As NFL teams prepare to trim rosters from 90 players down to the mandatory 53, the Los Angeles Rams face a critical decision-making window. Despite holding the 29th waiver priority, the front office has several high-upside targets to bolster their depth.
Targeting UConn’s 6’8” Chase Lundt and the Offensive Line Gap
The Los Angeles Rams must prioritize offensive line stability to survive a grueling NFL season. According to the report , Chase Lundt from UConn stands out as a premier target due to his massive 6-foot-8 frame and rare athletic agility. His ability to execute pulls and backside cutoffs makes him a high-upside developmental prospect for the Rams' coaching staff , which has a proven track record of polishing raw linemen.
Other offensive line options include Wanya Morris, who was recently waived by the Atlanta Falcons. The report also highlights Riley Mahlman, a seventh-round pick with a promising preseason, as a candidate for long-term growth. To secure the interior, the Rams may look toward Nick Samac, a center who earned high preseason grades from PFF and could serve as a high-value addition to the practice squad.
Junior Colson and the Search for Defensive Edge Depth
Defensive depth remains a vital priority for the Rams, particularly within the linebacker corps. Junior Colson, a former third-round pick, has emerged as a premier target after ranking fifth among linebackers in PFF preseason grades. His raw talent suggests he could compete immediately for a roster spot in Los Angeles.
The Rams are also exploring options to bolster their pass-rushing rotation. The report suggests that players like Isaac, a former third-round pick, and Foskey, a former second-round talent from the Cincinnati Bengals, could find a second wind in the Rams' system. Other developmental options include Eugene Asante and Sorey, with the latter specifically noted for impressive preseason coverage skills. Even Bissainthe is mentioned as a potential practice squad addition to maintain high-intensity competition.
Filling the Void Left by Jarquez Hunter's Trade
The Los Angeles Rams' backfield has become significantly thinner following the trade of Jarquez Hunter. as the NFL enters a period where over a thousand athletes may find themselves without a team, the Rams must be surgical in their acquisitions. While the team is unlikely to carry a fourth running back on the active 53-man roster, the report suggests that players like Abanikanda or Pierre Strong Jr. could provide necessary versatility.
Pierre Strong Jr. is particularly valuable due to his ability to contribute on special teams. In a league where special teams play often determines roster longevity, Strong's skill set makes him a strategic asset. Additionally, the receiving corps could benefit from Anthony Gould, who offers potential as both a slot receiver and a punt returner.
The Unresolved Question of Troy Reeder’s Future
Several variables regarding the Rams' roster construction remain unverified or subject to debate. while the report argues that the decision to move on from veteran Troy Reeder should be final to favor younger, more athletic athletes, the team's official stance on his status has not been explicitly confirmed.
The success of the Rams' developmental approach depends on how effectively they utilize the practice squad as a "laboratory." While the strategy involves stashing players like Kiran Amedgadjie to prepare for potential injury crises ,the ultimate outcome depends on the team's abiltiy to manage roster churn during the chaotic waiver period. The report does not clarify if the Rams will prioritize immediate veteran help or stick strictly to this long-term developmental philosophy.
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