Right side of Rams’ offensive line under a microscope Saturday against Raiders

Rams tackle Rob Havenstein, left, and guard Jamon Brown listen to offensive line coach Aaron Kromer during a recent practice. (Photo by Kyusung Gong, Orange County Register/SCNG)

By VINCENT BONSIGNORE

OAKLAND – The Rams will push their starters into the second quarter Saturday against the Oakland Raiders. It’s the typical plan of attack the second week of the preseason, with NFL coaches extending clock time for starters as they chart their flight plan toward the regular season.

The primary objective is creating a smooth landing for the regular-season opener, as players prepare both their bodies and minds for the grueling 16-game schedule.

But there are underlying objectives that go along with preparation. Even for starters who will give way in the second quarter to backups looking to solidify jobs or simply survive to see another couple of weeks.

Which brings us to the right side of the Rams’ offensive line.
It’s two players in count – they would be guard Jamon Brown and tackle Rob Havenstein – but in overall impact they seem so much larger in the grand scheme of things.

The left side of the line was essentially locked down with the signing of All-Pro left tackle Andrew Whitworth. His presence meant Rodger Saffold could return to his more natural left guard position full time. And with the addition of veteran center John Sullivan, it meant the Rams offensive line from center to left tackle was set.

The right side was another story, with the Rams first experimenting with moving right tackle Rob Havenstein to right guard and guard Jamon Brown to right tackle.

Those changes happened in OTAs. But they lasted all of one week in training camp, at which point Havenstein returned to tackle and Brown went back to guard.

Havenstein seems to have settled right back in in his new “old” position. He looks natural and comfortable and while not overly dominant, certainly capable and reliable.

Brown, maybe not so much.

He wasn’t particularly sharp against the Dallas Cowboys in Saturday’s preseason opener, and while it was an extraordinarily short stint of action it was noticeable.

.And it sent the Rams into this week in major evaluation mode.

By Thursday, the right side of the offensive line still seemed a work in progress – as in changes could still happen – but Rams coach Sean McVay held hope the unit can solidify itself.

“I think really everybody is a constant work in progress, because we always strive for that improvement,” McVay said. “I think with our line as a whole, just continuing to get those guys to feel comfortable. That continuity that we talk about, that’s so important. But, with the right side of the line, I feel good about Rob Havenstein at right tackle and Jamon Brown at right guard and that’s what we’re going to be right now and that’s what we anticipate moving forward.

“I think those guys getting comfortable at those spots is the most important thing leading into (the regular-season opener) and that’s the lineup that we’ve got right now. I think they’ve done a good job kind of having played tackle and guard and then going back to it, it’s been good for us to evaluate and see that these are probably their most natural spots and that’s important for us as coaches to put these guys in the best situations for them to have success.”

The entire line faces a huge test Saturday night against a fierce Raiders defense.

But Brown, in particular, is under a microscope.

If he handles the challenge, the Rams will breathe a little easier.

If not.

Well …

“It’s big,” McVay said. “I think that experience, especially for younger players at any position, is extremely beneficial and that’s something that we don’t take lightly. We know we’re going to get an opportunity to go against a great front and great defense in the Oakland Raiders. They’ve got some premiere players on that side of the football that will pose a great challenge and it’s going to be a great evaluation tool for us.”

So while your eyes will naturally follow Jared Goff and Sammy Watkins and all the Rams offensive skill position players.

Keep an eye on the right side of the Rams offensive line against the Raiders.

It’s pretty important.

[www.ocregister.com]

It's Game Day!




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Game Preview: Rams, Raiders Gear Up for Week 2 of Preseason

The Rams are set to play their first road game of the 2017 season on Saturday following the team’s 13-10 win over the Cowboys in the preseason opener. In Week 2 of the preseason, the Rams will travel to the Oakland Coliseum to face off against the Raiders. Saturday’s matchup will mark the first time the two teams have met in the preseason since 2015.

In their win over the Cowboys, the Rams’ starting offense played for just two drives, ending in a fumble recovery for a touchdown, scored by wide receiver Cooper Kupp. Quarterback Jared Goff looked relaxed on field for the short span, completing three of four passes for 34 yards, while Sean Mannion went 18 of 25 for 144 yards.

After practice on Wednesday, head coach Sean McVay said the goal for Saturday’s game was to play their starters “through the first quarter,” easing them into the action over the next two games. The newest Rams’ wide receiver Sammy Watkins, who entered training camp just four days ago, will take reps with the first-team against the Raiders.

“Sammy’s going to be a guy that is a big part of our plans offensively [and] I think in the last couple days, he’s made a seamless transition,” McVay said. “We know that we’ve got to increase the level of urgency to get him where we needs to be by the time the regular season rolls around, [but] I’m looking forward to seeing him compete with these guys against Oakland on Saturday.”

For Goff, Saturday will represent his first time playing in the Bay Area since he was in college at the University of California. The quarterback said he was excited to build upon the win in Week 1 and create a “rhythm” heading into the second.

“That’s what I look forward to doing,” he said, “is just getting out there and stringing a few completions together, moving the ball and hopefully getting us in the end zone a couple of times.”

But that won’t be easy. In the Raiders, the Rams’ offense will face a top-tier defense led by the pass-rushing duo of Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin. The pair combined for 18 of the Raiders 25 sacks last season, and according to Pro Football Focus also led the NFL in stops with a combined total of 79.

In addition to the passing game, the first quarter matchup will allow McVay to get a good look at the progress of his offensive line, specifically Jamon Brown and Rob Havenstein — who made the switch to right guard and right tackle over training camp.

“It’s big,” McVay said of going up against the Raiders’ defense. “I think that experience, especially for younger players at any position, is extremely beneficial and that’s something that we don’t take lightly. We know we’re going to get an opportunity to go against a great front and great defense in the Oakland Raiders.”

After a strong defensive showing in the preseason opener where the Rams held the Cowboys to 48 yards rushing and just 10 points overall, Week 2 against the Raiders will bring the team a new set of challenges.

The Raiders ranked sixth in the NFL in total offense last season, averaging 26 points per game, led by quarterback Derek Carr and wide receiver Amari Cooper. And though the Rams will not face the Raiders in the regular season, linebacker Alec Ogletree said the game will still give the defense a chance to evaluate its progress thus far.

“Right now it’s still kinda early, so you’re definitely trying to focus on yourself and do things you need to do for the season. Luckily, Oakland’s not on our schedule this year,” Ogletree said. “[But] for sure there are things to work on — we did miss a few calls, but we were able to get the job done [last week], even with some of the mistakes.”

The Raiders are coming off of a loss to the Cardinals 20-10. But it is important to note that many of their starters, Mack and Cooper included, were held out of the preseason opener and are set to return in Week 2. Overall, Saturday’s game should be an exciting challenge for the Rams, who will land in Oakland fresh off of the conclusion to their 2017 training camp.

“I think in terms of what you what to get out of training camp, continuing to try to connect as a team, continue to get better in your offense and defense, and special teams systems, we’ve gotten a lot of things accomplished,” McVay said.“[But] Oakland has some premiere players that will pose a great challenge and it’s going to be a great evaluation tool for us.”

Kickoff is set for Saturday at 7 p.m. For more information on how to watch click here.

Madden NFL 18 Rams Season Simulation


The Rams are heading into week two of the preseason tomorrow where they will face off with the Oakland Raiders. Before anything is played, I felt it would be intriguing to delve into a Madden 18 simulation of the Rams season. The new Madden game comes out next Friday, but since the Xbox one happens to allow EA Access we can play it for a quick 10-hour trial. So here is how the brand new rosters in Madden 18 (Sammy Watkins included) feel about the Rams season.

The Rams started off red hot out of the gate even after losing star LB Alec Ogletree and WR Cooper Kupp. They would end up winning three-straight against the Indianapolis Colts (35-13), Washington Redskins (27-24) and the San Francisco 49ers (31-17). Jared Goff and Sammy Watkins appeared unstoppable to start the season connecting on three straight 100 yard games for Watkins and two touchdowns in each contest. Once the Rams headed to Dallas trouble emerged. Dak Prescott was actually injured in the game that did not include Ezekiel Elliott due to suspension and Prescott while trying to carry the Cowboys fell victim to a knee injury that would end his season. Luckily for the Cowboys and unluckily for the Rams backup QB Luke McCown overcame the impossible odds and dominated through the air for a 28-7 victory over the Rams.

The quarter mark finished with the Rams staring at a 3-1 record (same as last season). Back home they would go to play the Seattle Seahawks in week 5. The Rams would, unfortunately, lose Robert Quinn for the rest of the year with a torn pectoral and Maurice Alexander for an extended time with a fractured foot. The Rams were unable to overcome the injuries in a loss at home versus the rival Seahawks. Goff had an impressive day, but the Seahawks would go on to win 33-21. The Rams would follow up a two game losing streak in Jacksonville to face Blake Bortles and the Jaguars. With an overall average performance of Goff, the Rams would ride the coattails of Todd Gurley to go out in front and finally seal the deal with a Mark Barron interception. The Rams would finish their half of the season going into the bye. In came the Arizona Cardinals to steal a home game from the Rams. It was the Gerald Everett coming out party as he put up two scores and 177 yards receiving. Unfortunately, the injuries of Michael Brockers and Trumaine Johnson begin to pile up in a Rams 17-28 loss. The Rams come off the bye week flat versus the New York Giants on the road. Goff has one of his worst games and Watkins and Everett are held to a combined total of 5 yards in the game. The Giants go on to roll to a 24-6 win with Odell Beckham Jr. and Evan Engram causing all sorts of trouble for an injured secondary.

The third quarter of the season kicks off with another Rams loss after Deshaun Watson out-duels Jared Goff to win the game 37-25 in Alec Ogletree's return from his injury. It's week 11 and the Rams head to Minnesota to play Sam Bradford and the Vikings. Samson Ebukam ends up knocking Sam Bradford out of the game with a knee injury and the Rams have their way with Teddy Bridgewater. The Rams pick off Bridgwater four times including three from Kayvon Webster in a dominant road win 38-14. Back to Los Angeles we go for the matchup between Goff and Drew Brees. Gurley goes down early in this one and it's up to Lance Dunbar and Malcolm Brown to carry the load. Brees and Goff throw five touchdowns each as Tavon Austin explodes for 231 yards and two touchdowns. Ebukam continues to fill in for Quinn nicely as he forces a fumble and takes it back for the game winning touchdown as the Rams win 49-42. The Rams are back over .500 at 6-5 and head to hostile Arizona to gain ground in the NFC West. In a close game, Lance Dunbar has a career day with 125 yards and two touchdowns, Aaron Donald racks up five sacks, but it's all not enough when Dunbar fumbles on the potential game winning drive 24-27.

The final quarter of the season and the final stretch leaves the Rams needing to win out to win the division. A reeling Seahawks team combined with a bad Cardinals team and 49ers team means the NFC West division title is wide open for the Rams. The Rams head into the Goff vs. Wentz bowl and Wentz picks apart the Rams for a 28-7 victory and a likely elimination of the Rams playoff hopes. The Rams head to Seattle to face what is their last opportunity to stay in the hunt. Goff breaks his collarbone early on and Sean Mannion goes off for 349 yards and two touchdowns to help beat Seattle 26-20. The Rams need to win out to possibly eek into the playoffs, but now they face the 12-2 Tennessee Titans who have serious Super Bowl contention. Mannion gets picked off by rookie CB Adoree Jackson twice and Marcus Mariota totals up to 467 total yards to beat the Rams and end their playoff hopes 35-21. The season finale in Los Angeles the Rams try to break even at 8-8 on the season by winning over the revitalized 49ers. Gurley is back from injury and Mannion plays well, but not well enough as C.J. Beathard and George Kittle are too much to handle in a 28-23 final.

The Rams finished this simulation 7-9 which many may feel is very realistic. Madden may have way more faith in players like Lance Dunbar and Sean Mannion than the majority of fans do, but hey, that's simulation. Now here are the stats that Madden simulated for the Rams.

QB:
Jared Goff (12 starts): 3,091 yards, 21 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, 58% completion, 83.9 passer rating
Sean Mannion (4 starts): 810 yards, 4 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 57% completion, 88.3 passer rating

RB:
Todd Gurley (10 starts): 208 carries, 869 yards, 4.2 yards per carry, four touchdowns, three fumbles
Lance Dunbar (6 starts): 152 carries, 547 yards, 3.6 yards per carry, 11 touchdowns, two fumbles
Malcolm Brown (0 starts): 74 carries, 209 yards, 2.8 yards per carry, 3 touchdowns, zero fumbles

WR:
Sammy Watkins (16 starts): 69 receptions, 1,062 yards, 15.4 yards per catch, seven touchdowns
Tavon Austin (16 starts): 74 receptions, 818 yards, 11.1 yards per catch, four touchdowns
Robert Woods (13 starts): 43 receptions, 509 yards, 11.8 yards per catch, zero touchdowns
Cooper Kupp (0 starts): 9 receptions, 122 yards, 15.3 yards per catch, zero touchdowns

TE:
Gerald Everett (16 starts): 63 receptions, 697 yards, 11.1 yards per catch, seven touchdowns
Tyler Higbee (0 starts): 6 receptions, 58 yards, 9.7 yards per catch, zero touchdowns

DEFENSE:
SS Maurice Alexander (12 starts): 106 TKL's, 1.5 SACKS, INT, 11 PD's, 2 FF's
OLB Samson Ebukam (13 starts): 106 TKL's, 0.5 SACKS, 3 TFL's, 2 PD's, FF, FR, TD
ILB Alec Ogletree (13 starts): 105 TKL's, 0.5 SACKS, 3 INT's, 7 PD's, 4 FF's, 2 FR's
CB Trumaine Johnson (14 starts): 93 TKL's, 0.5 SACKS, 2 INT's, 12 PD's. FF, FR
DE Aaron Donald (16 starts): 90 TKL's, 12.0 SACKS, 17 TFL's, 3 FF's, 2 FR's
CB Kayvon Webster (16 starts): 88 TKL's, 3 INT's, 14 PD's, FF, FR
FS LaMarcus Joyner (16 starts): 82 TKL's, 2 INTS. 7 PD's, FF, FR
CB Nickell Robey-Coleman (16 starts): 82 TKL's, 1.0 SACKS, INT, 9 PD's, FF, FR
DE Ethan Westbrooks (16 starts): 57 TKL's, 6.0 SACKS, 5 TFL's, PD
DT Mike Purcell (10 starts): 54 TKL's, 2.0 SACKS, 2 TFL's, FF, FR
ILB Mark Barron (13 starts): 52 TKL's, 0.5 SACKS, TFL, 3 INT's, 6 PD's, FF, FR
OLB Connor Barwin (15 starts): 52 TKL's, PD
DT Michael Brockers (6 starts): 41 TKL's, 2.0 SACKS, 8 TFL's
DT Louis Trinca-Pasat (0 starts): 28 TKL's, 2.5 SACKS, TFL
OLB Robert Quinn (4 starts): 27 TKL's, 5.5 SACKS, TFL, PD
OLB EJuan Price (0 starts): 26 TKL's, 4 TFL's, FF
CB Michael Jordan (1 start): 25 TKL's, TFL, 0.5 SACKS, INT, 5 PD's, FF, FR
SS Isaiah Johnson (0 starts): 8 TKL's
LB Bryce Hager (0 starts): 7 TKL's, FF, FR

SPECIAL TEAMS:
K Greg Zuerlein: 16/21 FG's, 45/45 XP's
P Johnny Hekker: 57 PUNTS, 2,717 YD's, 47.7 AVG
KR Tavon Austin: 29 KR's, 773 YD's, 26.7 AVG, TD
KR Sammy Watkins: 19 KR's, 508 YD's, 26.7 AVG, TD
PR Tavon Austin: 32 PR's, 263 YD's, 8.2 AVG

Notables:

- Samson Ebukam finishes third behind 49ers LB Reuben Foster & CB Ahkello Witherspoon for Defensive Rookie of the Year voting

- Gerald Everett finishes third behind Bears QB Mitchell Trubisky & Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey for Offensive Rookie of the Year voting

- Prized free agent LT Andrew Whitworth "hit a wall" giving up 13 total sacks on the season

- Aaron Donald finished runner-up in Defensive Player of the Year voting to Packers LB Jake Ryan

- Maurice Alexander, Aaron Donald & Johnny Hekker were the Rams only Pro Bowl selections

- Rams signed WR Sammy Watkins to 4-years/$69 million

- Rams extended SS Maurice Alexander to a 4-year/$28.2 million deal

- Rams signed MLB Alec Ogletree to 5-years/$50.1 million

- Rams let Trumaine Johnson, LaMarcus Joyner, Connor Barwin & Nickell Robey-Coleman test Free Agency

- Rams extend Aaron Donald to a 7-year/$154 million deal

What to make of this...

Nothing, it's not real, it's just for fun. Clearly, there are some things that are off, but overall it's interesting. It appears Madden thinks the Rams offense has not only immensely improved with the addition of Sammy Watkins, but it's also primed to outperform the defense. That I disagree with and I'm sure many will as well. The big theme of this season would be injuries, but after that? Probably the emergence of Jared Goff. Now, the Rams have lost Goff to a broken collarbone in this simulation, but everything aside from that you would sign up for a 3,000-plus yard season from Goff with 21 touchdowns and 13 picks in a heartbeat. Sure, you may have higher expectations, but in 12 games that looks like a good line. Same with Todd Gurley's 850-plus yards in 10 games. The big thing that kind of stuck out to me and was a little disappointing was the fact that Cooper Kupp suffered a torn achillies in week one. Let's hope for the love of the god that the Rams stay more injury-free than this simulation appears to think. Overall, it's not perfect, it's a simulation, but it gives us a barometer of where Madden may think the Rams fall.

Perhaps it isn't their year this season, but the Rams moving from a 4-12 disastrous start to the return to Los Angeles era to 7-9 is a solid improvement and would have new Head Coach Sean McVay held in high regard as the Rams enter the 2018 off-season.

I'm watching the Seahawks vs Vikings game and Seattle's LT George Fant had his leg rolled up on. He was in terrible pain and was carted off the field with what appeared to be a severe left knee injury. Definitive reports will probably confirm this soon.

Seattle's offensive line is already a weakness in their team but they did sign Luke Joeckel with experience at LT. Joeckel has been playing left guard but seems likely to transition over since backup option Rees Odhiambo is a joke in pass protection.

The Rams should be salivating over the opportunity to expose he holes in that unit. :boxing:

Like many of you, I enjoy reading about the ins and outs of football. Far too few journalists discuss it. This is an older article, but I hadn't seen it before. I don't know a lot about special teams, so I find it very interesting and informative. Here it is:
http://insidethepylon.com/nfl/teams...27-yard-punt-return-a-lesson-in-reading-keys/

I'm not going to copy and paste the text because there are a lot of pictures and videos involved in the explanation. I've read some other very interesting articles from the same author, so I recommend others checking out other articles of his.

Just making this thread because it looked like Seattle just lost their starting LT for the season. He was carted off. Also, Wilson looks the same as usual and Sammy hasn't changed at all. Stefon Diggs is a beast. Seattle has WR Kasen Williams. Big body dude with good hands and leaping ability. Could be a steal for them.

I was watching some replay games. I found a play from last preseason game. We have a 1st and 10, snap is initiating right at 12:17 in the first quarter.

The entire offense and defense is loaded to the right side.

On the hand off Gurley looks to make the right decision. Keeping his shoulders square to the line. But shortly after that he looks like he has tunnel vision. He had a great initial set up and the blocking was terrific. Due to him keeping his shoulders square he created a massive cutback lane. I haven't watched coaches film but I could see a hole being created.

I've ordered some things. Should have them next week...

im currently boarding a flight to head to SAn Fran to go watch this game. Anybody else going by chance? Agreed to meet some guys who are Raider fans I served with. I would like to meet a few of you if you will be there!

TheRinger.com analyst Michael Lombardi joins the Rich Eisen Show (8/18/2017).

Here's one that will make your blood boil. Rich asks Michael if the Rams are the biggest NFC sleeper team in 2017. Lombardi's hot take:
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In short, the Rams are extremely bad. McVay is too young and will be a poor first year head coach. Jared Goff is a bust. He was awful against the Cowboys and was pulled after 8 plays. Am I missing anything?

There's a reason you work for "The Ringer" and not an actual sports network, Michael.

http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/...-anthem-gets-chris-long-support?sf107245251=1


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Eagles' Chris Long on backing Malcolm Jenkins' protest: 'I'm here to show support as a white athlete'

play

Long, Jenkins reflect on significance of unity gesture (1:18)

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2:52 AM CT

Tim McManusESPN Staff Writer

PHILADELPHIA -- Philadelphia Eaglessafety Malcolm Jenkins continued his protest of social injustice Thursday by raising a fist over his head during the playing of the national anthem before the team's preseason home game against theBuffalo Bills.

In a show of support, defensive end Chris Long kept his hand on Jenkins' back for the entire playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner," then gave Jenkins a pat on the shoulder pads and a hug when the song was over.

EDITOR'S PICKSOwners can freeze out Kaepernick, but NFL's activists keep message alive

Malcolm Jenkins and a few of Colin Kaepernick's courageous peers aren't backing down to the league's owners. They're willing to keep taking significant hits for real-world change.

Long bros.: Hate won't define Charlottesville

Chris and Kyle Long, who grew up in Charlottesville, Virginia, watched in dismay as their hometown was besieged by violence and hate rallies over the weekend. The brothers say the community will not be defined by those actions and will emerge stronger.

Titans' Jones fears anthem protest will cost him

Titans lineman DaQuan Jones is worried that if he continues his post-national anthem protests, he'll be labeled as "a Colin Kaepernick" and it will hurt his career.

"I've heard a lot of people say you need white athletes to get involved in the anthem protests," Long said. "I've said before I'll never kneel for an anthem, because the flag means something different for everybody in this country, but I support my peers. And if you don't see why you need allies for people that are fighting for equality right now, I don't think you'll ever see it. So my thing is, Malcolm is a leader, and I'm here to show support as a white athlete."

A native of Charlottesville, Virginia, Long has been outspoken about the recent events in his hometown. Earlier in the week, he called the actions of the violent protestors "despicable."

"I was inspired by a lot of the allies that were there to stand up against hate in my hometown, and I wasn't able to be there to protest or to stand up against hate. People like Heather Heyer gave their lives for that, and I was inspired by that," he said. "So it's just telling Malcolm, I am here for you, and I think it's a good time for people who look like me to be here for people fighting for equality."

In another show of support for Jenkins, Eagles cornerback Ron Brooks kneeled during the anthem, video showed. Brooks did not dress for the game because of a hamstring injury. Last year, Brooks joined Jenkins in raising a fist for multiple weeks before being sidelined by a ruptured quad tendon.

Long approached Jenkins before the game to tell him about his desire to show support during the anthem. After getting an understanding for the message Long wished to convey, Jenkins agreed.

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"I think it is important to show, especially for a white male to show, that although these problems don't necessarily affect you, you can still see the significance in it, you can still be in support of your brothers that are going through it," Jenkins said.

Eagles DE Chris Long, left, kept his hand on Malcolm Jenkins' back as Jenkins raised his fist during the playing of the national anthem before Thursday's preseason game. AP Photo/Matt Rourke

Jenkins raised a fist above his head for all but one game in 2016 -- the exception being the regular-season opener against the Cleveland Browns on Sept. 11 out of respect for those who served and died on that day in 2001 -- and did so again before the preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers last week. A source close to Jenkins told ESPN last week that he intended to demonstrate for the entire season.

Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett sat during the national anthem last Sunday before their preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams in part because of the recent events in Charlottesville. His teammate, receiverDoug Baldwin, says he is considering joining Bennett in the demonstration.Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch remained seated during the national anthem before the team's 20-10 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday.

Earlier this week, Jenkins said he does not expect to see a large uptick in anthem protests as a result of what transpired in Charlottesville.

"It's just telling Malcolm, I am here for you, and I think it's a good time for people who look like me to be here for people fighting for equality."

Eagles DE Chris Long

"What happened to Charlottesville to me was not a starting point. To me, that would not be the point in which somebody would start to do the protest," he said. "That was a result of years and years of frustrations and battles that have been going on for a long time. Those are just kind of the results of the existence of hate, racism and prejudices that have long plagued America. So I don't see people now trying to get involved in that because if you hadn't seen a problem until the other day then you've kind of been sleeping."

The original pregame demonstrations were kick-started by quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who began sitting during the national anthem in the 2016 preseason before taking a knee for the final preseason contest and 16 regular-season games.

Sources told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter in March that Kaepernick would stand during the national anthem this upcoming season. He has not been signed by another team since opting out of his contract with the San Francisco 49ersmonths ago, however.

Jenkins is one of several players who have continued the protest in Kaepernick's absence, while others across the league have voiced their support for the cause and concern over whether the quarterback is being blackballed as a result of his actions.

"Last year, the people who were against Kaepernick were probably making the most noise, and now you have the reverse," Jenkins said. "So keeping him out of the league, you think that things are going to smooth over but in actuality you're having a bigger uproar from people who want to see him have a job -- especially if him not having a job is solely on his political stance."

Jenkins has developed into one of the leaders of the NFL players' off-the-field movement. He helps coordinate the efforts of a growing network of NFL players looking to get involved in social activism, has made multiple trips to Capitol Hill to speak with politicians about mass incarceration and police brutality, and has met local law enforcement and participated in a ride-along with Philadelphia police.

While he wants to off-field efforts to be the primary focus, he feels the protests are still needed to bring attention to the issues of social injustice.

"As the blowback against those who stand up for what is right thickens, I feel it is necessary to push forward with a relentless determination," he told ESPN in a statement last week. "I want to send a message that we will not easily be moved or deterred from fighting for justice."

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Which NFL teams are most likely to go from worst to first in 2017?

Pondering which NFL teams are most likely to go from last place in their division in 2016 to first place in 2017? Start with Cam Newton and the Panthers. Jim Dedmon/Icon SportswireFacebookTwitter

http://m.therams.com/s/30854/409?itemUri=40892409/810133151081491494598927150
Doesn't affect our WR room much.

Letter C is noted for a number of great Ram defensive standouts, second-level offensive targets, tight ends and an interesting list of notable NFL players that happened to have a cup of coffee with the Rams. The usual "no" winner is noted, and a couple bonus categories.

1. Nolan Cromwell
2. Kevin Carter
3. Charley Cowan
4. Jim Collins
5. Ernie Conwell
6. John Cappelletti
7. Kevin Curtis
8. Pat Carter
9. Aaron Cox
10. Pat Curran

Honorable mention: Benny Cunningham, Shane Conlan, Don Chuy, Rich Coady, Joe Carollo, Kellen Clemens, Frank Corral, Mark Clayton.

Notable: John Carney, Howard Carson, Marv Cook, Irv Cross, Dexter Coakley, Chris Chandler, Corey Chavous, Henry Childs.

No: Trung Canidate
F-no: Jared Cook
Really?: Bob Cobb
OJs slow-speed get away driver: Al Cowlings.

:cheers:

Adam Schefter "...two sides are not close to a contract right now. Some believe that Aaron Donald's holdout will last into a few games of the regular season."

Keyshawn Johnson(paraphrase): "the homeymoon period with Shawn McVay will be over after the Rams win only 2 games of the first 5." (because Donald is still out).

How many games will we lose because Donald is out in the first 5 games? (if so)

I want to know what you guys think of this final version of my New Rams Helmet. On the other thread, the blue face mask won the pole, so I went with it. I tried to get the colors as true to the old helmets as possible. I want to know what you guys think of the colors, and the horns with the subtle shadows and highlights. Also the horn shape. I re-drew the curve and I think it fits the helmet nicely. Thanks in advance for the feedback.

For those non Rams games chat it up in here instead of starting a hundred threads.

Bortles and Jacksonville as a whole look bad just really bad. First half is almost over and they have 7 carries for 1 total yard.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.co...strike-in-2021-is-almost-a-virtual-certainty/

De Smith: Lockout or strike in 2021 is “almost a virtual certainty”
Posted by Mike Florio on August 17, 2017

Four seasons remain under the current labor deal, but the drums of labor war already are beating.

“I think that the likelihood of either a strike or a lockout in 2021 is almost a virtual certainty,” NFL Players Association DeMaurice Smith recently told Albert Breer in a video posted at SI.com.

There can be a lockout without games being forfeited; that’s what happened in 2011. So will there be games missed if there’s a work stoppage in 2021?

“I don’t know now, but let’s look at our history,” Smith said. “The owners do a deal in 2006 and opt out in 2008. We do a deal in 2011 with no opt outs because we like the benefits under the current deal and we didn’t want to give the owners a chance to opt out and take back the gains that we currently have. . . . So we have a new deal where if it doesn’t get fixed you head into a certain small-A armageddon.”

In many respects, the situation will be influenced by whether the owners seek to make gains, whether the players seek to make gains, or both. It’s possible that the owners, who complained incessantly about the 2006 deal and never say a peep about the current deal (and all that that implies), will be playing defense in 2021, content to continue under the current terms and daring the players to strike.

Ultimately the question could be whether the players would miss game checks. Many believe that ship sailed for good in 1987, when the use of replacement players caused the players to crater after only a few weeks. The last major work stoppage came in 1982. That year, a strike reduced the regular season to nine games.

If the players are going to strike in 2021, those who will still be in the league need to save their money, and the union needs to have a plan to provide revenue for future players who currently are in college or high school. Above all else, the players need to be willing to go without football.

The best litmus test for the will to strike in the future could be an effort to boycott on a mass basis the voluntary portion of the offseason program. While players with significant workout bonuses may not be inclined to stay away, if enough players skip OTAs to make the session essentially meaningless, that would provide ownership with a capital-W warning shot for what may come in time.

http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/20371989/2021-strike-lockout-very-likely

The NFL and its union agreed to the current 10-year CBA on July 25, 2011. That agreement came after a 132-day lockout.

The agreed-upon CBA hasn't meant there has been labor peace, however, as the NFLPA has clashed with the NFL over player discipline in such high-profile cases as Adrian Peterson's suspension for child abuse, Tom Brady's Deflategate suspension and, most recently, Ezekiel Elliott's suspension for alleged domestic violence.

On Wednesday, the NFL and the players' association released dueling statements in which the NFL alleged that the union was releasing details of Elliott's accuser's text messages to discredit her. The NFLPA responded by calling the accusations a lie.

The last time NFL players missed games was the 24-day strike in 1987, which began after Week 2 and prompted the NFL to cancel its Week 3 games and shorten the season to 15 games. The league played with replacement players for the next three weeks until the players ended their strike after Week 6.

For all of us Ram fans that have endured a prolonged string of one false start after another, my question is simple. Do we have that one guy on this years version of Rams that will calmly step onto the freshly mowed grass of an NFL Sunday and simply make plays. You know, the guy that everyone else watches as teammates and all settle down because that one guy is on my team, and he WILL make plays. You know, that guy where the game doesn't seem too big for him, in fact it looks fun, and everybody else joins in the party. Kurt Warner was that guy. Eric Dickerson was that guy. Merlin Olsen was that guy. Deacon Jones was that guy. Do we have that guy this year? I want to see your guesses. I'll make mine right now on a ridiculously small sample size, but we're all buddies here right? Just having some pre season fun right? Let's dream a little. Here is my early pick for that guy.
Cooper Kupp... and here is what I see. A quick hitting short pass that Kupp turned up the field for a first down after deftly avoiding a tackle and swiveling his hips to get little on the sideline for an extra 5 yards. Insignificant? Maybe, but a I think I see a guy who will make everyone better including his quarterback. He's also the guy who was the only one moving for the loose ball in the end zone when Woods got popped. I think the game looks slow to Cooper. What say you?

Header's better than Robinson looking at Whitworth.

Lamarcus...."UH OH..."

Aaron Donald's agent Todd France has history that could mean trouble for the Rams


Remember last year when the Los Angeles Rams took Jared Goff number one overall, Carson Wentz went number two to the Philadelphia Eagles and then the Los Angeles Chargers (San Diego at the time) took Joey Bosa? Well, unlike the first two selections, Bosa gave his team a little bit of a rough time during the training camp/preseason period.

Joey Bosa was represented by none other than Todd France, a super agent with CAA Sports agency. France made negotiations of Bosa's rookie deal extremely hard to come by for the Chargers. Both sides went back and forth, bear in mind this was only over the language in the rookie contract. Bosa ended up holding out until August 29th, 2016. Bosa stayed patient, while I'm sure as well as the next one he wanted to be out there participating and playing in games. It's pretty obvious he just decided to listen to France and holdout to avoid injury and ultimately fix the offset language in the impending contract.

Now, Bosa has proven his worth after a dominant rookie year, but who is France in protection of now? Aaron Donald. That's right, the Rams prized possession and face of the defensive side of the ball. Donald has been terrorizing offensive lines, running backs and quarterbacks since he entered the league via the 2014 NFL Draft. Donald has watched as the Rams not only struggled on the field, but even off it failing to re-sign defensive backs Trumaine Johnson, Janoris Jenkins, Rodney McLeod and T.J. McDonald. Donald has also watched and has seen teammates Mark Barron, William Hayes, Tavon Austin and Michael Brockers receive extensions. Now, with the Rams planning to re-up Alec Ogletree and LaMarcus Joyner, it appears that Donald is tired of waiting his turn for a pay raise.

France has influenced Donald to go after that big time pay day and even result to holding out like his client Joey Bosa did last season. France is known for getting the most for his clients. Just look at a few of his clients and what deals he got them.

WR Demaryius Thomas - 5 years/$70,000,000
WR Emmanuel Sanders - 3 years/$33,000,000
DT Marcell Dareus - 6 years/ $96,574,118
DT Fletcher Cox - 6 years/$102,600,000
CB Aqib Talib - 6 years/57,000,000

Why is this trouble for the Rams? Again, Bosa was just holding out based on language in his contract that needed to be changed. Aaron Donald? This is a new unprecedented thing in itself. France is responsible for contracts of two of the top five highest paid defensive tackles in the league. Donald happens to be a lot better than every single one of them in the top five. He also happens to be only 26 years old and likely the youngest of the bunch. France could be looking at having Donald holdout well into the season for a contract. If Bosa held out until late August, expect Donald to seriously holdout into the regular season. The earlier reports from Adam Schefter may seem crazy that Donald would do that, but with France's track record, he would.

France has proven time and time again he is going to bat and he is going to be extremely aggressive for his clients. Donald is likely his top client now as he is arguably a top three player in all of football. So, the rules may bend a little and that is why we may have heard of a potential opt-out clause getting in the way. The bottom line is, France's job is to get his client (Aaron Donald) the most guaranteed money and the Rams job is to re-sign their star player for a good enough value so that they don't set themselves back years. The Rams are going to need money left over to sign the likes of first overall pick QB Jared Goff, tenth overall pick RB Todd Gurley and even newly-acquired former fourth overall pick WR Sammy Watkins.

With Donald having a world-class agent, the Rams are going to be backed into a tough corner and might not see Donald until during the regular season or even after. If that indeed comes to fruition the Rams may only have one choice and that may involve a trade. Keep in mind, the Chargers may have signed Bosa to his rookie deal, but there is no reason to think France is done tormenting the Chargers over contracts. What you saw with Bosa in his holdout you are seeing with Donald. What you are seeing with Donald about his extension in year three, you will likely see with Bosa. The Rams, their fans, and teammates can only hope this gets resolved soon, because that no.99 is a game-breaking type player that a young team with a completely new system and coaching staff in place will need to succeed in 2017.

Gotta love the pundits and egg-spurts. "Sammy is damaged goods", "Sammy gets the shaft", "Rams losers in risky trade of injury prone Sammy".

And what NFC West DBs are looking forward to facing the all new Ram WR group? McVay says he wants to protect Watkin's health and max his productivity. I see him making Austin earn his, setting Higbee & Everett loose and giving plenty of reps to Kupp, Cooper, and Reynolds all season long. Woods is our possession guy and Sammy will keep Ds honest. Even if it's a one year deal, Sammy came to the best possible place for his career!

So I listen daily to the two southern california sports stations Am710 and 570. While I'm not really happy with how often they talk football (almost never) but when they do talk about it I'm all ears!

I'm trying to figure out why they talk so much shit on the Rams??? It seems like every sports announcer hates the Watkins trade because of what we gave up. They ALL HATE GOFF, I mean there's not really a single one of them that stands up for him. It's kind of disgusting tbh, while they don't have to actual Rams fans it would be nice to hear something positive for once.
I also realize that we went 4-12 last year and it wasn't pretty. But they are still acting like this is the same old regime and Fisher is still calling the shots.

Yep I said it. I'm not saying we're going to be a great team, and I'm definitely not saying that we're going to win the super bowl, but my optimism is growing every day.

The Rams have gone 4-12 twice in the past 20 years - 1998 and 2016.

While we didn't change head coaches in 1999, we brought in an entirely new offense - like McVay has done.

We traded a 2nd round pick for an established star NFL player in Marshall Faulk - this year we traded a 2nd round pick for Sammy Watkins.

Going into the season, our best player on offense was/is a running back - Faulk and Gurley.

Before the trade, we had a star offensive player that seemed like his career might be wasted - Bruce and Gurley.

Warner had no NFL experience and no reason to think he'd be a good QB - enter Goff and how the media is talking about him.

Tavon Austin and Cooper Kupp as your 3rd and 4th WR kind of sort of remind you of Hakim and Proehl, potentially..

Rams signed a stud offensive linemen in the offseason in both years: Timmerman and Whitworth


There is some overlap to some of that, but still - thought it was interesting. Nobody thought we would make any noise in 1999, and while that type of lightning in a bottle is nearly impossible to capture twice, I can't help the growing optimism I feel for this season.