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Again via Florida Ram
ll breakdown & Analysis of the Cornerback & Safety position Battles for the 2016 Final 53 man roster.
(obviously subject to change on a weekly basis due to performance, injuries and player/upgrades: transactions)
RAMS 2015 PASSING DEFENSE
Yards Allowed Avg. 254... Rank 23rd
Yards per attempt... 7.1... Rank 15th
Total TD's Allowed... 21... Rank 7th
Completion %....... 66.8.. Rank 28th
Total Interceptions... 13... Rank 17th
THE CORNERBACKS (men on an island)
#22 CB TRUMAINE JOHNSON 6'2 204 lbs (Turns 27 on 01/01/2017)
Career... Total Tackles 206... Solo... 178... Int 15... Sacks 0
[profootballtalk.nbcsports.com] 03/01/2016
The Rams have made their decision between their free agent cornerbacks. And they picked the one with the agent at the moment. According to Albert Breer of the NFL Network, the Rams have chosen to use the franchise tag on Trumaine Johnson, guaranteeing him $13.952 million as soon as he signs. They can still do a long-term deal between now and July 15.
[www.profootballfocus.com]
Johnson has more than matched Jenkins in terms of production—both on a per-snap basis and overall. Johnson has never allowed more than two touchdowns in a season; Jenkins has allowed at least five in each of his four years in the league. On 116 fewer targets over their four years in the league, Johnson has 15 interceptions to Jenkins’ 10.
For the duration of his career, Jenkins’ passer rating allowed is only just shy of 100 (99.5); in the same time frame, Johnson’s passer rating allowed is 67.1.That mark is better than Josh Norman’s (72.1), Stephon Gilmore’s (84.1), and even Casey Hayward’s (70.2), the stars of the 2012 cornerback class.
When Jenkins was sidelined in Week 14 last season, it was Johnson who took center stage, earning the highest single-game grade of his career (+5.2), snagging an interception (a pick-six, no less) and a pass defense on five targets, while also cutting off Calvin Johnson on a double-move late in the fourth quarter, with the Rams protecting a two-score lead. If Los Angeles is looking for a corner to lead their secondary, Johnson’s career to date, and in particular, his performance since Week 9 of the 2014 season, suggest that he is the man to do it.
#33 CB EJ GAINES 5'10 195 lbs (Turns 24 04/01/2017)
Career... Total Tackles 70... Solo... 63... Int 2... Sacks 0
[www.turfshowtimesy.com]
Last year, Gaines suffered a Lisfranc injury in just the second practice of training camp well before any preseason action. And while Marcus Roberson filled in admirably as the fourth corner behind Jenkins, Johnson and Joyner, he hardly had the same level of success Gaines did a year prior as the starter on the outside.
So now in 2016 with Janoris Jenkins gone, many Rams fans are eager to see Gaines back on the field across from Tru as the Rams starting corner duo. Some are overeager to the point of relying on it.
Gaines was drafted by the Rams in the sixth round in 2014 out of Missouri. The 5-foot-10, 190 pound cornerback had a solid rookie campaign starting 15 games and collecting 70 tackles, two interceptions and 15 passes defended. Gaines was poised for a breakout season in 2015, but suffered a foot injury during the first week of training camp and never returned.
[theramswire.usatoday.com]
The Rams expect him back at full strength for 2016. No doubt he’ll be a vital part of the Rams’ secondary, and he’s up for it. Gaines showed flashes of a star corner in his rookie season and actually graded better than Trumaine Johnson and Janoris Jenkins in 2014, per Pro Football Focus. Gaines will be competing for the No 2 corner spot, versus the likes of Lamarcus Joyner, Marcus Roberson and newly-acquired Coty Sensabaugh.
#47 CB MARCUS ROBERSON 6'0 191 lbs (Turns 24 on 10/04/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 39... Solo... 34... Int 1... Sacks 0
[nflspinzone.com]
Johnson was injured making a tackle on wide receiver Tyler Lockett in the second quarter. The play itself was rather benign, and as he made his way off the field, I wondered if it was an arm injury, rather than a possible concussion. In the face of this loss, it put second-year cornerback Marcus Roberson into the starting spot opposite Janoris Jenkins.
All Roberson did was play 71 percent of snaps at cornerback, and finished with six tackles and one pass defended. What didn’t show up in the box score was Roberson did a great job keeping Lockett out of the game plan for a huge chunk of the game. Roberson declared for the draft after his junior year, but was inexplicably undrafted. The Rams recognized that although inconsistent, had an NFL-caliber set of skills.
Now, in his second season, Roberson is showing that teams were wrong in passing him up in the draft. As a draft analyst, I loved what I saw of Roberson on film, but lapses in concentration really hurt him. One play his footwork is solid, and the next sloppy. One play anticipation and play recognition happens in an instant, and the next he’s burned deep.
Some additional character red flags and less-than-exceptional triangle numbers spelled disaster for his draft stock. Putting all that aside, Roberson’s confidenceand energy were never missing in games, and he showed that on Sunday.
#20 CB/FS LARMARCUS JOYNER 5'8 184 lbs (Turns 26 on 11/27/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 112.. Solo... 89...Int 0... Sacks 3
[espn.go.com]
As the outrage about the late hit he put on Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater continued to build past Sunday and into Monday, St. Louis Rams cornerback Lamarcus Joyner did his best to stay oblivious to the anger. "I have been watching Discovery Channel and 'SpongeBob [Squarepants]' so I don’t know what’s going on," Joyner said. "But like I said, this past weekend was terrible for me. We had an incident out there, it wasn’t intentional, it was a hard feeling after the game. But it’s on to Chicago now. I poured my heart out. I gave my sorrows and my apologies, so it’s time to move forward."
[www.turfshowtimes.com]
When the Rams drafted him it was to be a sub-package player...not a guy to be on the field on every down. He was also brought in because in college he had a knack for producing turnovers and he was a pretty good blitzer. After watching Joyner playing throughout the season there is much to like.
He has the qualities that will make him a key member of the team. He is a sound tackler and is not afraid of making contact. He may struggle covering on deep routes, but as long as he keeps the receiver in front of him he is fine. He usually brings the ball-carrier down before he gains any additional yards.
[www.therams.com]
2014: Selected by the Rams in the second round (41st overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft (5/9/14). PRO: In his rookie season, saw action in 10 games...tallied 48 tackles (33 solo) with three passes defended and 1.0 sack for six yards. 2014 SEASON: Saw action in 10 games...tallied 48 tackles (33 solo) had three passes defended and a 1.0 sack for six yards... vs. Minnesota (9/7): Made his NFL debut...tallied two solo tackles...added one special teams tackle.
At Philadelphia (10/5): Recorded eight tackles (five solo)...registered two passes defensed...vs. Seattle (10/19): Saw action at cornerback...registered nine tackles (six solo)...added three assists...at Kansas City (10/26): Saw action at cornerback...recorded a single-game high 11 tackles (10 solo)...at San Francisco (11/2): Saw action at cornerback...garnered seven tackles (three solo)...had one quarterback pressure and one pass defensed...at Seattle (12/28): Saw action at cornerback...notched four tackles (three solo)...registered a 1.0 sack for six yards, first of his first career.
#24 CB COTY SENSABAUGH 5'11 189 lbs (Turns 28 on 11/15/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 169... Solo... 131... Int 2... Sacks 1
[espn.go.com]
EARTH CITY, Mo. -- The Los Angeles Rams made cornerback Coty Sensabaugh their first free-agent signing from outside the organization on Monday, bringing him into the fold on a three-year deal. Sensabaugh's new contract is worth just shy of $15 million but can go as high as $19 million with incentives. It includes $6.5 million guaranteed, with $5.5 million of that fully guaranteed at the time of signing.
[www.rotoworld.com]
Sensabaugh was forced to play major snaps on the outside last season, but should slot in as the nickel back between Trumaine Johnson and E.J. Gaines in Los Angeles. He's also an insurance policy on Gaines, who is returning from a Lisfranc injury. The Rams needed another starting-caliber corner after losing Janoris Jenkins to the Giants.
[www.latimes.com]
Sensabaugh, 27, started 15 games last season. Included in his two interceptions was a return of 2013 Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston's first career pass for a touchdown. The 5-foot-11, 189-pound Sensabaugh was selected by the Titans in the fourth round of the 2012 draft after playing at Clemson.
[www.christianpost.com]
His acquisition by the Rams is partly attributed to the team's defensive coordinator, Gregg Williams, who once served as the senior assistant defensive coach for the Titans back in 2013. ESPN noted that if he gives up the position to Gaines, he can be used to play nickelback – something he's familiar with when he played for Williams.
With the Titans, he was the regular nickelback while appearing in 59 games for the team in four seasons. But when Jason McCourty suffered a sports hernia, he was forced to take on a bigger role, to which he made the most of the opportunity.
#32 CB TROY HILL 5'10 182 lbs (Turns 25 on 08/29/2016)
BENGALS: Total Tackles.. 6... Solo... 5..... Int 0... Sacks 0
OREGON: Total Tackles 169.. Solo... 137... Int 4... Sacks 0
[www.cincyjungle.com]
The Cincinnati Bengals have signed cornerback Troy Hill from the practice squad to the 53-man roster, the team announced Saturday. In a corresponding move, the team waived cornerback Chris Lewis- Harris to make room for Hill. This isn't a surprising move since the Bengals are dealing with a banged-up secondary that features their top three corners dealing with injuries. In his three regular-season games with the Bengals, Hill registered just six total tackles (5 solo).
This is the first call-up for Hill, and the first Bengals practice squad member to join the roster in 2015. HIll was signed by the Bengals as an undrafted free agent out of Oregon following the 2015 draft. Hill finished his final college season with the Ducks by earning Second-Team Pac 12 All-Conference honors after notching 71 total tackles, four tackles for loss, 18 pass defenses, and one interception. Hill was quietly one of the better corners in college football, but off-field problems helped lead to him going undrafted.
The guys at Pro Football Focus were very high on Hill and praised the Bengals for signing him following the end of the 2015 NFL draft: With the way this cornerback class was bunched together, both myself and Sam Monson actually saw Hill as one of the five best available. Our sixth-highest graded player at the position, Hill allowed just 435 yards and a quarterback rating of 63.9 on passes thrown into his coverage.
His 11 pass breakups were tied for second in the class, and he added an interception for good measure. Our own Anthony Cosenza interviewed Hill during the NFLPA Bowl game following Ohio State's win during the National Championship game. Hill had a good showing for the Bengals in training camp and the preseason, but the Bengals ultimately felt better going with the more experience Lewis-Harris as that sixth and final corner on the 53-man roster.
[www.rotoworld.com]
Hill was the Ducks' nickel back his first three seasons before taking over as a starter in 2014, amassing three career interceptions, 6.5 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles. He ran 4.55 at the Combine with a 32 1/2-inch vertical and 10-foot broad jump. Slight of build and not overly athletic, Hill is an overachiever who won with effort and aggressiveness in college. Although he lacks top-end physical attributes, Hill's feisty playing mentality would translate well to the slot. He also has special teams value.
#35 CB/FS MICHAEL JORDAN 6'1 200 lbs (Estimated age 23 DOB n/a)
[www.rotoworld.com]
(Had 16 career INT's in college)2015 NFL Media draft analyst Chad Reuter. Coming into this year, he'd already posted 138 tackles, 11 interceptions and 25 pass breakups across his first three years. He's a two-time first-team All-MIAA pick.
[www.nfl.com]
STRENGTHS: Has NFL height, weight and length. His ball skills will force teams to take notice. Former high school receiver who has soft, sure hands and finds his way to the ball at a high rate. Plays with decisive break on the ball from his pedal. Loves to undercut routes out of breaks and ruin the quarterback's day. Instinctive with a natural feel from man-off and zone coverage.
WEAKNESSES: Tape doesn't show player with ability to carry long speed. Jump in competition will be difficult challenge early on. Might need to re@#$%& angles to the ball against NFL arms and wide receiver speed. Big, but not very physical. Technique is very raw. Will declare early from press causing stall when release changes direction.
BOTTOM LINE: Jordan's size, ball skills and consistency of production is going to garner attention from NFL traits on Day 3. While he shows decent hips and feet in man coverage, he may not have the recovery speed to make a living in that kind of scheme. Jordan has the instincts and ball skills to challenge for a roster spot for a zone cover team and could be an interesting consideration at safety if a team believes he is tough enough as a tackler.
[www.stltoday.com]
After he redshirted in 2011, he beat out a senior and a junior to start, then won the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association’s freshman of the year award. He made first team all-conference every season after that. He recently became the first Missouri Western player to earn back-to-back All-America honors from the American Football Coaches Association. His athletic ability and ball-hawking skills have always been there. The finer points, like his footwork, have improved.
His physicality increased with his strength. His coaches shifted defenses, from a 4-3 to a 3-4, and toggled between zone and man coverage. Jordan, usually a cornerback, sometimes a safety, just kept making plays. “At times, I couldn’t be beat,” he said. His 16 career interceptions are tied for second-most in school history. His five interceptions and 22 passes defended as a senior ranked second nationally after the regular season.
“I’m addicted to getting interceptions,” he said. One game in his sophomore season stands out, not because of a pick, or even a win. Missouri Western lost to Pittsburg State 34-14 on Oct. 26, 2013. But Jordan held a 5-foot-11 speedster named John Brown to four catches for 48 yards. Brown, Pitt State’s all-time leader in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, became a third-round pick of the Arizona Cardinals in 2014. Jordan said his mouth dropped when he learned of the selection. It was more evidence he could make it. VIDEO: (2015 Highlights) [www.youtube.com]
#41 CB/FS JABRIEL WASHINGTON 5'11 185 lbs (Estimated age 23 DOB n/a)
ALABAMA... Total Tackles 26... Solo... 16... Int 2... Sacks 0
SENIOR (2015): Provided depth at the defensive back position and worked on special teams during his senior season. Missed the first five games due to a knee injury suffered before the season opener. Saw his first action against Arkansas, but did not record any stats in the first game back since injury ... recorded a tackle on kickoff coverage, his first stop of the season, at Texas A&M.
Notched one more tackle on kickoff coverage against Tennessee. Mississippi State: Had his best game since returning from injury, recording three tackles. Charleston Southern: Collected his first interception of the season and added one tackle on his senior day ... saw significant time in the secondary against the Buccaneers.
JUNIOR (2014): Appeared in 13 games... Had 17 tackles, two pass breakups and one interception. Made the first start of his career against Southern Miss ... West Virginia: Recorded one tackle versus the Mountaineers. FAU: Had one tackle and a pass breakup. Southern Miss: Made two tackles in his first start. Florida: Hauled in his first career interception in the win over the Gators.
THE SAFETIES (last line of defense)
#25 SS T.J. MCDONALD (jr) 6'2 219 lbs (Turns 26 on 01/26/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 221... Solo... 168... Int 2... Sacks 4
[www.rotoworld.com] Wed, Dec 9, 2015
Rams placed SS T.J. McDonald (shoulder surgery) on injured reserve, ending his season. It's another blow to a Rams secondary already without Trumaine Johnson (thigh) and Janoris Jenkins (concussion). McDonald had 63 tackles and a sack prior to going down, grading as PFF's No. 32 safety against the run. Maurice Alexander is McDonald's backup.
May 10, 2015 TMZ Sports reports Rams SS T.J. McDonald was arrested for DUI early Tuesday morning. McDonald allegedly crashed into a parked car and waited for police to arrive to the scene where he was then taken into custody. McDonald wasn't arrested for alcohol abuse, but it's believed he was on some sort of medication that had him acting out of the ordinary. He was later released on his own recognizance. McDonald is now subject to a suspension.
[twitter.com]
Though he struggled early in 2014, no safety had a higher grade from Weeks 9 to 17 than Rams safety. T.J. McDonald. He received the highest PFF grade of any safety in football between Weeks 9 and 17. He still finished just 41st out of 87 qualifiers thanks to a poor first half. McDonald's fast improvement is encouraging but the Rams need their third-year strong safety to play with more consistency. McDonald finished with a negative grade overall in pass coverage but was excellent against the run.
June 13, 2013 Rams signed third-round SS T.J. McDonald to a four-year contract. McDonald, the No. 71 overall pick, is penciled in as the Rams' starting strong safety, but his cover skills are suspect. McDonald possesses a boat load of athleticism, but he took a lot of bad angles at USC. McDonald (6-foot-2 1/2, 219) is the latest in a long line of big, athletic USC safeties with suspect cover skills. T.J. started 36 college games, recording eight interceptions and 12 tackles for loss. He ran 4.59 at the Combine with a 40-inch vertical and 10-foot-11 broad jump.
#31 SS MAURICE ALEXANDER 6'1 229 lbs (Turns 26 on 02/16/2017)
Career... Total Tackles 43... Solo... 34... Int 0... Sacks 2
[www.rotoworld.com]
April 2, 2016: Rams coach Jeff Fisher said Maurice Alexander is an option at free safety following the departure of Rodney McLeod in free agency. A fourth-round pick in 2014, Alexander struggled in five starts last season. Cody Davis and Christian Bryant are the other in-house options, and the Rams could look to the draft for help. T.J McDonald is locked in at strong safety.
[www.stltoday.com]
“His first start at home this weekend. But he’s played a lot of football for us already this year,” Fisher said. “He’s continued to progress and we’re really proud of where he’s ended up.” Alexander has gotten a little bit of seasoning this year. He was in for a handful of plays at safety against Cleveland, San Francisco, Chicago, Baltimore, and Cincinnati. He was in for every defensive play, 72 of them, in the start at Minnesota.
And with injuries to cornerback Janoris Jenkins and McDonald last week against Arizona, Alexander was on the field for 26 defensive plays. His season totals are eight tackles, two sacks, and one quarterback hit. Those two sacks attest to his pass-rushing skills. He played some defensive end in college, but mainly outside linebacker before finally moving back to safety.
[www.rotoworld.com]
June 12, 2014: Rams signed No. 110 overall pick S Maurice Alexander to a four-year contract. More of an in-the-box safety than center fielder, Alexander (6-foot-1, 220 pounds) played linebacker as a sophomore, and does his best work close to the line. He does, however, offer plus athleticism with a 38-inch vertical and 4.54 forty. He'll begin his Rams career on special teams.
#38 FS CODY DAVIS 6'1 204 lbs (Turns 27 on 06/06/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 23... Solo... 18... Int 0... Sacks 0 (Had 2nd most Special Teams Tackles with 10 in 2015)
[profootballtalk.nbcsports.com]
Rams re-sign Brian Quick, Tim Barnes, Cody Davis Posted by Josh Alper: On March 9, 2016: Barnes and Davis both signed two-year deals. Davis has seen action in 43 games over the last three years for the Rams and most of it has come on special teams, which will likely be the case again in 2016.
[en.wikipedia.org]
Davis played collegiately at Texas Tech. As a senior in 2012, Davis was a 1st Team Capital One Academic All-American and was a Second-team All-Big 12 selection for the second consecutive season after making 84 solo tackles and 101 total tackles. He finished his Texas Tech career with 49 starts, including 22 consecutive starts at safety.
As a junior in 2011 he was Academic All-Big 12 (1st Team) and led team in tackles (93) while making 72 solo tackles and 21 assisted tackles. In 2010 he was All-Big 12 (Honorable Mention) and an Academic All-Big 12 (1st Team) Davis made 87 total tackles and played in 13 games (13 starts) and was second on the team with 87 total tackles while tying for the team lead (Bront Bird) with 68 solo tackles.
#24 SS CHRISTIAN BRYANT 5'10 192 lbs (Turns 25 on 3/21/2017)
Career... Total Tackles 3... Solo... 2... Int 0... Sacks 0
[archauthority.com]
St. Louis Rams Release Brandon McGee, Promote Christian Bryant: Bryant, an undersized safety, was a seventh-rounder of the Rams last season and will be making his first appearance on the active roster after a year-plus on the practice squad. Bryant, who was a noted special-teamer coming out of Ohio State, has flashed skills that indicated he could hang with NFLers during both of his preseasons to date, but with the exceptional depth that the Rams already possess at the safety position, there hadn’t really been space on the roster for him until now.
[www.scout.com]
10/14/2015: Christian Bryant will make his NFL regular-season debut on Sunday, approximately a year and a half after the St. Louis Rams drafted him. He is expected to make his NFL regular-season debut for the St. Louis Rams against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, more than a year after the team drafted him.
“I’m definitely excited for the opportunity,” Bryant said on Friday. “It’s a huge opportunity for me. I’m looking forward to it.” Bryant was one of the Rams’ four picks in the seventh round in the 2014 Draft. Fisher talked on Friday about how far Bryant has come. “Christian was their Defensive MVP before he got hurt there at Ohio State,” he said.
“On the trip we made there to look at the offensive lineman, I got a chance to visit with (Ohio State coach) Urban (Meyer) and talk to him a little bit about him. So, we brought him in. “It was a long rehab, but he had a great offseason here. He’s one of those classic examples of what a difference a year makes. So, had a really good preseason. I’ve got all the confidence in the world that he’ll go out there and do the right things.”
It has been almost two years since Bryant took the field in a game that mattered. He’ll appreciate the opportunity, knowing how far he has come since then and how much he has worked to get to this moment. “I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “I’m looking forward to getting on the field finally, playing some real football on Sundays.”
#43 FS BRIAN RANDOLPH 6'0 205 lbs (Turns 24 on 10/20 2016)
TENN: Career... Total Tackles 306... Solo... 217... Int 6... Sacks 0
[bleacherreport.com] March 30, 2016
Tennesee PRO DAY: Randolph showed out in the weight room and in the 40-yard dash, bench-pressing225 pounds 31 times, which is ridiculous for a defensive back. That bench number would have put him tied for seventh overall in this year's NFL Scouting Combine, regardless of position, per NFL.com. He also posted a 4.47 and 4.42 40-yard dash in his two runs. UT's official site had that second time at a 4.4 flat.
The four-year starter at UT told the media afterward that he called his shot that he'd stand out, per VolQuest's Rob Lewis and Brent Hubbs: With those gaudy numbers, Randolph definitely helped himself. He could slide onto somebody's big board now, despite getting spurned from the combine. Unlike a few of the Vols eligible for this draft, he has the on-field resume to prove his potential.
I told you all I was going to get that 4.4 and do 30 reps and that's what happened. I have never lacked speed or strength. I have just lacked hype. I don't like to talk too much till it's time. I gave you a little preview yesterday and had to back it up today. They want to see speed. I tried to tell them. I don't know where they were getting numbers from. It's nonsense. I was hearing stuff like 4.7. Golly, I didn't run a 4.7 in fifth grade.
I don't know how I'm going to do it now. I'm glad I got to prove that wrong. I was having fun today. I didn't feel any pressure. I was suppose to run a 4.7. I don't think could get much worse than that. I probably could have backpedaled 4.7. There was no pressure. It was just fun.
[www.cbssports.com]
PLAYER OVERVIEW: While Tennessee's secondary was leaky, as a whole, Randolph proved a standout, leading the team with four interceptions while recording another three pass breakups and making 75 stops, 50 of them solos. Randolph started all 12 games at strong safety in 2013, a year after tearing the ACL in his right knee just three games into his sophomore campaign.
Randolph's injury in 2012 was a critical loss to Tennessee's secondary as the talented defender was coming off a freshman campaign in which he started eight games (and played in all 12) and posted 55 tackles while splitting duty between free safety and nickel.
STRENGTHS: Randolph is an athletic, aggressive safety with good open-field tackling skills. He sports a compact frame with good overall musculature and is reportedly "noticeably" bigger in his upper body after his year in the weight room. He shows good body control and vision to avoid would-be blockers in the open field and is generally a reliable wrap-up tackler. He's shown good hands when interception opportunities are there, as well as a flair for big plays in clutch situations.
WEAKNESSES: Randolph doesn't possess elite straight-line speed and is high in his back pedal but he deciphers the action quickly and closes on the ball aggressively. Randolph's medical will play an important part in his ultimate grade. Besides the ACL tear, he struggled a bit last season with recurring shoulder issues, including stingers. Coach Butch Jones joked that Randolph was 180 pounds last year and the safety made it a point to bulk up in the offseason.
Randolph claims he's gained 15 pounds since last year and the Vols' official website lists him at a solid 209 pounds. Randolph was overshadowed by A.J. Johnson a year ago and that may occur again in 2014. If the redshirt junior elects to give up his final year of eligibility, however, he could "surprise" as the Vols' top NFL prospect in 2015. Rob Rang (8/26/14)
YOUTUBE: (Career Highlights)
[www.youtube.com] (8 mins)
[www.youtube.com] (4 mins)
#37 FS JORDAN LOMAX 5'10 205 lbs (Turns 23 on 10/13/2016)
IOWA... Total Tackles 201... Solo... 99... Int 2... Sacks 0
[www.nfl.com]
OVERVIEW: After three years of waiting his turn to get on the field, including a lost 2012 season due to a spring shoulder injury and 2013 season where he missed four more games due to injury, Lomax finally earned the starting nod in 2014 and stayed healthy. He put forth an honorable mention All-Big Ten effort at safety (he started his Iowa career at cornerback), making 92 tackles, intercepting a pass and breaking up six others.
Lomax followed that up with a third team all-conference campaign (96 tackles, one interception, six pass break-ups), where he used his compact build and athleticism to patrol the secondary for the Hawkeyes. PRO DAY RESULTS: 40-yard dash: 4.62 seconds... Vertical: 38 1/2 inches... Broad jump: 10 feet, 1 inch... 3-cone: 6.82 seconds
STRENGTHS: Aggressive, willing demeanor in run support. Loves to hit. Will get his licks in when he gets a chance. Might offer kickoff coverage value. Closes hard on receivers drifting into his area for the catch and can land a disruptive strike to jar ball free. Former cornerback with enough twitch to slam on brakes from backpedal and burst downhill. Hard worker in the classroom and weight room and noted team leader.
WEAKNESSES: Stout but short safety with small hands. Carries longer torso on shorter legs. Hesitates to jump routes on crossers and slants in front of him. Lacks playmaking instincts and length. Had just two interceptions in two years as starter. More buildup acceleration than short area burst in coverage.
Great hitter, but average finisher. Questionable angles and poor space adjustment led to 29 broken or missed tackles as a starter. DRAFT PROJECTION Round 7 or priority free agent: SOURCES TELL US "He's short but he's pretty well built so that shouldn't kill his chances.
He's not a reliable tackler in space and if he doesn't run really well he won't drafted. He'll be in a camp though." -- NFC East area scout.. BOTTOM LINE Physical hitter who plays with desire and urgency, but lacks the physical traits and downhill cover skills teams covet at the position. Comparisons to Bob Sanders by locals is understandable due to his frame and physicality, but Lomax lacks the juice and top-end speed that Sanders possessed.
YOUTUBE (Highlights)
[www.youtube.com] (4 mins)
#36 SS ROHAN GAINES 5'11 195 lbs (Turns 24 on 04/01 2017)
ARKANSAS... Total Tackles 234... Solo... 137... Int 2... Sacks 0
Senior (2015) Participated and started in all 13 games … Ranked third on the team in tackles and first among defensive backs (67) … 44 of his 67 tackles were solo stops … Had 1.5 tackles for loss, one interception and one pass breakup … Had at least four tackles in 10 games, including each of his last four contests.
Was the most experienced player on the Razorback defense with 47 games played and 39 career starts … vs. Texas Tech (Sept. 9): Had 10 tackles, marking the third double-digit performance of his career … vs. UT Martin (Oct. 31): Made his second career interception, which came in the first quarter on the Skyhawks’ first possession of the game … Earned preseason All-SEC third team honors from coaches.
Junior (2014) Started in 10 of 12 games participated in … Posted 59 tackles, 1.0 for loss, on the season … Added one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and five pass breakups … at No. 6 Auburn (Aug. 30): Registered eight tackles, seven solo in the season-opener.
At No. 1 Mississippi State (Nov. 1): Racked-up seven tackles and a pass breakup against the top-ranked Bulldogs … vs. No. 8 Ole Miss (Nov. 22): Returned an interception 100 yards for a touchdown, tying for the longest interception return in school history, in Arkansas’ 30-0 shutout over Ole Miss.
At No. 17 Missouri (Nov. 28): Posted seven tackles and recovered a fumble. Sophomore (2013) Played in 10 games with five starts and recorded 33 tackles, 1.0 for loss, one fumble recovery, two quarterback hurries and one pass breakup … vs. No. 14 South Carolina (Oct. 12): Made four tackles and two quarterback hurries … vs. Mississippi State (Nov. 1): Totaled a season-high nine tackles and added one fumble recovery … at Ole Miss (Nov. 9): Made five tackles, with 0.5 for loss.
YOUTUBE: (Hightlights)
[www.youtube.com]
CORNERBACK- TIER Groupings for the 2016 53 Man Roster
CB] T.JOHNSON 100% Lock to make 53.(Pressure is on the franchise tagged CB to lockdown #1 WR's)
CB] E.GAINES 100% Lock to make 53.(2014 Sleeper rookie played great but lost his 2015 season to foot injury)
CB] L.JOYNER 100% Lock to make 53.(Little big man utility nickel corner is very valuable and going no where)
CB] M.ROBERSON 100% Lock to make 53.(Played well enough in reserve for 2 seasons & playing for a new contract?)
CB] C.SENSABAUGH 90% Lock to make 53.(Slot corner that has played some outside just signed 3 yr F/A contract)
CB] Troy.HILL 50% Lock to make 53.(2nd yr UDFA goes from Bengals to Rams. longshot likely a P.Squad spot)
CB] M.JORDAN 70% Lock to make P.Squad.(Small school tall CB/FS will try to show NFL isnt too big for him)
CB] J.Washington 45% Lock to make P.Squad.(SEC Alabama background but only played their in a reserve role)
SAFETY- TIER Groupings for the 2016 53 Man Roster
SS) T.J.McDonald (jr) 100% Lock to make 53.(His staring position is waiting and he needs to stay healthy)
SS) M.ALEXANDER 100% Lock to make 53.(Fisher 3rd year safety project is hoping for a breakout year)
FS) C.DAVIS 90% Lock to make 53.(A seasoned vet with special teams value and knows the system well)
SS) C.BRYANT 85% Lock to make 53.(3rd year small hard hitting SS has played some reserve and special teams)
FS) B.Randolph 60% Lock to make 53.(UDFA athletic FS with good numbers will make his case as an underdog)
FS) J.LOMAX 60% Lock to make 53.(UDFA from Iowa in the mix with Rams thin depth at free safety)
SS) R.GAINES 55% Lock to make P.Squad.(137 solo tackles at SEC Arkansas will get preseason snaps)
SUMMARY: These are just late May roster projections and obviously there is plenty of Roster movement and turnover that can happen to change things in a hurry. Any opinions from the Herd members is always appreciated. As you all know the Secondary is a very important unit for the defense to keep today's Pass happy NFL offenses from launching an all out air attack. (How many CB/Safeties will make the 53?) 9-10? or the P.Squad 1-3?
As we all know, Snead and Fisher will turn over the bottom of the roster at the drop of a hat this time of year. There is only 10 practice squad spots available so more than 2 of these defensive backs making the PS is probably unlikely.
As June, July and August anxiously get closer, our Herd board members always give great insight, theories, depth chart analysis and just plain old good clever Rams subjects to chat about.
Thanks for observing and I welcome your feedback, Florida
ll breakdown & Analysis of the Cornerback & Safety position Battles for the 2016 Final 53 man roster.
(obviously subject to change on a weekly basis due to performance, injuries and player/upgrades: transactions)
RAMS 2015 PASSING DEFENSE
Yards Allowed Avg. 254... Rank 23rd
Yards per attempt... 7.1... Rank 15th
Total TD's Allowed... 21... Rank 7th
Completion %....... 66.8.. Rank 28th
Total Interceptions... 13... Rank 17th
THE CORNERBACKS (men on an island)
#22 CB TRUMAINE JOHNSON 6'2 204 lbs (Turns 27 on 01/01/2017)
Career... Total Tackles 206... Solo... 178... Int 15... Sacks 0
[profootballtalk.nbcsports.com] 03/01/2016
The Rams have made their decision between their free agent cornerbacks. And they picked the one with the agent at the moment. According to Albert Breer of the NFL Network, the Rams have chosen to use the franchise tag on Trumaine Johnson, guaranteeing him $13.952 million as soon as he signs. They can still do a long-term deal between now and July 15.
[www.profootballfocus.com]
Johnson has more than matched Jenkins in terms of production—both on a per-snap basis and overall. Johnson has never allowed more than two touchdowns in a season; Jenkins has allowed at least five in each of his four years in the league. On 116 fewer targets over their four years in the league, Johnson has 15 interceptions to Jenkins’ 10.
For the duration of his career, Jenkins’ passer rating allowed is only just shy of 100 (99.5); in the same time frame, Johnson’s passer rating allowed is 67.1.That mark is better than Josh Norman’s (72.1), Stephon Gilmore’s (84.1), and even Casey Hayward’s (70.2), the stars of the 2012 cornerback class.
When Jenkins was sidelined in Week 14 last season, it was Johnson who took center stage, earning the highest single-game grade of his career (+5.2), snagging an interception (a pick-six, no less) and a pass defense on five targets, while also cutting off Calvin Johnson on a double-move late in the fourth quarter, with the Rams protecting a two-score lead. If Los Angeles is looking for a corner to lead their secondary, Johnson’s career to date, and in particular, his performance since Week 9 of the 2014 season, suggest that he is the man to do it.
#33 CB EJ GAINES 5'10 195 lbs (Turns 24 04/01/2017)
Career... Total Tackles 70... Solo... 63... Int 2... Sacks 0
[www.turfshowtimesy.com]
Last year, Gaines suffered a Lisfranc injury in just the second practice of training camp well before any preseason action. And while Marcus Roberson filled in admirably as the fourth corner behind Jenkins, Johnson and Joyner, he hardly had the same level of success Gaines did a year prior as the starter on the outside.
So now in 2016 with Janoris Jenkins gone, many Rams fans are eager to see Gaines back on the field across from Tru as the Rams starting corner duo. Some are overeager to the point of relying on it.
Gaines was drafted by the Rams in the sixth round in 2014 out of Missouri. The 5-foot-10, 190 pound cornerback had a solid rookie campaign starting 15 games and collecting 70 tackles, two interceptions and 15 passes defended. Gaines was poised for a breakout season in 2015, but suffered a foot injury during the first week of training camp and never returned.
[theramswire.usatoday.com]
The Rams expect him back at full strength for 2016. No doubt he’ll be a vital part of the Rams’ secondary, and he’s up for it. Gaines showed flashes of a star corner in his rookie season and actually graded better than Trumaine Johnson and Janoris Jenkins in 2014, per Pro Football Focus. Gaines will be competing for the No 2 corner spot, versus the likes of Lamarcus Joyner, Marcus Roberson and newly-acquired Coty Sensabaugh.
#47 CB MARCUS ROBERSON 6'0 191 lbs (Turns 24 on 10/04/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 39... Solo... 34... Int 1... Sacks 0
[nflspinzone.com]
Johnson was injured making a tackle on wide receiver Tyler Lockett in the second quarter. The play itself was rather benign, and as he made his way off the field, I wondered if it was an arm injury, rather than a possible concussion. In the face of this loss, it put second-year cornerback Marcus Roberson into the starting spot opposite Janoris Jenkins.
All Roberson did was play 71 percent of snaps at cornerback, and finished with six tackles and one pass defended. What didn’t show up in the box score was Roberson did a great job keeping Lockett out of the game plan for a huge chunk of the game. Roberson declared for the draft after his junior year, but was inexplicably undrafted. The Rams recognized that although inconsistent, had an NFL-caliber set of skills.
Now, in his second season, Roberson is showing that teams were wrong in passing him up in the draft. As a draft analyst, I loved what I saw of Roberson on film, but lapses in concentration really hurt him. One play his footwork is solid, and the next sloppy. One play anticipation and play recognition happens in an instant, and the next he’s burned deep.
Some additional character red flags and less-than-exceptional triangle numbers spelled disaster for his draft stock. Putting all that aside, Roberson’s confidenceand energy were never missing in games, and he showed that on Sunday.
#20 CB/FS LARMARCUS JOYNER 5'8 184 lbs (Turns 26 on 11/27/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 112.. Solo... 89...Int 0... Sacks 3
[espn.go.com]
As the outrage about the late hit he put on Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater continued to build past Sunday and into Monday, St. Louis Rams cornerback Lamarcus Joyner did his best to stay oblivious to the anger. "I have been watching Discovery Channel and 'SpongeBob [Squarepants]' so I don’t know what’s going on," Joyner said. "But like I said, this past weekend was terrible for me. We had an incident out there, it wasn’t intentional, it was a hard feeling after the game. But it’s on to Chicago now. I poured my heart out. I gave my sorrows and my apologies, so it’s time to move forward."
[www.turfshowtimes.com]
When the Rams drafted him it was to be a sub-package player...not a guy to be on the field on every down. He was also brought in because in college he had a knack for producing turnovers and he was a pretty good blitzer. After watching Joyner playing throughout the season there is much to like.
He has the qualities that will make him a key member of the team. He is a sound tackler and is not afraid of making contact. He may struggle covering on deep routes, but as long as he keeps the receiver in front of him he is fine. He usually brings the ball-carrier down before he gains any additional yards.
[www.therams.com]
2014: Selected by the Rams in the second round (41st overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft (5/9/14). PRO: In his rookie season, saw action in 10 games...tallied 48 tackles (33 solo) with three passes defended and 1.0 sack for six yards. 2014 SEASON: Saw action in 10 games...tallied 48 tackles (33 solo) had three passes defended and a 1.0 sack for six yards... vs. Minnesota (9/7): Made his NFL debut...tallied two solo tackles...added one special teams tackle.
At Philadelphia (10/5): Recorded eight tackles (five solo)...registered two passes defensed...vs. Seattle (10/19): Saw action at cornerback...registered nine tackles (six solo)...added three assists...at Kansas City (10/26): Saw action at cornerback...recorded a single-game high 11 tackles (10 solo)...at San Francisco (11/2): Saw action at cornerback...garnered seven tackles (three solo)...had one quarterback pressure and one pass defensed...at Seattle (12/28): Saw action at cornerback...notched four tackles (three solo)...registered a 1.0 sack for six yards, first of his first career.
#24 CB COTY SENSABAUGH 5'11 189 lbs (Turns 28 on 11/15/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 169... Solo... 131... Int 2... Sacks 1
[espn.go.com]
EARTH CITY, Mo. -- The Los Angeles Rams made cornerback Coty Sensabaugh their first free-agent signing from outside the organization on Monday, bringing him into the fold on a three-year deal. Sensabaugh's new contract is worth just shy of $15 million but can go as high as $19 million with incentives. It includes $6.5 million guaranteed, with $5.5 million of that fully guaranteed at the time of signing.
[www.rotoworld.com]
Sensabaugh was forced to play major snaps on the outside last season, but should slot in as the nickel back between Trumaine Johnson and E.J. Gaines in Los Angeles. He's also an insurance policy on Gaines, who is returning from a Lisfranc injury. The Rams needed another starting-caliber corner after losing Janoris Jenkins to the Giants.
[www.latimes.com]
Sensabaugh, 27, started 15 games last season. Included in his two interceptions was a return of 2013 Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston's first career pass for a touchdown. The 5-foot-11, 189-pound Sensabaugh was selected by the Titans in the fourth round of the 2012 draft after playing at Clemson.
[www.christianpost.com]
His acquisition by the Rams is partly attributed to the team's defensive coordinator, Gregg Williams, who once served as the senior assistant defensive coach for the Titans back in 2013. ESPN noted that if he gives up the position to Gaines, he can be used to play nickelback – something he's familiar with when he played for Williams.
With the Titans, he was the regular nickelback while appearing in 59 games for the team in four seasons. But when Jason McCourty suffered a sports hernia, he was forced to take on a bigger role, to which he made the most of the opportunity.
#32 CB TROY HILL 5'10 182 lbs (Turns 25 on 08/29/2016)
BENGALS: Total Tackles.. 6... Solo... 5..... Int 0... Sacks 0
OREGON: Total Tackles 169.. Solo... 137... Int 4... Sacks 0
[www.cincyjungle.com]
The Cincinnati Bengals have signed cornerback Troy Hill from the practice squad to the 53-man roster, the team announced Saturday. In a corresponding move, the team waived cornerback Chris Lewis- Harris to make room for Hill. This isn't a surprising move since the Bengals are dealing with a banged-up secondary that features their top three corners dealing with injuries. In his three regular-season games with the Bengals, Hill registered just six total tackles (5 solo).
This is the first call-up for Hill, and the first Bengals practice squad member to join the roster in 2015. HIll was signed by the Bengals as an undrafted free agent out of Oregon following the 2015 draft. Hill finished his final college season with the Ducks by earning Second-Team Pac 12 All-Conference honors after notching 71 total tackles, four tackles for loss, 18 pass defenses, and one interception. Hill was quietly one of the better corners in college football, but off-field problems helped lead to him going undrafted.
The guys at Pro Football Focus were very high on Hill and praised the Bengals for signing him following the end of the 2015 NFL draft: With the way this cornerback class was bunched together, both myself and Sam Monson actually saw Hill as one of the five best available. Our sixth-highest graded player at the position, Hill allowed just 435 yards and a quarterback rating of 63.9 on passes thrown into his coverage.
His 11 pass breakups were tied for second in the class, and he added an interception for good measure. Our own Anthony Cosenza interviewed Hill during the NFLPA Bowl game following Ohio State's win during the National Championship game. Hill had a good showing for the Bengals in training camp and the preseason, but the Bengals ultimately felt better going with the more experience Lewis-Harris as that sixth and final corner on the 53-man roster.
[www.rotoworld.com]
Hill was the Ducks' nickel back his first three seasons before taking over as a starter in 2014, amassing three career interceptions, 6.5 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles. He ran 4.55 at the Combine with a 32 1/2-inch vertical and 10-foot broad jump. Slight of build and not overly athletic, Hill is an overachiever who won with effort and aggressiveness in college. Although he lacks top-end physical attributes, Hill's feisty playing mentality would translate well to the slot. He also has special teams value.
#35 CB/FS MICHAEL JORDAN 6'1 200 lbs (Estimated age 23 DOB n/a)
[www.rotoworld.com]
(Had 16 career INT's in college)2015 NFL Media draft analyst Chad Reuter. Coming into this year, he'd already posted 138 tackles, 11 interceptions and 25 pass breakups across his first three years. He's a two-time first-team All-MIAA pick.
[www.nfl.com]
STRENGTHS: Has NFL height, weight and length. His ball skills will force teams to take notice. Former high school receiver who has soft, sure hands and finds his way to the ball at a high rate. Plays with decisive break on the ball from his pedal. Loves to undercut routes out of breaks and ruin the quarterback's day. Instinctive with a natural feel from man-off and zone coverage.
WEAKNESSES: Tape doesn't show player with ability to carry long speed. Jump in competition will be difficult challenge early on. Might need to re@#$%& angles to the ball against NFL arms and wide receiver speed. Big, but not very physical. Technique is very raw. Will declare early from press causing stall when release changes direction.
BOTTOM LINE: Jordan's size, ball skills and consistency of production is going to garner attention from NFL traits on Day 3. While he shows decent hips and feet in man coverage, he may not have the recovery speed to make a living in that kind of scheme. Jordan has the instincts and ball skills to challenge for a roster spot for a zone cover team and could be an interesting consideration at safety if a team believes he is tough enough as a tackler.
[www.stltoday.com]
After he redshirted in 2011, he beat out a senior and a junior to start, then won the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association’s freshman of the year award. He made first team all-conference every season after that. He recently became the first Missouri Western player to earn back-to-back All-America honors from the American Football Coaches Association. His athletic ability and ball-hawking skills have always been there. The finer points, like his footwork, have improved.
His physicality increased with his strength. His coaches shifted defenses, from a 4-3 to a 3-4, and toggled between zone and man coverage. Jordan, usually a cornerback, sometimes a safety, just kept making plays. “At times, I couldn’t be beat,” he said. His 16 career interceptions are tied for second-most in school history. His five interceptions and 22 passes defended as a senior ranked second nationally after the regular season.
“I’m addicted to getting interceptions,” he said. One game in his sophomore season stands out, not because of a pick, or even a win. Missouri Western lost to Pittsburg State 34-14 on Oct. 26, 2013. But Jordan held a 5-foot-11 speedster named John Brown to four catches for 48 yards. Brown, Pitt State’s all-time leader in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, became a third-round pick of the Arizona Cardinals in 2014. Jordan said his mouth dropped when he learned of the selection. It was more evidence he could make it. VIDEO: (2015 Highlights) [www.youtube.com]
#41 CB/FS JABRIEL WASHINGTON 5'11 185 lbs (Estimated age 23 DOB n/a)
ALABAMA... Total Tackles 26... Solo... 16... Int 2... Sacks 0
SENIOR (2015): Provided depth at the defensive back position and worked on special teams during his senior season. Missed the first five games due to a knee injury suffered before the season opener. Saw his first action against Arkansas, but did not record any stats in the first game back since injury ... recorded a tackle on kickoff coverage, his first stop of the season, at Texas A&M.
Notched one more tackle on kickoff coverage against Tennessee. Mississippi State: Had his best game since returning from injury, recording three tackles. Charleston Southern: Collected his first interception of the season and added one tackle on his senior day ... saw significant time in the secondary against the Buccaneers.
JUNIOR (2014): Appeared in 13 games... Had 17 tackles, two pass breakups and one interception. Made the first start of his career against Southern Miss ... West Virginia: Recorded one tackle versus the Mountaineers. FAU: Had one tackle and a pass breakup. Southern Miss: Made two tackles in his first start. Florida: Hauled in his first career interception in the win over the Gators.
THE SAFETIES (last line of defense)
#25 SS T.J. MCDONALD (jr) 6'2 219 lbs (Turns 26 on 01/26/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 221... Solo... 168... Int 2... Sacks 4
[www.rotoworld.com] Wed, Dec 9, 2015
Rams placed SS T.J. McDonald (shoulder surgery) on injured reserve, ending his season. It's another blow to a Rams secondary already without Trumaine Johnson (thigh) and Janoris Jenkins (concussion). McDonald had 63 tackles and a sack prior to going down, grading as PFF's No. 32 safety against the run. Maurice Alexander is McDonald's backup.
May 10, 2015 TMZ Sports reports Rams SS T.J. McDonald was arrested for DUI early Tuesday morning. McDonald allegedly crashed into a parked car and waited for police to arrive to the scene where he was then taken into custody. McDonald wasn't arrested for alcohol abuse, but it's believed he was on some sort of medication that had him acting out of the ordinary. He was later released on his own recognizance. McDonald is now subject to a suspension.
[twitter.com]
Though he struggled early in 2014, no safety had a higher grade from Weeks 9 to 17 than Rams safety. T.J. McDonald. He received the highest PFF grade of any safety in football between Weeks 9 and 17. He still finished just 41st out of 87 qualifiers thanks to a poor first half. McDonald's fast improvement is encouraging but the Rams need their third-year strong safety to play with more consistency. McDonald finished with a negative grade overall in pass coverage but was excellent against the run.
June 13, 2013 Rams signed third-round SS T.J. McDonald to a four-year contract. McDonald, the No. 71 overall pick, is penciled in as the Rams' starting strong safety, but his cover skills are suspect. McDonald possesses a boat load of athleticism, but he took a lot of bad angles at USC. McDonald (6-foot-2 1/2, 219) is the latest in a long line of big, athletic USC safeties with suspect cover skills. T.J. started 36 college games, recording eight interceptions and 12 tackles for loss. He ran 4.59 at the Combine with a 40-inch vertical and 10-foot-11 broad jump.
#31 SS MAURICE ALEXANDER 6'1 229 lbs (Turns 26 on 02/16/2017)
Career... Total Tackles 43... Solo... 34... Int 0... Sacks 2
[www.rotoworld.com]
April 2, 2016: Rams coach Jeff Fisher said Maurice Alexander is an option at free safety following the departure of Rodney McLeod in free agency. A fourth-round pick in 2014, Alexander struggled in five starts last season. Cody Davis and Christian Bryant are the other in-house options, and the Rams could look to the draft for help. T.J McDonald is locked in at strong safety.
[www.stltoday.com]
“His first start at home this weekend. But he’s played a lot of football for us already this year,” Fisher said. “He’s continued to progress and we’re really proud of where he’s ended up.” Alexander has gotten a little bit of seasoning this year. He was in for a handful of plays at safety against Cleveland, San Francisco, Chicago, Baltimore, and Cincinnati. He was in for every defensive play, 72 of them, in the start at Minnesota.
And with injuries to cornerback Janoris Jenkins and McDonald last week against Arizona, Alexander was on the field for 26 defensive plays. His season totals are eight tackles, two sacks, and one quarterback hit. Those two sacks attest to his pass-rushing skills. He played some defensive end in college, but mainly outside linebacker before finally moving back to safety.
[www.rotoworld.com]
June 12, 2014: Rams signed No. 110 overall pick S Maurice Alexander to a four-year contract. More of an in-the-box safety than center fielder, Alexander (6-foot-1, 220 pounds) played linebacker as a sophomore, and does his best work close to the line. He does, however, offer plus athleticism with a 38-inch vertical and 4.54 forty. He'll begin his Rams career on special teams.
#38 FS CODY DAVIS 6'1 204 lbs (Turns 27 on 06/06/2016)
Career... Total Tackles 23... Solo... 18... Int 0... Sacks 0 (Had 2nd most Special Teams Tackles with 10 in 2015)
[profootballtalk.nbcsports.com]
Rams re-sign Brian Quick, Tim Barnes, Cody Davis Posted by Josh Alper: On March 9, 2016: Barnes and Davis both signed two-year deals. Davis has seen action in 43 games over the last three years for the Rams and most of it has come on special teams, which will likely be the case again in 2016.
[en.wikipedia.org]
Davis played collegiately at Texas Tech. As a senior in 2012, Davis was a 1st Team Capital One Academic All-American and was a Second-team All-Big 12 selection for the second consecutive season after making 84 solo tackles and 101 total tackles. He finished his Texas Tech career with 49 starts, including 22 consecutive starts at safety.
As a junior in 2011 he was Academic All-Big 12 (1st Team) and led team in tackles (93) while making 72 solo tackles and 21 assisted tackles. In 2010 he was All-Big 12 (Honorable Mention) and an Academic All-Big 12 (1st Team) Davis made 87 total tackles and played in 13 games (13 starts) and was second on the team with 87 total tackles while tying for the team lead (Bront Bird) with 68 solo tackles.
#24 SS CHRISTIAN BRYANT 5'10 192 lbs (Turns 25 on 3/21/2017)
Career... Total Tackles 3... Solo... 2... Int 0... Sacks 0
[archauthority.com]
St. Louis Rams Release Brandon McGee, Promote Christian Bryant: Bryant, an undersized safety, was a seventh-rounder of the Rams last season and will be making his first appearance on the active roster after a year-plus on the practice squad. Bryant, who was a noted special-teamer coming out of Ohio State, has flashed skills that indicated he could hang with NFLers during both of his preseasons to date, but with the exceptional depth that the Rams already possess at the safety position, there hadn’t really been space on the roster for him until now.
[www.scout.com]
10/14/2015: Christian Bryant will make his NFL regular-season debut on Sunday, approximately a year and a half after the St. Louis Rams drafted him. He is expected to make his NFL regular-season debut for the St. Louis Rams against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, more than a year after the team drafted him.
“I’m definitely excited for the opportunity,” Bryant said on Friday. “It’s a huge opportunity for me. I’m looking forward to it.” Bryant was one of the Rams’ four picks in the seventh round in the 2014 Draft. Fisher talked on Friday about how far Bryant has come. “Christian was their Defensive MVP before he got hurt there at Ohio State,” he said.
“On the trip we made there to look at the offensive lineman, I got a chance to visit with (Ohio State coach) Urban (Meyer) and talk to him a little bit about him. So, we brought him in. “It was a long rehab, but he had a great offseason here. He’s one of those classic examples of what a difference a year makes. So, had a really good preseason. I’ve got all the confidence in the world that he’ll go out there and do the right things.”
It has been almost two years since Bryant took the field in a game that mattered. He’ll appreciate the opportunity, knowing how far he has come since then and how much he has worked to get to this moment. “I’m looking forward to it,” he said. “I’m looking forward to getting on the field finally, playing some real football on Sundays.”
#43 FS BRIAN RANDOLPH 6'0 205 lbs (Turns 24 on 10/20 2016)
TENN: Career... Total Tackles 306... Solo... 217... Int 6... Sacks 0
[bleacherreport.com] March 30, 2016
Tennesee PRO DAY: Randolph showed out in the weight room and in the 40-yard dash, bench-pressing225 pounds 31 times, which is ridiculous for a defensive back. That bench number would have put him tied for seventh overall in this year's NFL Scouting Combine, regardless of position, per NFL.com. He also posted a 4.47 and 4.42 40-yard dash in his two runs. UT's official site had that second time at a 4.4 flat.
The four-year starter at UT told the media afterward that he called his shot that he'd stand out, per VolQuest's Rob Lewis and Brent Hubbs: With those gaudy numbers, Randolph definitely helped himself. He could slide onto somebody's big board now, despite getting spurned from the combine. Unlike a few of the Vols eligible for this draft, he has the on-field resume to prove his potential.
I told you all I was going to get that 4.4 and do 30 reps and that's what happened. I have never lacked speed or strength. I have just lacked hype. I don't like to talk too much till it's time. I gave you a little preview yesterday and had to back it up today. They want to see speed. I tried to tell them. I don't know where they were getting numbers from. It's nonsense. I was hearing stuff like 4.7. Golly, I didn't run a 4.7 in fifth grade.
I don't know how I'm going to do it now. I'm glad I got to prove that wrong. I was having fun today. I didn't feel any pressure. I was suppose to run a 4.7. I don't think could get much worse than that. I probably could have backpedaled 4.7. There was no pressure. It was just fun.
[www.cbssports.com]
PLAYER OVERVIEW: While Tennessee's secondary was leaky, as a whole, Randolph proved a standout, leading the team with four interceptions while recording another three pass breakups and making 75 stops, 50 of them solos. Randolph started all 12 games at strong safety in 2013, a year after tearing the ACL in his right knee just three games into his sophomore campaign.
Randolph's injury in 2012 was a critical loss to Tennessee's secondary as the talented defender was coming off a freshman campaign in which he started eight games (and played in all 12) and posted 55 tackles while splitting duty between free safety and nickel.
STRENGTHS: Randolph is an athletic, aggressive safety with good open-field tackling skills. He sports a compact frame with good overall musculature and is reportedly "noticeably" bigger in his upper body after his year in the weight room. He shows good body control and vision to avoid would-be blockers in the open field and is generally a reliable wrap-up tackler. He's shown good hands when interception opportunities are there, as well as a flair for big plays in clutch situations.
WEAKNESSES: Randolph doesn't possess elite straight-line speed and is high in his back pedal but he deciphers the action quickly and closes on the ball aggressively. Randolph's medical will play an important part in his ultimate grade. Besides the ACL tear, he struggled a bit last season with recurring shoulder issues, including stingers. Coach Butch Jones joked that Randolph was 180 pounds last year and the safety made it a point to bulk up in the offseason.
Randolph claims he's gained 15 pounds since last year and the Vols' official website lists him at a solid 209 pounds. Randolph was overshadowed by A.J. Johnson a year ago and that may occur again in 2014. If the redshirt junior elects to give up his final year of eligibility, however, he could "surprise" as the Vols' top NFL prospect in 2015. Rob Rang (8/26/14)
YOUTUBE: (Career Highlights)
[www.youtube.com] (8 mins)
[www.youtube.com] (4 mins)
#37 FS JORDAN LOMAX 5'10 205 lbs (Turns 23 on 10/13/2016)
IOWA... Total Tackles 201... Solo... 99... Int 2... Sacks 0
[www.nfl.com]
OVERVIEW: After three years of waiting his turn to get on the field, including a lost 2012 season due to a spring shoulder injury and 2013 season where he missed four more games due to injury, Lomax finally earned the starting nod in 2014 and stayed healthy. He put forth an honorable mention All-Big Ten effort at safety (he started his Iowa career at cornerback), making 92 tackles, intercepting a pass and breaking up six others.
Lomax followed that up with a third team all-conference campaign (96 tackles, one interception, six pass break-ups), where he used his compact build and athleticism to patrol the secondary for the Hawkeyes. PRO DAY RESULTS: 40-yard dash: 4.62 seconds... Vertical: 38 1/2 inches... Broad jump: 10 feet, 1 inch... 3-cone: 6.82 seconds
STRENGTHS: Aggressive, willing demeanor in run support. Loves to hit. Will get his licks in when he gets a chance. Might offer kickoff coverage value. Closes hard on receivers drifting into his area for the catch and can land a disruptive strike to jar ball free. Former cornerback with enough twitch to slam on brakes from backpedal and burst downhill. Hard worker in the classroom and weight room and noted team leader.
WEAKNESSES: Stout but short safety with small hands. Carries longer torso on shorter legs. Hesitates to jump routes on crossers and slants in front of him. Lacks playmaking instincts and length. Had just two interceptions in two years as starter. More buildup acceleration than short area burst in coverage.
Great hitter, but average finisher. Questionable angles and poor space adjustment led to 29 broken or missed tackles as a starter. DRAFT PROJECTION Round 7 or priority free agent: SOURCES TELL US "He's short but he's pretty well built so that shouldn't kill his chances.
He's not a reliable tackler in space and if he doesn't run really well he won't drafted. He'll be in a camp though." -- NFC East area scout.. BOTTOM LINE Physical hitter who plays with desire and urgency, but lacks the physical traits and downhill cover skills teams covet at the position. Comparisons to Bob Sanders by locals is understandable due to his frame and physicality, but Lomax lacks the juice and top-end speed that Sanders possessed.
YOUTUBE (Highlights)
[www.youtube.com] (4 mins)
#36 SS ROHAN GAINES 5'11 195 lbs (Turns 24 on 04/01 2017)
ARKANSAS... Total Tackles 234... Solo... 137... Int 2... Sacks 0
Senior (2015) Participated and started in all 13 games … Ranked third on the team in tackles and first among defensive backs (67) … 44 of his 67 tackles were solo stops … Had 1.5 tackles for loss, one interception and one pass breakup … Had at least four tackles in 10 games, including each of his last four contests.
Was the most experienced player on the Razorback defense with 47 games played and 39 career starts … vs. Texas Tech (Sept. 9): Had 10 tackles, marking the third double-digit performance of his career … vs. UT Martin (Oct. 31): Made his second career interception, which came in the first quarter on the Skyhawks’ first possession of the game … Earned preseason All-SEC third team honors from coaches.
Junior (2014) Started in 10 of 12 games participated in … Posted 59 tackles, 1.0 for loss, on the season … Added one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and five pass breakups … at No. 6 Auburn (Aug. 30): Registered eight tackles, seven solo in the season-opener.
At No. 1 Mississippi State (Nov. 1): Racked-up seven tackles and a pass breakup against the top-ranked Bulldogs … vs. No. 8 Ole Miss (Nov. 22): Returned an interception 100 yards for a touchdown, tying for the longest interception return in school history, in Arkansas’ 30-0 shutout over Ole Miss.
At No. 17 Missouri (Nov. 28): Posted seven tackles and recovered a fumble. Sophomore (2013) Played in 10 games with five starts and recorded 33 tackles, 1.0 for loss, one fumble recovery, two quarterback hurries and one pass breakup … vs. No. 14 South Carolina (Oct. 12): Made four tackles and two quarterback hurries … vs. Mississippi State (Nov. 1): Totaled a season-high nine tackles and added one fumble recovery … at Ole Miss (Nov. 9): Made five tackles, with 0.5 for loss.
YOUTUBE: (Hightlights)
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CORNERBACK- TIER Groupings for the 2016 53 Man Roster
CB] T.JOHNSON 100% Lock to make 53.(Pressure is on the franchise tagged CB to lockdown #1 WR's)
CB] E.GAINES 100% Lock to make 53.(2014 Sleeper rookie played great but lost his 2015 season to foot injury)
CB] L.JOYNER 100% Lock to make 53.(Little big man utility nickel corner is very valuable and going no where)
CB] M.ROBERSON 100% Lock to make 53.(Played well enough in reserve for 2 seasons & playing for a new contract?)
CB] C.SENSABAUGH 90% Lock to make 53.(Slot corner that has played some outside just signed 3 yr F/A contract)
CB] Troy.HILL 50% Lock to make 53.(2nd yr UDFA goes from Bengals to Rams. longshot likely a P.Squad spot)
CB] M.JORDAN 70% Lock to make P.Squad.(Small school tall CB/FS will try to show NFL isnt too big for him)
CB] J.Washington 45% Lock to make P.Squad.(SEC Alabama background but only played their in a reserve role)
SAFETY- TIER Groupings for the 2016 53 Man Roster
SS) T.J.McDonald (jr) 100% Lock to make 53.(His staring position is waiting and he needs to stay healthy)
SS) M.ALEXANDER 100% Lock to make 53.(Fisher 3rd year safety project is hoping for a breakout year)
FS) C.DAVIS 90% Lock to make 53.(A seasoned vet with special teams value and knows the system well)
SS) C.BRYANT 85% Lock to make 53.(3rd year small hard hitting SS has played some reserve and special teams)
FS) B.Randolph 60% Lock to make 53.(UDFA athletic FS with good numbers will make his case as an underdog)
FS) J.LOMAX 60% Lock to make 53.(UDFA from Iowa in the mix with Rams thin depth at free safety)
SS) R.GAINES 55% Lock to make P.Squad.(137 solo tackles at SEC Arkansas will get preseason snaps)
SUMMARY: These are just late May roster projections and obviously there is plenty of Roster movement and turnover that can happen to change things in a hurry. Any opinions from the Herd members is always appreciated. As you all know the Secondary is a very important unit for the defense to keep today's Pass happy NFL offenses from launching an all out air attack. (How many CB/Safeties will make the 53?) 9-10? or the P.Squad 1-3?
As we all know, Snead and Fisher will turn over the bottom of the roster at the drop of a hat this time of year. There is only 10 practice squad spots available so more than 2 of these defensive backs making the PS is probably unlikely.
As June, July and August anxiously get closer, our Herd board members always give great insight, theories, depth chart analysis and just plain old good clever Rams subjects to chat about.
Thanks for observing and I welcome your feedback, Florida
