It is indeed a tough roster to crack, I think ST will get special attention and may even keep a player or two who can really elevate the overall performance whether or not they play on offense or defense.
Yet Tru Edwards replacing Tutu Atwell is the only difference from last year's team that lead the NFL in scoring.
I just don't know what defensive player the team could have selected at #13 that would make much difference as a rotational backup as it's doubtful anyone would crack the starting lineup barring an injury.
Rueban Bain would be the only potential impact guy IF injuries hit the position. So you can say the same about Simpson if Stafford misses a few weeks. If he has to play two games and can win one of them, that could be huge if it gets them a 1 or 2 seed or just the division overall.
Yes with an older Adams to boot. Replacing Atwell with Edwards is a big TBD and most definitely not a guarantee to happen. As much as I didn't like the Tutu pick, he actually has more on tape than an unproven Edwards. I think as fans we tend to fall in love with guys that don't amount to much. Not saying it can't happen, but its definitely a big couple steps Edwards has to take. We shall see. I hope the Rams look at adding a vet or have one on speed dial. Relying on saying we were the number 1 offense LAST year doesn't mean anything for this year by the way. I still expect the Rams to have a great offense but would not be surprised if they take a tiny step back there. Just saying it's hard to be #1 every year.
Adams is older and Mumphfield, Smith, and Whittington are more experienced and could improve. Tutu is more proven that Edwards, but I'm not so sure just how much that matters given he only had 6 receptions last season. I'd also think that someone like Edwards would have a better shot at being active because he's big enough to play special teams.
I'm sure Stafford will do his damndest to elevate the team but if Puka or Adams goes out, we really don't have much experience behind them at all. Whittington is really just a JAG, Smith has at least shown glimpses every here and there, and Mumpfield isn't anything special but could develop further. Our best chance for a Superbowl is now. I wouldn't say we need to grab a vet that is a world beater but one that basically is just a solid vet. We had that before in DeMarcus Robinson and you see how he delivered in key moments. That's basically what I hope the Rams look for if they go the vet route. I think it'll be way more telling after training camp if the Rams go after a vet or not. I think this we'll rely on TEs (a notoriously hard position to play in the NFL) to make up for our WR depth is not a great plan at all. I think it's better to have those TEs plus the vet WR to give McVay even more multiple ways to attack defenses. Guess we'll get more answers as the season comes closer.
I dont see any way C.J. Daniels is not only rostered, but a Top 4 Wide Out.
Though I still believe that he could do more if given the opportunity, the idea of Whittington vs. the slot TEs is a good point.
I know I am late to the party here, but Nick Anderson never returned punts, so although I like Anderson and I believe he has a good chance to make the roster, it won't be because he returns punts.
It wasn't a full time gig, but Anderson returned a punt vs. North Carolina in the highlight package I watched. It wasn't conventional and it's a reach to say it would be his full time spot, but it's not impossible.
You are correct against North Carolina in November of 2025 he had one punt return of 13 yards. Was not their primary returner, but he did return one punt in his college career. He was in there because of a trick play.
Ok. I began to question if I saw the return on the highlights.
I like the kid quite a bit and although I am not sure if he could be a primary returner, obviously he offers quite a bit on special teams and concur that he will have an edge to make the roster. Plus he is a sure tackler plus in high school, he was the place kicker and punter.
