (84 starts in six seasons) plus a relationship with Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, who was the Rams' quarterbacks coach in 2018. Havenstein would expand Cincinnati's options with the fifth draft pick since it is already set at left tackle with Jonah Williams.
   

Los Angeles Rams Trade DT Michael Brockers

1. 
   
   The Los Angeles Rams already made their ideal offseason trade by acquiring quarterback Matthew Stafford. Now, the organization finds itself in a familiar place. The Rams don't have a first-round pick (again) and need to shed salary. They're currently $25.2 million over the projected salary cap, per Spotrac. Los Angeles doesn't have any obvious moves it can make to solve the problem. The team isn't getting rid of Aaron Donald, Jalen Ramsey or Cooper Kupp. Michael Brockers is different since he turns 31 in December and the team allowed him to hit free agency a year ago before re-signing him. The Rams can save $6.2 million by trading him before June 1. That wouldn't single-handedly put them in the black, but it's a logical step considering their current cap crunch.

5 players the Rams could sign to extensions this offseason
5 players the Rams could sign to extensions this offseason (yahoo.com)

• 

For better or worse, the Los Angeles Rams are a team that likes to sign players early. They did it with Jared Goff, Todd Gurley and Tavon Austin, all of which backfired. But they also got ahead of the curve with Tyler Higbee and Rob Havenstein, which has worked in their favor.

They’ll have a few players this offseason who won’t become unrestricted free agents in March, but they could be candidates for contract extensions at some point this offseason. Four of the players listed below will be free agents in 2022, while the final one, Darious Williams, will be a restricted free agent this year.

Here are five players the Rams could extend this year, excluding unrestricted free agents.

OL Austin Corbett

By just about every account, the Rams are enamored to have Corbett on their roster. He was an important part of the offensive line in 2020, starting every game at right guard and playing well in that spot. He allowed just one sack, according to Pro Football Focus, and was a body-mover in the running game next to Rob Havenstein. The Rams could lose Austin Blythe in free agency this offseason, and though it’s unlikely Corbett will move to center, that is an option. Having a player with his position flexibility is invaluable. He should remain a staple of the team’s offensive line, being just 25 years old. By signing him to an extension now, the Rams could avoid potentially losing him in free agency next year.

K Matt Gay

Gay is under contract for one more year, so it’s reasonable to think the Rams could just let him play out the 2021 season on his current deal. That wouldn’t be a bad move, but he proved this past season that he’s capable of being a high-end kicker in the NFL. Signing Gay now instead of waiting a year would be somewhat of a risk if he regresses in 2021, but it could also save the team money by preventing him from hitting free agency and possibly getting into a bidding war with other teams seeking kickers next offseason. There’s certainly some risk and reward that would come with making this move.

NT Sebastian Joseph-Day

There’s no question Joseph-Day has earned a second contract with the Rams. In only his second year as a starter, Joseph-Day stepped up in a big way as the team’s nose tackle. Though he’s not much of a pass rusher, his value against the run is undeniable. Joseph-Day was a big reason the Rams ranked third in run defense this past season, consistently eating up blockers in the middle and allowing the linebackers behind him to run clear to the ball carrier. After struggling to find a true nose tackle for their 3-4 defense, the Rams have honed in on one with Joseph-Day, and they should sign him now before he hits free agency in 2022.

OL Joe Noteboom

The Rams probably won’t sign Noteboom to an extension this offseason, but he should be considered a candidate for a new contract as the team tries to figure out who will be the long-term answer at left tackle once Andrew Whitworth retires. They got their first good look at Noteboom playing that spot in 2020, as he filled in for Whitworth for the final seven games of the regular season. He wasn’t necessarily as good as Whitworth (few tackles are), but Noteboom was a good enough starter to hold up in pass protection. If the Rams feel good about making him the heir to Whitworth’s throne, signing him to an extension – and possibly lowering his cap hit slightly in 2020 – could be an option.

CB Darious Williams

Unlike the other players on this list, Williams isn’t under contract for 2021. He’ll be a restricted free agent in March, but the Rams can prevent that from happening by signing him to an extension ahead of time. Even though he’ll be a RFA, Williams won’t be hard for the Rams to retain. According to Over The Cap, they can assign him a first- or second-round tender, which will cost either $4.766 million or $3.384 million, respectively. By signing Williams now, however, the Rams can save themselves a lot of money if he continues to play at a high level in 2021, which there’s no reason to believe he won’t. If they don’t extend him and he goes on to have another great season, his price will skyrocket in 2022. Extending Williams isn’t a pressing issue this year, but the Rams should absolutely consider it with the way his stock is trending. And as an added benefit, they can structure an extension to come with a cap hit lower than the RFA tender would be in 2021.