LB overview from therams.com

[WarlordJC]

Just want to post some content to discuss. Hat tip to Wyatt Miller who did the interview with Greg Williams.

This in an AI overview of the article--I'll put my comments in a reply:

Below is an analysis of the article "OTA Observations: ILBs coach Greg Williams discusses performances during OTAs, impact of new faces, adapting to how teams attacked them last season," published on July 2, 2025, by Wyatt Miller on therams.com.

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The article focuses on the Los Angeles Rams' inside linebacker (ILB) unit during the 2025 Organized Team Activities (OTAs), highlighting the coaching and observations of ILBs coach Greg Williams. It discusses the integration of new players, notably veteran Nate Landman and rookie Chris "Pooh" Paul Jr., into the Rams' defensive scheme, as well as the departure of former starter Christian Rozeboom. The piece emphasizes the competitive nature of the ILB position group, the seamless transition of Landman, and the promising attributes of Paul. It also touches on the strategic adjustments being made to counter how opposing teams targeted the Rams' linebackers in the previous season.Key themes include:

• Roster Turnover: The loss of Rozeboom, the team's leading tackler in 2024, has created opportunities for new and existing players to compete for starting roles.
• Player Integration: Landman's experience and leadership are helping younger players, while Paul's aggressive playstyle and preparation stand out.
• Defensive Adaptation: Williams is adjusting the ILB unit's approach based on how opponents attacked them in 2024, particularly in run defense, where Landman's skills are expected to make an impact.

The article is optimistic about the potential of the ILB group, with Williams' coaching and the new additions poised to improve the Rams' defensive performance in the upcoming season.

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Background Information on Persons Mentioned: Below is a detailed breakdown of each individual mentioned in the article, including their college background, accolades, graduation year, NFL experience, and other relevant details.1. Greg Williams (Inside Linebackers Coach, Los Angeles Rams)

• College: University of North Carolina (UNC)
  • Details: Played as a wide receiver and safety at UNC. Specific years of attendance are not detailed in the sources, but he was active in the late 1990s.
  • Accolades: No specific college accolades mentioned in the sources.
  • Graduation Year: Not explicitly stated, but likely early 2000s based on his playing and subsequent professional career timeline.
• NFL Experience:
  • As a Player: Competed in training camps with the Chicago Bears and New York Giants (dates not specified, likely early 2000s). Also played in NFL Europe, the XFL, and the Arena Football League (AFL) as a defensive back for the Indiana Firebirds (2001–2003) and Chicago Rush (2004–2005).
  • As a Coach:
    • Los Angeles Rams (2025–present): Currently in his first season as the inside linebackers coach under head coach Sean McVay.
    • Green Bay Packers (2023): Served as defensive pass game coordinator, helping the Packers' defense rank ninth in opponent pass yards per game (206.8), eighth in opponent completions allowed (342), and tied for 10th in opponent passing touchdowns allowed (21).
    • Arizona Cardinals (2019–2022): Cornerbacks coach for four seasons. In his final season (2022), the Cardinals' cornerback group ranked second in the NFL in yards allowed per completion (10.10), the best single-season mark for the team since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger.
    • Other NFL Teams: Assistant coach for the Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts, and San Diego Chargers (specific years not detailed in the sources, but part of his 15 seasons of coaching experience, including nine at the NFL level).
• Other Notes:
  • Williams is a former Illinois high school football player of the state, winning an award over NFL quarterback Donovan McNabb.
  • Not to be confused with Gregg Williams (born July 15, 1958), a different NFL coach with a controversial history, including involvement in the New Orleans Saints' "Bountygate" scandal.
• Role in Article: As the ILBs coach, Williams is central to the article, providing insights on the performance and integration of Landman and Paul during OTAs. He praises Landman's leadership and seamless transition and highlights Paul's aggressiveness and tackling ability.

3. Christian Rozeboom (Former Rams Inside Linebacker)

• College: South Dakota State University
  • Details: Played linebacker for the South Dakota State Jackrabbits from 2016 to 2019.
  • Accolades:
    • First-Team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) in 2018 and 2019.
    • Led South Dakota State in tackles in 2018 (94 tackles) and 2019 (84 tackles).
    • Helped the Jackrabbits reach the FCS semifinals in 2017 and 2018.
  • Graduation Year: 2020 (assumed based on his college timeline).
• NFL Experience:
  • Los Angeles Rams (2020–2024):
    • Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2020.
    • Played in 51 games over four seasons, with 10 starts, primarily contributing on special teams initially.
    • Became a starter in 2024, leading the Rams in tackles (exact number not specified in the sources).
  • Carolina Panthers (2025–present):
    • Signed with the Panthers after the 2024 season, as noted in sources indicating his departure from the Rams.
• Other Notes:
  • Rozeboom’s departure left a void in the Rams’ ILB unit, prompting the addition of players like Landman and Paul to compete for his role.
• Role in Article: Mentioned as the Rams’ leading tackler in 2024, whose departure has opened up competition for the ILB starting roles.

4. Nate Landman (Inside Linebacker, Los Angeles Rams)

• College: University of Colorado
  • Details: Played linebacker for the Colorado Buffaloes from 2017 to 2021.
  • Accolades:
    • Second-Team All-Pac-12 in 2020.
    • Led Colorado in tackles in 2020 (70 tackles in 6 games) and 2021 (112 tackles).
    • Recorded 5 sacks and 2 interceptions during his college career.
  • Graduation Year: 2022 (assumed based on his final college season in 2021).
• NFL Experience:
  • Atlanta Falcons (2022–2024):
    • Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2022.
    • 2022: Limited role, primarily on special teams, appearing in 7 games.
    • 2023: Breakout season, starting 14 of 16 games after an injury to Troy Anderson. Recorded 110 tackles (66 solo, 44 assisted), 2 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and ranked second in the NFL in run stop percentage among qualified linebackers. Ranked in the top 10 for NFC linebacker Pro Bowl voting.
    • 2024: Played in 13 of 17 games, with 81 tackles (39 solo, 42 assisted), but no sacks or interceptions. The Falcons did not re-sign him after a disappointing defensive season.
  • Los Angeles Rams (2025–present):
    • Signed in free agency for the 2025 season.
    • Noted for a seamless transition into the Rams’ defense during OTAs, leveraging familiarity with a similar scheme from Atlanta under Raheem Morris.
• Other Notes:
  • Born in Zimbabwe, Landman’s journey from an undrafted free agent to a reliable starter is highlighted as a story of resilience.
  • His leadership and communication skills, especially pre-snap, have impressed coaches like Greg Williams and defensive coordinator Chris Shula.
  • Expected to compete for a starting ILB role alongside Chris Paul Jr. and others.
• Role in Article: A key focus as a veteran addition to the Rams’ ILB unit, praised for his seamless integration, leadership in helping younger players, and strong run-stopping ability (evidenced by his 2023 performance).

5. Chris "Pooh" Paul Jr. (Inside Linebacker, Los Angeles Rams)

• College: University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
  • Details: Played linebacker for Ole Miss from 2022 to 2024, after transferring from Arkansas (where he played in 2021).
  • Accolades:
    • Finalist for the Butkus Award in 2024, recognizing the nation’s top linebacker.
    • Led Ole Miss in tackles in 2024 (exact number not specified, but noted as the team’s top tackler).
    • Recorded a 4.5% missed tackle rate and 54 total stops in 2024, ranking 13th among qualified FBS inside linebackers.
  • Graduation Year: Did not graduate; declared for the 2025 NFL Draft after his junior season, forgoing the Gator Bowl.
• NFL Experience:
  • Los Angeles Rams (2025–present):
    • Selected in the fifth round (172nd overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft.
    • Currently in his first professional offseason, competing for a starting ILB role.
    • Noted for his aggressiveness and preparation during OTAs, with a low missed tackle rate and strong stop numbers from his college performance.
• Other Notes:
  • Nicknamed “Pooh,” Paul is described as a “football guy” with exceptional work ethic and preparation, prioritizing football above all else.
    His athleticism is expected to shine in training camp and preseason when pads are on, as OTAs limit physical contact.
    Faces competition from Nate Landman, Omar Speights, and possibly Troy Reeder for a starting role.
• Role in Article: Highlighted as a promising rookie whose aggressiveness and tackling ability (4.5% missed tackle rate, 54 stops) have impressed coach Greg Williams. His preparation and potential are emphasized as key attributes.

6. Chris Shula (Defensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Rams)

• College: Miami University (Ohio)
  • Details: Played linebacker for the Miami RedHawks from 2004 to 2008.
  • Accolades: No specific college accolades mentioned.
  • Graduation Year: 2009 (assumed based on his college timeline).
• NFL Experience:
  • As a Player: No NFL playing experience.
  • As a Coach:
    • Los Angeles Rams (2017–present):
      • Defensive coordinator since 2024, succeeding Raheem Morris.
      • Previously served as linebackers coach, pass rush coordinator, and outside linebackers coach.
    • Other Teams: Assistant coach for the San Diego Chargers (2015–2016) and at Indiana University, Colgate University, and Ball State University.
• Other Notes:
  • Grandson of legendary NFL coach Don Shula and son of Dave Shula, former Cincinnati Bengals head coach.
  • Praised Landman’s qualities during OTAs, noting positive feedback from Atlanta and his seamless fit into the Rams’ defense.
• Role in Article: Mentioned as the Rams’ defensive coordinator who endorsed Landman’s abilities, citing positive reports from Atlanta and observing his valuable contributions during OTAs.

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Additional Context and Insights

• Competitive ILB Room: The article underscores the open competition for starting ILB roles following Rozeboom’s departure. Other players mentioned in related sources, such as Omar Speights, Troy Reeder, and Shaun Dolac, are also part of this competition but are not directly referenced in the article.
  • Omar Speights: Described as the “definition of preparation and professionalism.”
  • Troy Reeder: Provides a “comfort level” but may be on the roster bubble due to higher expectations for Landman, Paul, and others.
  • Shaun Dolac: Noted for his ability to “teach you the defense right now,” indicating strong football IQ.
• Run Defense Focus: The Rams struggled against the run in 2024, ranking 22nd in rushing yards allowed and 26th in yards per carry. Landman’s proven run-stopping ability (2nd in NFL run stop percentage in 2023) and Paul’s low missed tackle rate are seen as critical to improving this area.
• Coaching Continuity: The connection between Raheem Morris and Chris Shula, both former Rams defensive coordinators, has facilitated Landman’s transition, as the defensive schemes share similarities. This continuity is a subtle but significant factor in the article’s narrative.
• Paul’s Potential: While Landman brings veteran experience, Paul’s rookie status and high ceiling (Butkus Award finalist, strong college stats) position him as a potential breakout player. His aggressiveness and preparation align with Williams’ coaching philosophy.

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[WarlordJC]

My takeaways and opinions are:

• Landman looks like a clear upgrade over Rozeboom--Landman could be a huge asset in run stuffing on early downs.
• Paul Jr. is a stud athlete, so the main thing for him will be mental, so hearing that he has a great work ethic is awesome. I think he can be a good blitzer, too. He's going to play on passing downs, I suspect, so he might be asked to blitz.
• Dolac is the guy I love the most! I have a thing for getting solid football players for free, and undrafted free agents are truly free. I see Dolac as a small guy with a great head and underrated athleticism. He can run, and his leaping INT near the line of scrimmage shows does how athletic he is.
• I think Reeder is the odd-man-out LB. If the other guys stay healthy, I think Reeder is cut. If not, we can hope he only plays on Special Teams.
• Speights should improve in his second season.
• With Poona Ford on the DL now, I think the run defense will be better, and if you add incremental improvement with a bigger LB, Landman, and some better athletes, Dolac and Paul Jr., I think the Rams could be much better on D in 2025.
• There aren't many inside LBs on the team, so I think Speights, Landman, and Paul Jr. are locks to be on the opening 53. I think Dolac should also be on the opening 53. Four ILBs is enough, so Reeder is on the bubble.

 

[fearsomefour]

My takeaways and opinions are:

• Landman looks like a clear upgrade over Rozeboom--Landman could be a huge asset in run stuffing on early downs.
• Paul Jr. is a stud athlete, so the main thing for him will be mental, so hearing that he has a great work ethic is awesome. I think he can be a good blitzer, too. He's going to play on passing downs, I suspect, so he might be asked to blitz.
• Dolac is the guy I love the most! I have a thing for getting solid football players for free, and undrafted free agents are truly free. I see Dolac as a small guy with a great head and underrated athleticism. He can run, and his leaping INT near the line of scrimmage shows does how athletic he is.
• I think Reeder is the odd-man-out LB. If the other guys stay healthy, I think Reeder is cut. If not, we can hope he only plays on Special Teams.
• Speights should improve in his second season.
• With Poona Ford on the DL now, I think the run defense will be better, and if you add incremental improvement with a bigger LB, Landman, and some better athletes, Dolac and Paul Jr., I think the Rams could be much better on D in 2025.
• There aren't many inside LBs on the team, so I think Speights, Landman, and Paul Jr. are locks to be on the opening 53. I think Dolac should also be on the opening 53. Four ILBs is enough, so Reeder is on the bubble.

Will be interesting to see whoever the odd man out is if they make it to the PS or not....

 

[WarlordJC]

Will be interesting to see whoever the odd man out is if they make it to the PS or not...

I'm pretty sure Reeder would be unclaimed if cut, so he should be the guy on the PS. I think Dolac would be scooped up by someone if the Rams tried to get him on the PS.

 

[Elmgrovegnome]

I'm pretty sure Reeder would be unclaimed if cut, so he should be the guy on the PS. I think Dolac would be scooped up by someone if the Rams tried to get him on the PS.

It all depends on how quickly they learn the defense. Speights wasn’t ready, according to McVay, for several games into the season. If that’s the case with Paul and Dolac then we may get some of Reeder early on. It s as lso depends on the roster crunch.

I wouldn’t be shocked if Reeder plays.

 

[den-the-coach]

I wouldn’t be shocked if Reeder plays.

 

[CGI_Ram]

I can’t wait to see how the new guys look out there.

2 weeks until camp!

 

[Allen2McVay]

I wouldn’t be shocked if Reeder plays.

 

[Ramstien]

It is like I have said before Reeder is like Roseboom they are try hard guys who are just not talented enough to play in the NFL.

 

[snackdaddy]

The ILB position should have plenty of competition. Landman looks like a solid tackling machine. Dolac is getting a lot of praise. Speights has the physical traits. Paul has a lot of potential. With all that said they will probably start Reeder.