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With the 2020 offseason coming to an end, here is my list of superlatives:
Best Move: Locking in Jalen Ramsey
Given the amount of draft capital expended, this had to happen. The fact that it got done before the season through a smooth process that never resulted in Ramsey openly complaining or, worse yet, sitting out, is a big plus. The Rams are banking on a Donald/Ramsey core being the key to having a strong defense in the next few years. I think that's a good bet.
Worst Departure: Corey Littleton
While I get the economics, I wish we could have retained Littleton, who was a Swiss Army Knife for the defense. His ability in coverage could be tough to replicate.
Best Draft Pick: Van Jefferson
I have high hopes for Cam Akers, but I think Jefferson could prove to be a real steal. While some prospects may have better measurables, on the surface, throughout the pre-draft period and forward through training camp, all I've heard about this guy is that he really knows how to separate and has great hands. Isn't that pretty much the job description for a WR? Remember - the pick that was used to acquire Jefferson was the one obtained in the Brandin Cooks trade, so Jefferson could also save us money in the long run.
Riskiest Draft Pick: Terrell Lewis
This one is pretty obvious, particularly with Lewis being shelved for at least 3 weeks. Of course, risky does not necessarily mean bad. He has a ton of potential which, hopefully, will display itself if he gets (and stays) on the field.
Biggest Surprise: David Edwards/Bobby Evans - both backups?
If the Rams' "unofficial" depth chart is to be believed, neither Edwards nor Evans will be starters on opening day. This surprises me (particularly Edwards), as I thought they showed potential last year. Perhaps they will work their way back to the starting lineup or, perhaps, I just overestimated them.
Key Sleeper: Jordan Fuller
The positive reviews he has been receiving are encouraging. For this year, he could be a valuable backup and contributor on special teams (and, perhaps, in dime packages). More importantly, if the Rams can't retain John Johnson, he could be a quality replacement at a bargain price next year.
Addition by Subtraction (tie): Saying Good Bye to Todd Gurley and Wade Phillips
Its hard to say good bye to people who had a positive impact in the past, but when its time, its time. Todd Gurley, in my opinion, has never really been a "we, not me" kind of guy. When he was at his peak physically, that was okay, as he was good enough to be a bit selfish. Last year, he was not at that level, and I don't know that he'll ever get back. Phillips was a great support system for Sean McVay in his first couple of years, but I think it was time for some innovation and change on the defense. I think Brandon Staley will bring those elements.
Best Move: Locking in Jalen Ramsey
Given the amount of draft capital expended, this had to happen. The fact that it got done before the season through a smooth process that never resulted in Ramsey openly complaining or, worse yet, sitting out, is a big plus. The Rams are banking on a Donald/Ramsey core being the key to having a strong defense in the next few years. I think that's a good bet.
Worst Departure: Corey Littleton
While I get the economics, I wish we could have retained Littleton, who was a Swiss Army Knife for the defense. His ability in coverage could be tough to replicate.
Best Draft Pick: Van Jefferson
I have high hopes for Cam Akers, but I think Jefferson could prove to be a real steal. While some prospects may have better measurables, on the surface, throughout the pre-draft period and forward through training camp, all I've heard about this guy is that he really knows how to separate and has great hands. Isn't that pretty much the job description for a WR? Remember - the pick that was used to acquire Jefferson was the one obtained in the Brandin Cooks trade, so Jefferson could also save us money in the long run.
Riskiest Draft Pick: Terrell Lewis
This one is pretty obvious, particularly with Lewis being shelved for at least 3 weeks. Of course, risky does not necessarily mean bad. He has a ton of potential which, hopefully, will display itself if he gets (and stays) on the field.
Biggest Surprise: David Edwards/Bobby Evans - both backups?
If the Rams' "unofficial" depth chart is to be believed, neither Edwards nor Evans will be starters on opening day. This surprises me (particularly Edwards), as I thought they showed potential last year. Perhaps they will work their way back to the starting lineup or, perhaps, I just overestimated them.
Key Sleeper: Jordan Fuller
The positive reviews he has been receiving are encouraging. For this year, he could be a valuable backup and contributor on special teams (and, perhaps, in dime packages). More importantly, if the Rams can't retain John Johnson, he could be a quality replacement at a bargain price next year.
Addition by Subtraction (tie): Saying Good Bye to Todd Gurley and Wade Phillips
Its hard to say good bye to people who had a positive impact in the past, but when its time, its time. Todd Gurley, in my opinion, has never really been a "we, not me" kind of guy. When he was at his peak physically, that was okay, as he was good enough to be a bit selfish. Last year, he was not at that level, and I don't know that he'll ever get back. Phillips was a great support system for Sean McVay in his first couple of years, but I think it was time for some innovation and change on the defense. I think Brandon Staley will bring those elements.
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