http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl...ability-with-49ers/ar-BBByDM4?ocid=spartanntp

Brandon Jacobs blasts Jim Harbaugh’s coaching ability with 49ers

SB Nation
David Fucillo11 hrs ago

http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl...nee-is-100-percent/ar-BBBySVp?ocid=spartanntp

How about taking a trip in the way back machine to Brandon Jacob’s brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers? Way back in 2012, the 49ers signed Brandon Jacobs to compete with Kendall Hunter for a role behind Frank Gore. Jacobs suffered a knee injury in training camp and only played in two games that season. He was eventually suspended following critical tweets about the team, and then released.


On Friday, Jacobs had some interesting comments about his time with the 49ers. While appearing on Tiki and Tierney, Jacobs said he enjoyed his time there, but he did not see eye-to-eye with Jim Harbaugh (h/t Bleacher Report).

"Jim, I had a lot of respect for Jim when I was there – before I got to know him. I enjoyed my time there, but we didn't see eye-to-eye. I knew a little bit more about football than what they led on."

....

"Going somewhere where they don't have route conversions into certain coverages was just absurd. They're just running routes in the defense, getting people killed. Size and strength is what they had, and that's why they won. Let's be real. They had great assistant coaches, but Jim didn't know what he was doing. Jim had no idea. Jim is throwing slants into Cover-2 safeties, getting people hurt. That guy knew nothing, man."

The 49ers were very much a punch you in the mouth team. They ran some intriguing concepts on offense, but clearly it was not enough for what Jacobs expected of the offense. One of these days it might be nice to go back and look at what the offense was doing that season. It is hard to know for certain based on film since we don’t know what the playbook calls for, and we don’t know what a given receiver is doing.

I’d actually say sitting down with any of those offensive assistants would make for a fascinating conversation. The 49ers offense could do some big things at times, but there was inconsistency at times as well. They were able to do enough to get within five yards of a Super Bowl, but who knows what some adjustments on offense might have meant. Well, I suppose Brandon Jacobs thinks it could have made some kind of difference.

Robert Woods is looking out for No. 1 receiver role

Rams wide receiver Robert Woods participates in organized team activities last week in Thousand Oaks. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)
By Gary Klein

In a recent ceremony at his old high school, legendary status was bestowed upon Robert Woods.

Gardena Serra made the new Rams receiver the first recipient of “Serra Legend” recognition. In honor of his performance on the field, and the character he displays on and off it, a patch bearing Woods’ name will adorn the jerseys of all future players who wear No. 2 for the Cavaliers.

The Rams were not in search of a legend this offseason when they wooed Woods home with a five-year, $34-million free-agent contract.

New coach Sean McVay wanted a dependable, sure-handed route runner, a respected veteran to set an example for younger players in the locker room.

Woods, however, insists he can be more.

After four NFL seasons mainly playing a secondary role for the Buffalo Bills, there is no doubt in Woods’ mind that he can be a primary receiver.

“I feel like I definitely am a No. 1,” he said in March after an introductory news conference.

Woods, 25, this week repeated his intent to earn that profile when the Rams began organized team activity workouts at Cal Lutheran.


“I always come in attacking the season trying to be the No. 1 receiver,” he said.

The 6-foot, 193-pound Woods must increase his production to achieve that status among fans and NFL observers.

After an All-American career at USC — where he established a school record with 252 receptions in three seasons — he has averaged nearly 51 catches per season since his selection in the second round of the 2013 draft.

Woods has not amassed more than 699 yards receiving in a season, has only three 100-yard receiving games and no multi-touchdown games.

But that was playing in mostly run-based offenses that featured quarterbacks Tyrod Taylor and E.J. Manuel, running back LeSean McCoy and receiver Sammy Watkins.

Last season, the Bills led the NFL in rushing but ranked 30th in passing, one spot ahead of the Rams.

Woods caught 51 passes for 613 yards and a touchdown.

Woods, though, points to a November game against the Seattle Seahawks. He was targeted 13 times and responded with 10 catches for 162 yards, both career bests.

The Rams apparently took notice.

With McVay intent on instilling a new culture, the Rams let 1,000-yard receiver Kenny Britt leave as a free agent. They also did not re-sign receiver Brian Quick.

The Rams pursued receiver Pierre Garcon, who produced under McVay with the Washington Redskins. But when the price got too steep, they turned their attention to Woods.

“A pro’s pro,” McVay said after the first OTA workout.

Woods did not spend much time celebrating his new contract. A few days after signing with the Rams, he began working out with quarterback Jared Goff at a high school near the Rams’ training facility in Thousand Oaks.

“Just trying to get our timing down early,” Woods said, “just so our first impression with McVay and [offensive coordinator] Matt LaFleur was a good one.”

A connection is clearly forming.

During a workout a few weeks ago, Woods said, he and Goff missed on a play when the defense presented a certain look. On Tuesday, the first day of OTA practice, they got the same look.

“And this time, he threw it and it was a perfect pass,” Woods said. “He just puts the ball in perfect position for the receivers to make plays.”

Goff said Woods has been “more than I could have really expected,” noting his competitiveness and adding, “It’s really exciting for me to have a guy like that, multiple guys like that, but him in particular.”

Woods is part of a receiving corps that includes veteran Tavon Austin, second-year pros such as Pharoh Cooper and Mike Thomas and rookies Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds, among others.

Austin, who signed a four-year, $42-million extension before last season, is not participating in OTA workouts while recovering from wrist surgery. But McVay has spoken of making him one of the centerpieces of the offense.

Woods, in the meantime, is making an impression.

Rams receivers coach Eric Yarber was on college staffs at Washington and Arizona State when he began tracking Woods at Serra.

“I remember when he was in the ninth grade,” Yarber said. “I had friends on that [Serra] staff that were like, ‘That’s the one you need to be recruiting. Keep an eye on him.’”

Woods has already made an impact on the Rams, Yarber said.

“He sets an example for the room of how to be a pro,” Yarber said. “When you watch him prepare, he’s taking diligent notes, he’s asking very intelligent questions. He just knows how to prepare.

“He values the process over the prize. That’s what the really good ones do.”

Kupp, a third-round pick from Eastern Washington, sees a mentor in Woods.

“I’m just trying to soak up as much as I can and ask as many questions as I can,” Kupp said. “He’s a valuable source of knowledge and information for me.”

The Rams will conduct seven more OTA workouts and then hold a mandatory minicamp before breaking in mid-June. They will return for training camp in late July.

Woods is looking forward to the season and becoming a key component in McVay’s offense.

Last season, with McVay calling plays for the Redskins, Garcon and receiver DeSean Jackson each had at least 100 targets and amassed more than 1,000 yards receiving.

“They find ways to get receivers the ball and become a No. 1,” Woods said at his introductory news conference, “Or two No. 1s.”

[www.latimes.com]

Should the Rams consider signing former McVay coached RB Matt Jones, if released?

https://www.downtownrams.com/single...ormer-McVay-coached-RB-Matt-Jones-if-released

The former third-round pick of the Washington Redskins appears to be done with the team and a release could be imminent. The real question: Should the Rams consider reuniting him with Sean McVay?

Matt Jones is a bruising back that you probably already know just off his dominance against the Rams from a few years ago. Jones brings a nasty mean streak to him as a runner, he's not the fastest player on the field, but his power makes up for it. As great as Todd Gurley is...he isn't quite the bulldozer that Jones can be, which means the Rams likely don't have that goal line type of back on the roster if they want to spell Gurley.

According to CSN Mid-Atlantic the third-year running back is not in the Redskins plans moving forward after drafting former Oklahoma Sooner RB Samaje Perine. Jones, definitely was not okay with the move as he is holding out of OTAs, which has angered head coach Jay Gruden.

If Matt Jones continues to skip OTAs it's likely he will be cut and the 6-foot-2, 232 pounder will be a free agent. Now, I have no clue if Sean McVay had a relationship with Jones, but throwing the connections out of the window for a minute, the Rams don't have a 6-foot-2 and 230-plus pound bruising back. Obviously, the Rams are well over the cap, but that is due to the off-season rosters expanding to 90 men. Once the final cuts are made the Rams will likely be right where they need to be.

Jones has only had 243 carries for 950 yards rushing, six touchdowns as well as adding another 377 yards receiving out of the backfield on 27 catches. The reason for those stats being a little underwhelming at first glance was due to the time-share in Washington, but also the fact Jones only has played in 20 games in two seasons and only has seven official starts under his belt. Clearly Jones needs a change of scenery and the Rams could give it to him.

On the other side of the coin, the Rams have running backs Malcolm Brown, Aaron Green, Justin Davis, Lance Dunbar, Lenard Tillery and De'Mard Llorens. A move to get Jones would really speak on the coaches behalf on what they see and believe with the running back group thus far. My opinion and my knowledge of the situation coincide in the fact the Rams should be and are wanting to add a bigger pass catching back next season. Jones could definitely be that guy and cut down the wait time for that to happen.

Obviously, there is one key variable if any, for Jones to sign with the Rams and that is the first part, getting released. The team may choose to keep him and trade him, but overall I see Jones being cut before preseason. Is Jones a hidden need for the Rams? I would almost say yes, because of his ability to punch the ball in during short yardage attempts. As great as Gurley is, he was still stuffed plenty of times at the goal line and at least one of the times it costed the Rams a win.

The jury is out whether or not Matt Jones can be an NFL starter, but coming to the Rams he wouldn't have to be. This is likely the best route for Jones, going back to an old coach that understands the game of football and is comfortable utilizing him in both the running game and passing game. If Jones is to succeed at the NFL level and get his career back on track, the Rams seem like the perfect fit to propel his stock back to his rookie year.

Would you grab Matt Jones if he became available via free agency? Let us know!

Best Quotes from Week 1 of OTAs
Posted 3 hours ago

Myles SimmonsRams Insider@MylesASimm

Between coaches and players, the Rams had plenty to say from the first three OTA practices. Here are a few of the best press conference soundbites.

GENERAL MANAGER LES SNEAD

Is Aaron Donald's absence from OTAs contract related? “Here’s what I’ll tell you — we were aware that he was not going to be here. So at the end of the day, it has something to do with the contract. I can tell you this, we’re definitely at the serious stages of renegotiating — going to keep all of the details in-house. But respect Aaron as a player, a person, respect his representation, and respect the process. … We’ll keep [the contract discussions] intimate, but we’re at the serious part of the discussions."

Translation: Jesus H. Christ, the hell with the water tables in Inglewood, pay Donald, will you!

HEAD COACH SEAN McVAY

Do you envision tight ends Tyler Higbee and Gerald Everett being on the field at the same time? “Anytime that you get into some of those 12 personnel sets or however many times you want to play with more than one tight end, it does give you some flexibility. And we’ve seen good things from Temarrick Hemingway as well. I think we’re always just looking to find, what are the best ways we can create personnels? When you have some depth at the tight end position it gives you that ability.”

Translation: I'm going to try and cheat like hell, it seems to be working in New England.

QUARTERBACK JARED GOFF

How would you describe this offense in comparison to last year? “It’s way different. It’s a way different offense. Personally, from my brief experience with it. I’ve had a quicker time learning it, easier time learning it. I don’t know whether that’s scheme or the way it’s taught or whatnot, but I’ve enjoyed spending time with the coaches and picking it up pretty quickly.”

Translation: There is a God!

Do you feel like the culture has changed? “Absolutely. It’s been a great change so far. I think Coach McVay and his staff have implemented that and I think everyone has bought in. Honestly, I think from the leaders on the offensive side and the leaders on the defensive side have raised expectations and raised the standard. With that everyone seems to follow and so far I believe it’s been a really good change.”

Translation: And that God is Sean McVay.

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/LINEBACKERS COACH JOE BARRY

What has impressed you about middle linebacker Alec Ogletree? "The thing I love about it is he grinds every single day. I walk through my meeting room every morning at 6:30 in the chow hall, and there’s ‘Tree in the meeting room watching film — every single day. We’ve talked about consistency as the truest measure of performance — he’s consistent every single day."

Translation: I can't eat at the cool table

MIDDLE LINEBACKER ALEC OGLETREE

Is it the energy defensive cooridnator Wade Phillips brings sort of surprising considering his age? "Oh no — I mean, he’s doing what he loves to do. And for somebody to do it for a long time has to be doing something right. And he has a top defense almost every year that he’s been coaching. So I guess you have to experience it just to know why. But once you get to know him and see how he moves about, you can tell that he’s a legend in this game."

Translation: He runs well for an old fat guy.

OFFENSIVE LINEMAN RODGER SAFFOLD

What kind of adjustment will Rob Havenstein and Greg Robinson have to make going to right guard and right tackle, respectively? "Well you know there’s challenges. You guys already know I went through that, having to switch sides. So it’s just, right handed is going to be different. It’s a different type of speed. Your hips are different. Setting back, you’re going to have to kind of get that feel to be like, ‘How can I go against a speed guy? How can I go against a bull rusher?’ These are the basics that you’re going to have to re-learn. And then it depends on how you look at the plays. If you look at the plays. If you look at the plays as left and right, you’re fine. If you look at the plays as frontside and backside and you switch to the other side of the line, it can almost mess you up a little bit. You’ll get a little bit dyslexic. So you really have to focus in on the calls."

Translation: I'm sure glad I don't have to tell Robinson what to do anymore.

https://www.google.com/amp/theramsw...all-inglewood-stadium-delay-faa-approval/amp/

Makes total sense. I cannot prnt scrn on my phone of the google map overview of where the stadium will be built, and where the LOS of the LAX runways on the North side are situated. This is going to cause disruption and it is possible the FAA will get involved, i knew something was wrong when the rain excuse was brought up. This theory is even more plausible, and whoever decided to erect a stadium that is going to be taller than Hollywood park in that area needs to be fired immediately.

History: This plot of land was purchased in the late 1920's, in 1930 it was considered an airfield, obviously relatively small at this time. Hollywood park was built in 1938. In 1941 Los Angeles Airport was named. In 1949 Los Angeles International Airport was named.

Obviously bigger now than before. Point is whoever this genius is failed to historically look at facts and failed miserably in mathematics.

Here is what we got:

• Lance Dunbar. Free agent from the cowboys. Undersized. Undrafted. Only 31 rushing yards in 2016. Has had injuries.
  
• Malcom Brown. Also was a UDFA. 2 years in the NFL and only 50 yards to his name. North/south runner. Not sure why he has so little volume, injuries? Maybe someone else can fill me in.
• Aaron Green. Another UDFA. 0 yards in the NFL. Nothing really notable about this guy as far as I can tell.
• Gurley, RB1. Solid all around, should bounce back at least a bit in 2017. Can be a receiving threat but still need a solid 3rd down back imo.
  
• Justin Davis 2017 UDFA. Big fella from USC but doesn't play very big. Injury concerns. Not a big receiving threat.

TLDR: Gurley and 4 UDFAs who altogether rushed for less than 70 yards in the NFL last year.

Anyone else concerned about our RB depth? Who is our 3rd down back, Gurley? Maybe Dunbar can fill the receiving role? Which back is the best pass blocker? Are we asking too much of Gurley as an all purpose back?

Here’s why Year 2 should look much better for Rams quarterback Jared

Rams quarterback Jared Goff speaks with reporters after the first official day of the team’s offseason football training program on April 10 in Thousand Oaks. Goff said this week he has had an easier time learning the new offense implemented by Coach Sean McVay. (AP Photo/Greg Beacham)

By VINCENT BONSIGNORE

As observations go, it probably falls more into the can’t-be-seen-without-a-microscope category. But the most astute scientists will tell you items unable to be detected by the human eye are sometimes the most critical, so the relatively casual critique Robert Woods made about Jared Goff might foretell something more significant.

Woods, the Rams’ free agent wide receiver pickup, and Goff, the second-year quarterback on whom so much of their future success depends, have been consistent workout partners almost since the moment Woods signed last March. Woods might be only 25, but the four NFL seasons he has accrued involved five starting quarterbacks. And that’s four too many, given the timing, chemistry and comfort level required for quarterbacks and wide receivers to prosper together.

The former USC star would like nothing better than to develop a long, monogamous working relationship with Goff over the next few years, although that is largely dependent on Goff fulfilling the promise and potential the Rams envisioned upon drafting him first overall in 2016.

And as the early stage of their partnership evolves, Woods is on the lookout for evidence to support that conclusion.

A small sample of which was recently presented

A week ago, playing against a certain defensive look in practice, Goff misfired on a throw to Woods. The two hashed it out in conversation and conferred about it in the classroom. And when faced with the same defensive package against the same play this week during a Rams’ Organized Team Activity practice, the result was decidedly different.

“This time he threw a perfect pass,” said Woods, who seemed hardly surprised by the manner in which Goff made the adjustment or the pristine throw he delivered.

These are traits Woods has already recognized in Goff during their short time together.

“Work ethic, arm and accuracy,” Woods said, describing Goff. “You see him coming out here, always working, first to answer the question in the meeting rooms. He’s always listening. Always asking questions.”

That isn’t to suggest Goff will make the leap from the struggling rookie we saw in 2016 to All-Pro in 2017. Or that long-term success is guaranteed for the former Cal star. But given the natural progression from Year 1 to Year 2, the rebuilt infrastructure and support system the Rams have supplied Goff with this offseason and the more certain and confident demeanor he has presented so far during OTAs, there’s compelling reason to believe the 22-year-old will take a positive step forward this year.

“I think he’s done a nice job just getting better every single day,” said Sean McVay, the young coach with whom the Rams have entrusted the development of their valuable asset.

McVay’s hiring was step one in a multi-faceted off-season operation designed to enhance Goff’s development.

The 31-year-old coach’s offensive background traces all the way back to Bill Walsh — by way of McVay’s grandfather and former 49ers architect John McVay, as well as former Walsh understudies Jon Gruden and Mike Shanahan. The primary pillars of McVay’s offense rest on a foundation built by teaching and the core objective of making the hardest position on the field – quarterback – as easy as possible to play.

Those might seem like standard principals across the NFL, but execution, adherence and dedication can vary from team to team and coach to coach. And Goff already senses a different level of instruction working with McVay and his staff, which includes experienced offensive teachers in coordinator Matt LaFleur, quarterback coach Greg Olson and offensive line coach Aaron Kromer.

“(The offense is) way different,” Goff said. “ … I’ve had a quicker time learning it, easier time learning it. I don’t know whether that’s scheme or the way it’s taught or whatnot, but I’ve enjoyed spending time with the coaches and picking it up pretty quickly.”

And already McVay’s objective of making the quarterback position more user-friendly is apparent.

“Yes, you can definitely tell,” Goff said. “There’s a lot of things that may have been on our plate before aren’t now. But, there’s also some things that are. It goes back and forth. Obviously, it’s still a tough position but he’s done a good job in the past and with me and Sean (Mannion) so far. He’s taken a lot off of our plate.”

Phase 2 in the offseason operation was improving the level of talent around Goff, which included the signing of Woods, veteran left tackle Andrew Whitworth and center John Sullivan and the drafting of tight end Gerald Everett and wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds.

Goff was following the moves just like everyone else.

“I’m always watching,” he said. “I was excited about it. From Robert to Whitworth to Sullivan, to all of the guys that we drafted. It’s been really exciting to see. Exciting to see where their mentally is and, more than anything, I think they got some high-character guys in here … just some veteran guys that know what they’re doing and can not only help me, but can help everyone around them.”

Phase 3 is putting everything into motion in the classroom and on the practice field. Goff has been a mainstay at the Rams facility throughout the offseason — with participation amped up now that the Rams are in OTAs — while also working with private quarterback coaches Tom House and Adam Dedeaux to fill in the time players and teams are not allowed to be in contact, and informal workouts with Rams teammates at Westlake High and various area colleges.

He’s noticeably bigger from last year, having added 10 pounds to his wiry frame to continue the gradual yearly growth spurt he’s experienced for as long as he can remember.

“Every year I’ve kind of gotten bigger and stronger, and I’m still growing,” he said. “I don’t think I’m growing in height, as much as I’m getting a little bit wider.”

His team stature is also expanding, fueled by a work ethic others have noticed, the way he carries himself and how he interacts with teammates.

“He’s always one of the first people in here. He’s definitely always the last person out,” running back Todd Gurley said. “He’s just been doing a great job, just learning every day, getting better, in there with the coaches, attention to detail. Then just trying to make sure everybody else is on top of their game as well. He’s been doing a great job, doing what a quarterback is supposed to do. He’s going to lead this team.”

Phase 4 lies ahead. Training camp awaits. Followed by the preseason. And in early September he’ll take the field as the Rams’ starting quarterback when they open the season against the Indianapolis Colts.

We’ll have a better idea then how all the new evidence adds up, what kind of step Goff is prepared to take and how far he’s capable of leading the Rams.

But for now, anyway, there are signs to suggest Year 2 will look much different than Year 1.

“We know that any time you’re not truly live in some of these periods, it’s always a little bit more difficult,” McVay said. “I thought he’s done a nice job managing the huddle, got in and out today. He’s seeing some things, progressing through based on what coverages we’re seeing. We’re just focused on one day at a time and so far he’s done some nice things.”

[www.ocregister.com]

Narrated by Dick Enberg.
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Some good stuff from Vinny on Goff, Robinson, and a bunch of other stuff from what he's seen at OTAs.

And yeah, that's me that Josh is joking about in the opening.

Turf Show Times

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/05/26/espn-hires-chip-kelly/

ESPN hires Chip Kelly
Posted by Mike Florio on May 26, 2017

Getty Images

The two-time former NFL coach with a pair of buyouts will be getting paid by a network in 2017.

ESPN announced Friday that Kelly has joined the operation as a studio analyst. He’ll be part of the Saturday college football cooperate, and he’ll appear Sundays on SportsCenter to provide NFL analysis.

“I spoke with a lot of people this offseason about different situations for me — in coaching and TV,” Kelly said in a statement, via the Associated Press. “I had various opportunities in both. In the end, I have had a relationship with ESPN for many years from when I was coaching and after speaking with them, I decided it was the best step for me to take.”

In March, Kelly auditioned for a job at FOX. He wasn’t hired there. He also was considered for offensive coordinator jobs in the NFL, but likewise didn’t end up with a new team.

For starters, ESPN should get Kelly to a studio so that he can explain his assessment of quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s unemployment, Kelly’s opinions regarding Kaepernick’s skills and abilities, and whether and to what extent current NFL coaches and/or executives have called Kelly for his input on the still-unemployed quarterback.

If, that is, ESPN is willing to risk ongoing ankle-biting from those who insist that the recent layoffs flow not from a seismic shift in the cable TV industry but from a perceived lean to the left.

When I moved in here the neighbors closest to me were pretty nice. That was ten years ago. Five years ago we cut some trees down that were close to the property line. The neighbors always said that they were on my property. They also said that the stump on the other end was my property.

Well now that I paid to remove the giant trees and put down topsoil and fixed it up, they slowly started mowing closer and closer to the little wood shed I built close to the line. They were mowing well beyond the location of the huge trees. The trees were about 4' wide and I mowed between them and the wood shed.

On the other end Randy (neighbor) told me the stump was a tree that was on my side and he asked permission of the former owner to remove it. However there was still a stump there that I had mowed around for many years.

A few days ago a fence shows up stacked in their yard and they had a string set up over what they originally told me the line was. I wanted to talk to him about it but he instantly went into screaming mode. It all came about because I put a small planting bed around that stump. I didn't want to mow around it anymore so I covered it up and planted it. They claim that I put part of it on their land. I told him he should have just said something to me instead of stewing over it for 2 years and that I was only going by where he originally told me the line was.

He has not been friendly since I put the plants in, which he could have spoke up about before I actually finished it. So, recently he measured his property to arrive at the line he has drawn and installed the fence. I did the same and it turns out that the location of the line seems correct. I removed those trees on good faith and paid $3000.00 to do so. He wont talk or discuss anything he just yells like an irrational asshole.

So, is there any chance I can recoup that money by suing him? He already said that he really thought they trees were mine when I removed them. It is suspicious that he started claiming that land shortly after the grass came in. Or am I stuck for trusting him and proceeding without having it surveyed? Randy claims he is going to have an official survey done, but I don't believe him. He only measured off of the neighbors land with a tape. If the official survey shows that the trees were on his property I should be able to take him to small claims court shouldn't I?

My family and I are thinking about building and I was hoping to get some non biased info. Has anyone ever had a home built before? Anyone out there a builder? Just looking for some tips on how to choose and negotiate with a builder on the front end ....

http://m.therams.com/s/30854/409?itemUri=40892409/12511150413106112551214811214


Ogletree Making Smooth Transition to 3-4 2017-05-25 6:10 PM | Myles Simmons

Alec Ogletree has earned a reputation for being one of the more active linebackers in the league. Upon being hired as the Rams' assistant head coach/linebackers coach, Joe Barry repeatedly expressed his excitement for being able to work with him.

And with good reason. In his first year as Los Angeles' middle linebacker, Ogletree recorded a team-high 171 tackles - a mark fifth in franchise history. And through a week of OTAs, Barry's excitement for his first season with Ogletree has only grown.

"He's a blast to work with," Barry said this week. "The great thing about the NFL and our league is that, really, you get to know everybody - even if it's somewhat indirectly - because of the Combine, because of the process when guys come out. So I remember interviewing 'Tree at the Combine. I remember I did it individually, we brought him in for a formal interview when I was in San Diego. And it's cool however many years later - five years later - to now be with him."

The admiration between coach and player is mutual, extending to defensive coordinator Wade Philips as well.

"They're good people," Ogletree said. "Coach Wade is a calm dude, but he throws little jokes in there, so if you're not really listening, you'll miss it. But he's a good person to know, and he's got a lot of experience - him and Joe. And I'm really enjoying having them in the room."'

Despite the change to a 3-4 base defense under Phillips, Ogletree said the transition isn't too significant.

"It's not much different, I guess you would say - just because I played the 'Mike' last year and I'm still playing the same position," Ogletree said. "The calls are different and that's really about it. Everything else is still pretty much the same."


"It's just words. It's terminology, you know? Everyone somewhat runs the same coverages," Barry said. "Everyone runs man-free. Everyone runs three-deep. But it's just maybe what he's been used to calling 'apples' the last five years, well now it's 'oranges.' And in your head you've got to transfer over, 'Oh my gosh, we call that oranges now.'"

When Ogletree took over at middle linebacker last offseason, one question that continually came up was his comfort with the leadership role that comes with it. After a year in the role - and as a defensive captain - Ogletree has grown into the role.

"It's going on my fifth year in the league, second year as mike linebacker - definitely a lot more comfortable with the position than I was last year," Ogletree said. "I just try to remember what I did well last year, and try to improve on some things that I didn't do last year. And as far as leadership goes, it's about just holding guys accountable and all that. So I just try to do my part on that and just lead by example, and do the right thing."

"He's phenomenal with the guys in the huddle, on the field, obviously," Barry said. "But just listening to him, and watching him in the meetings in that setting, seeing him in the weight room this offseason with him working - he's our leader. And it's cool to see that."

According to Barry, Ogletree's work ethic reflects importance of being the quarterback of the defense. Barry praised how detailed Ogletree has been in his preparation, saying it's a sign of the linebacker's maturity.

"Just the way he is, he's such a professional and he really does try to be a perfectionist," Barry said. "I walk through my meeting room every morning at 6:30 in the chow hall, and there's 'Tree in the meeting room watching film - every single day. We've talked about consistency as the truest measure of performance - he's consistent every single day."

And so as Week 1 of Phase III ends, Barry feels good about the way his middle linebacker has progressed throughout the offseason program.

"He's a little bit better today after OTA No. 3 than he was after the first day of Phase I," Barry said. "Now hopefully, we just keep building blocks and I'll be saying the same thing next Friday after OTA No. 6. And then, again, the process just continues, just building blocks and getting better and better."

http://www.simivalleyacorn.com/news/2017-05-26/Sports/Spruce_ready_to_bounce_back.html

Spruce ready to bounce back
Former Westlake wide receiver looks sharp on first day of OTAs with Rams
By Nate Smith



STAND TALL—Nelson Spruce, a Westlake High grad, walks off the field after practice with the Los Angeles Rams on May 22 at Cal Lutheran. BOBBY CURTIS/Acorn NewspapersNelson Spruce had never suffered an injury playing football in high school or college.

That changed once he suited up for the Los Angeles Rams.

Spruce, an undrafted free agent wide receiver out of Westlake High, posted six receptions for 51 yards and one touchdown in a memorable preseason debut against the Dallas Cowboys last year. He got hurt during the game, however.

The setback came at an inopportune moment for Spruce, a rookie at the time.

“It was a big blow,” he said.

Preseason games provide the best opportunities for unproven players—especially undrafted free agents—to showcase their talents.

Despite the untimely injury, the Rams saw enough to keep the receiver on board. Spruce missed the remaining three preseason games last year, but he made the final 53-man roster.

The injury bug, however, reared its ugly head again. While recovering from a sprained knee, he suffered a calf injury. The Rams shut him down for the rest of the season, placing him on injured reserve in November.

“It was tough, mentally, just staying into it,” Spruce said. “The other guys on IR, we formed a close group, and that helped us get through our different injuries.”

The 2016 season was not kind to Spruce, but last year is in the rearview mirror.

He feels better than ever.

“Everything feels fine. I feel 100 percent, no issues,” Spruce said. “I haven’t felt like that in a year almost.”

Spruce stood out on a field of professional athletes during Rams’ organized team activities on May 22 at Cal Lutheran.

He was flying all over the field, running crisp routes and snaring every spiral tossed in his direction.

Spruce is no stranger to having the ball nestled securely in his hands.

During his time at the University of Colorado Boulder, Spruce set a record for most career receptions in the Pac-12 Conference with 294 catches.

Cooper Kupp, a Rams’ rookie wide receiver out of Eastern Washington, spoke highly of Spruce.

“He’s a great guy, a great competitor,” Kupp said. “I’m really excited to be on the same team as him.”

Getting to practice is never an issue for Spruce.

“It’s almost surreal just because it feels like I’m back in high school again,” Spruce said. “I’m still living at my parents’ place. I’ll wake up and drive over here to the facilities. It’s kind of like a high school routine almost. It’s a unique experience.”

Spruce enjoys playing close to home, but he wants to earn the fans’ respect. After battling his way back from injuries, he’s motivated to play well in the fall.

“It’s been humbling for me,” Spruce said. “The past few years at high school or in Colorado, I’m used to coming off a big season production-wise and actually playing. This is the first season that I didn’t really touch the field because of an injury.

“At first it was tough, but it lit a fire in me a little bit.”

Spruce is hoping Rams’ quarterback Jared Goff can help keep the flame burning.

Goff, who played at California, met Spruce when both toiled in the Pac-12. They had a quality relationship before becoming teammates with the Rams.

“We are friends,” Spruce said. “Off the field we do a lot of stuff together.”

The Rams will hope the friendship off the field will translate into success on the field.

Goff, a second-year pro, is now the unquestioned starter.

The QB is constantly evaluating his game while trying to find ways to improve.

“I’m growing as a person, as a player and as a leader,” Goff said. “Everything is always evolving.”

For Spruce, the new season presents a new opportunity. He will have to prove himself all over again with a new coaching staff and greater expectations.

He’s not afraid of the challenge.

• 
  
  
• By Bucky Brooks
• NFL Media analyst
• Published: May 25, 2017

Former NFL player and scout Bucky Brooks knows the ins and outs of this league, providing keen insight in his notebook. Back off Jared Goff!

IS JARED GOFF A BUST? Let's all take a deep breath

In the Twitterverse, the trolls would have you believe that the Rams' QB1 is an abject failure based on his disappointing first seven games as an NFL starter. Sure, the 2016 No. 1 overall pick failed to win a game while completing just 54.6 percent of his passes with a 5:7 touchdown-to-interception ratio and a 63.6 passer rating.

But what if I told you that, despite his slow start, he is following a path that could make him a two-time Super Bowl MVP and four-time Pro Bowl selectee?

If you're a Rams fan, take solace in the fact that Goff's slow start surpasses Eli Manning's early days as an NFL starter. In 2004, Manning completed just 48.2 percent of his passes, throwing six touchdown passes against nine interceptions and producing a pedestrian 55.4 passer rating. He posted a 1-6 record during that span, struggling to find his rhythm as a rookie starter.

Eventually, Manning became comfortable within the Giants' system and was able to rely on his solid supporting cast to help him grow into an upper-echelon quarterback capable of driving his team to the winner's circle.

This is crucial to remember when thinking about Goff, especially considering that the Rams just brought in a new head coach with a system and a plan in place that should help the second-year player significantly progress.

Goff's success starts with coach Sean McVay and his version of the spread formation, which features West Coast offense principles. Without seeing the Rams practice yet, I'm basing my opinion on how the young offensive guru built the offense in Washington to enhance the strengths of his quarterback (Kirk Cousins) and incorporate the talents of the supporting cast.

While Goff might be familiar with the schematics of McVay's system (the QB directed a "Bear Raid" offense at Cal that featured some basic West Coast offense principles like Y-stick, snag and mesh), it might be the condensed verbiage that most helps a quarterback who never called a play in the huddle as a collegian, taking in calls off placards from the sideline.

Speaking to a Rams executive recently, I was told that the team's play calls are "not as wordy" as they've been in the past, and McVay has done a great job of lightening the load on the quarterback's shoulders.

"We had some play calls with as many as 12 to 15 words," the Rams exec said. "It's hard for a young quarterback who has never had to make a play call to spit out a long play call to his teammates, remember all of the alerts and checks, and know exactly what he is supposed to do at the line of scrimmage and post-snap. ... McVay has tried to scale back on some of the verbiage to help him get in and out of the huddle faster. It should also help him digest the information quicker and be a more decisive player at the line."

With young quarterbacks, it is important to free their mind from clutter to help them allow their talents to shine. Trimming the verbiage will certainly help Goff play faster, but alleviating some of the responsibilities on his shoulders should help him focus on being a more effective and efficient player at the position.

Naturally, the toughest transition for most young quarterbacks is understanding pass protection and deciphering coverage.

They can work hand in hand with the safety rotations tipping off the potential extra rushers on a play. Some schemes leave it up to the quarterback to audible or change the play or protection in those instances, while other systems incorporate built-in answers with hot reads (quarterback targets a designated receiver or running back on a short route or flare pass against a blitz) or sight adjustments (designated receiver runs to a void created by a blitzing defender on the second level).

Based on how Cousins attacked blitzing defenses in Washington, it appears he was asked to find the hot read or sight adjustment that's built into the route. Considering how Goff countered blitzes in a similar fashion in college, he should be comfortable identifying and targeting the designated blitz-beater within the route.

From a personnel standpoint, the Rams' new receiving corps will also help Goff make a significant jump as a sophomore. After watching their receivers struggle mightily in 2016, the Rams added Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp to the group during the offseason.

Woods, a fifth-year pro with 203 career receptions, is a slick route runner capable of playing outside or in the slot. Although his career numbers (2,451 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns) suggests that he isn't a marquee pass catcher, Woods was consistently open on a variety of short and intermediate routes when I studied the game film. He not only gained sufficient separation from defenders, but he was able to use a wide array of stems and top-of-the-route moves to shake free from coverage.

Kupp, whom the Rams took at No. 69 overall in this year's draft, was viewed as one of the cleanest route runners in his class after a spectacular career at Eastern Washington. Scouts raved about his "high football IQ" and work ethic as a collegian, and he has already impressed NFL folks with his diligence and attention to detail.

"We needed dependable and reliable pass catchers on the perimeter," the Rams executive told me. "The quarterback needs to know that his top targets are going to be where they're supposed to be, when they're supposed to be there. Woods and Kupp will be in the right spots. That alone will help Goff become more consistent."

Although many observers wouldn't consider Woods or Kupp A-level receivers, there are plenty of teams that have succeeded with solid B-level pass catchers in a West Coast system that creates opportunities for polished route runners. Thus, the Rams' passing game could flow smoothly without a true No. 1 on the field.

Now, I didn't forget about Tavon Austin as a possible option as the team's WR1, but he has yet to even come close to a 1,000-yard receiving season through four pro campaigns. Most importantly, he hasn't carved out a niche as a vertical threat or catch-and-run specialist. With Austin currently sidelined due to injury, we'll see if McVay can eventually work the diminutive playmaker into the passing game as a big-play threat.

Speaking of playmakers, the Rams have a pair of them at the tight end position in Gerald Everett (a second-round pick in April) and Tyler Higbee (a fourth-rounder in 2016). The duo could help Goff become more efficient as a quick-rhythm passer, playing pivotal roles as TE1 and TE2 in an offense expected to be more "tight end-centric," according to NFL Network's Steve Wyche.

The move to a multi-faceted tight end attack is sensible, given the unique athleticism that Everett and Higbee bring to the table. Plus, the double-tight end set creates problems for the defense because it allows the Rams to utilize a power running game with Ace (single back with tight ends on opposite sides) or Tight-Wing (single back with both tight ends on the same side).

Not to mention, the team can incorporate a number of movement-based passes off play-action fakes (bootlegs) to attack the defense with three-level reads (post, crosser and flat).

The Rams can also flex either tight end out to form a spread set out of "12" personnel. This is something the Redskins frequently utilized with Jordan Reed under McVay to create mismatches on the perimeter.

Considering the athleticism and route-running skills of Higbee and Everett, the Rams can spread opponents out to allow Goff to play "small ball" (quick game), giving the young quarterback an opportunity rack up completions and stay in manageable situations.

Obviously, the presence of a strong running game would also help Goff become a better player in his second season. For that to occur, the Rams need Todd Gurley to rediscover his mojo as a feature back. After bursting onto the scene as a rookie with at least 125 rushing yards in his first four NFL starts, the 2015 Offensive Rookie of the Year hasn't cracked the 100-yard mark in 18 straight games.

No other running back since the 1970 NFL-AFL merger has played all of his team's games and averaged as many carries per game as Gurley (17.4) without reaching 100 rushing yards at least once in a season, according to NFL Research.

If Gurley re-emerges as a dominant threat in the backfield, the Rams can allow Goff to act as more of a manager than a playmaker for the offense. This certainly won't appease observers expecting a young quarterback to throw the ball all over the yard, but the majority of second-year field generals still need to operate under a tight pitch count (25 passes or fewer) until they are able to show their coaches they can handle more responsibilities as the offensive leader.

In the end, Goff's success will ultimately come down to whether the Rams can build a system around his talents that allows him to showcase his strengths as a quick-rhythm passer.

If McVay can quickly identify what his young passer does well and feature concepts that allow him to stay in his lane, Goff will eventually show off the talent that made him the No. 1 pick in the draft. If the team can identify and develop a supporting cast that enhances the young quarterback's game, the wins will start to pile up and the naysayers will quickly forget about the slow start that had some uttering the "B" word after just seven starts.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap30...infused-bucs-will-rampage-back-off-jared-goff

The Denver Broncos and John Elway are working on a new contract, but Stan Kroenke and the Los Angeles Rams could make a run at Elway. PFT’s Mike Florio talks about it.

Watch Florio Talk Elway

Found this @ ramsheadquarters.com

http:www.ramsheadquarters.com/los-angeles-rams-might-wear-matte-helmetshorns-on-new-uniforms/

They got rid of the horns. Still has the gold. That ain't gonna fly with Rams Fans.

The keyword is "might". I sure hope this is not gonna happen.

If they put this on the Players, I'm done.

Post your exact prediction and we’ll see how close you come.