LBs 2016

from off the net…note that not all this stuff copies, so here is a link to the : http://www.ramsrule.com/herd/read.php?5,663434,663434#msg-663434

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Florida_Ram

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Full breakdown & Analysis of the LINEBACKER position Battles for the 2016 Final 53 man roster.

‘The LINEBACKERS’

#52 MLB/OLB ALEC OGLETREE 6’2 242 lbs (Turns 25 on 09/25/2016)
http://www.ooyuz.com/images/2015/9/6/1444171387070.jpg

Career.. Total Tackles.. 270.. Solo.. 206.. Int.. 3.. Sacks.. 3.5.. Pass Defensed.. 22

http://www.rotoworld.com/recent/nfl/8383/alec-ogletree May 2, 2016
The Rams have exercised MLB Alec Ogletree’s fifth-year team option for 2017. It was never in doubt. A born play maker, Ogletree was sorely missed as he sat out the final 12 games of last season with a broken leg. Still only 24, Ogletree is making the move from the outside to the middle this season. He’s a candidate for a long-term extension.

http://espn.go.com/blog/st-louis-rams/post/_/id/28996/rams-pick-up-fifth-year-options-on-tavon-austin-alec-ogletree
For the Rams, exercising the option on Ogletree was a no-brainer given the relatively low cost of the option and his performance to this point in his career. The decision on Austin was more difficult because, as a top-10 pick, his fifth-year option is more expensive and his production thus far hasn’t been commensurate to that price. It’s also worth noting that the fifth-year options are only guaranteed for injury so players with options picked up now could theoretically be released before the start of the next league year when the money becomes guaranteed.

As the No. 30 overall pick in his class, Ogletree is only due the average of the third-through-25th highest salaries at his position. That means Ogletree would be due $8.369 million for the 2017 season. That’s a high price but not an outrageous one for a player who led the team in tackles his first two seasons and was an early Pro Bowl candidate before suffering a season ending injury in Week 4 last season.

This year, Ogletree is moving to middle linebacker, where he’ll have a chance to become more of a team leader and focal point for coordinator Gregg Williams’ group. And, of course, just because the Rams exercised his option doesn’t mean they won’t try to get a contract extension done with him before he’d play under it.

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/13811619/alec-ogletree-st-louis-rams-surgery-right-ankle Oct 4, 2015
GLENDALE, Ariz. — The St. Louis Rams will be without emerging linebacker Alec Ogletree for extended time, possibly the season, after he suffered a right ankle injury Sunday afternoon that will require surgery. “Alec is going to require surgery, and I don’t know the extent of it right now,” coach Jeff Fisher said. “The doctors still have some discussions, and we still have to do MRIs and things like that.

Either way, Ogletree’s loss is a big blow for the Rams’ defense. He had 10 tackles, including two for loss, Sunday before the injury, and was the team’s leading tackler through the first three games with 32, along with two sacks. Ogletree led the Rams in tackles each of the past two seasons.

2015 STATS: Total Games.. 4.. Total Tackles.. 42.. Solo.. 27.. Int.. 0.. Sacks.. 2
2014 STATS: Total Games. 16. Total Tackles. 111.. Solo.. 85.. Int.. 2.. Sacks.. 0.. Pass Defensed.. 12

http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-nfl-draft/2013/1/21/3899306/2013-nfl-mock-draft-alec-ogletree-mlb-georgia-new-york-giants
2013 NFL Mock Draft: SB Nation chooses Alec Ogletree, MLB, Georgia, for New York Giants: I am certain Jesse will weigh in on Ogletree with a profile at some point. The odd thing I find is that Ogletree played inside collegiately in a 3-4, and early profiles list him as an outside linebacker in the NFL.

http://www.redandblack.com/sports/winners-and-losers-from-georgia-s-pro-day/article_72766e78-9287-11e2-a891-0019bb30f31a.html
Winners and losers from Georgia’s Pro Day: After a strong Combine, Ogletree didn’t have to do much to show scouts he’s worth a top 15 or 20 pick. What he needed to do was improve upon his 4.70 40-yard dash and show humility and intelligence about his rocky off-the-field presence.

On Thursday, Ogletree did both. He dropped his 40 time to 4.63, the second fastest among inside linebackers, and he faced tough questions about his DUI earlier this offseason. Ogletree told reporters that he had several personal interviews lined up between now and April 25. As long as he nails those interviews and remains out of trouble, he should have no problem finding teams that want to spend a first-round pick on him.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2013/profiles/alec-ogletree?id=2540143
At safety as a freshman, Ogletree recorded 34 total tackles, one of which went for a loss. Despite missing almost seven full games in 2011, Ogletree recorded 52 total tackles from his inside linebacker spot, including 7.5 for loss, three of which were sacks. He added two forced fumbles and two pass breakups.

During his final season in Athens, Ogletree accounted for 111 total tackles, 11.5 going for a loss with three sacks. He showed more comfort in coverage with five pass breakups, including his first interception. Ogletree also scored on a blocked field-goal attempt against Alabama in the SEC Championship Game.

http://www.milehighreport.com/2013/2/5/3952874/2013-nfl-draft-prospect-lb-alec-ogletree-scouting-report
In 3 seasons at the University of Georgia Ogletree totaled 197 tackles, 20 tackles for a loss, 6 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 1 defensive TD and 1 Int. 2012 was his best year. In 2012 Ogletree totaled 111 total tackles, 11.5 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks, 1 Int, 6 passes defended, 1 forced fumble and 1 defensive TD. Ogletree was apart of a georgia defense that had top prospects OLB Jarvis Jones and NT/DT John Jenkins.

In Outback Bowl vs. No. 12 Mich. St., recorded a career-high and team-best 13 tackles including a two TFLs and two PBUs. In SEC Championship vs. No. 1 LSU, led team with six tackles including a 17-yard sack. Led the team with a career-high 11 tackles, including 10 solo stops, at No. 21 Ga. Tech. Led the team with eight tackles, including two TFL, vs. Kentucky. Six tackles including two TFL and a forced fumble vs. No. No. 24 Auburn. Recorded five tackles and a forced fumble vs. Florida. Recipient of the Don Leebern, Jr. & Don Leebern, III Scholarship. 2010: Named to SEC Coaches’ All-SEC Freshman Team.

STRENGTHS: Has excellent speed for the position, can turn on the jets to chase plays down form behind. Beats blocks with hand quickness, plays the position like a safety with a chance to build a frame like a linebacker. That helps undercut blocks to make tackles for loss from behind. Can really hit when he wants to. Attacks blockers with authority.

Best at closing on the edge, when running back looks to bounce outside or the quarterback scrambles out of the pocket. Flashes plays where he looks possessed, like nothing will stop him. Stick to running backs out of the backfield in coverage, even with a slip he has enough closing speed to be reliable in coverage. Attacks the football when tackling in the hopes of creating a fumble. Outstanding straight-line speed. Plays loose.

WEAKNESSES: Rarely uses hands to fight with blockers despite an aggressive mentality. Overruns a lot of plays between the tackles, struggles to recover. Has a lot of issues dealing with second level blocks from the offensive line, rarely can work over top of them, there winds up walled off. Run and chase player at this point, loses gap integrity with false or wasted steps. Dives or lunges for a lot of tackles rather than running through them and wrapping up. Mentality changes when attacking an offensive lineman compared to a running back.

BOTTOM LINE: It is tough to question Ogletree’s athleticism at the linebacker position. Just watching him close on runs or swing passes on the edge is worth the price of admission. Despite playing the last two years at inside linebacker in the Bulldogs 3-4 defense, it would not be surprising to see Ogletree make the switch to weakside linebacker in a defense that uses a four man front. The reason being is the junior struggles to get over top of blocks but does his best work chasing and closing. Expect the Bulldog to be a three down player if he cuts down on wasted steps.

http://247sports.com/Player/Alec-Ogletree-5078?Player Institution=24601 (high school scouting report)
Alec Ogletree is a 6-3, 224-pound Inside Linebacker from Newnan, GA. He is ranked No. 28 in the country by 247Sports.[/b] Ogletree is the No. 4 recruit in Georgia (GA) and is the No. 1 Inside Linebacker in the nation. Ogletree has a 247Sports rating of 97, making him a 4-star prospect. He has committed to Georgia Bulldogs.

#26 OLB MARK BARRON 6’1 213 lbs OLB (Turns 27 on 10/27/2016)
http://mediaassets.620wtmj.com/photo/2015/12/22/WayneBuccaneers_USATSI_9002276_1450810955296_28793708_ver1.0_320_240.jpg

Bucs/Rams Career.. Total Tackles.. 364.. Solo.. 276.. Int.. 3.. Sacks.. 6

http://www.rotoworld.com/recent/nfl/7497/mark-barron Mar 9, 2016
Rams re-signed WLB Mark Barron to a five-year, $45 million contract. It’s a pretty penny for a player who only recently converted from safety. Per ESPN’s Nick Wagoner, keeping Barron was the Rams’ “top priority.” Barron had a strong 2015 filling in for Alec Ogletree.

Ogletree will man the middle in 2016. Barron is a playmaker, one the Rams are counting on to force fumbles and pick off passes in coverage. The No. 7 overall pick of the 2012 draft has bounced all the way back after it looked like he was going to be a bust.

Mark Barron made a lot of tackles for the St. Louis Rams during the 2015 season.. The league says he made 116; the Rams coaches had him down for 135 – and he started for only three-fourths of the year at “whatever. “Barron started all 37 games he played for Tampa Bay after the Buccaneers took him out of Alabama with the seventh choice in the 2012 NFL Draft. But after being traded to the Rams, Barron started twice in his first 13 games with St. Louis.

http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2015/11/dont_call_mark_barron_a_lineba.html
Mark Barron had the best game of his four seasons in the NFL last week playing weakside linebacker for St. Louis in the Rams’ 24-6 victory over the Cleveland Browns — 19 tackles, two forced fumbles and two tackles for loss, according to the St. Louis coaching staff. Just don’t call Barron a linebacker. “In my mind, I’m still playing safety,” Barron said. “I’m just lining up in a different place.”

https://www.profootballfocus.com/pro-top-7-linebackers-set-to-hit-free-agency/
TOP LINEBACKERS SET TO HIT FREE AGENCY: Barron, a former top-10 pick as a safety for the Buccaneers, experienced something of a rebirth in St. Louis last season as an injury replacement at outside linebacker. He was especially good against the run, finishing first among 4-3 outside linebackers in run-stop percentage with 11.1.

Ironically, he struggled some as a cover man, giving up the sixth-most passing yards in coverage among 4-3 outside linebackers with 407, with 294 after the catch, failing to intercept a pass and surrendering a 94.1 passer rating into his coverage. The team that acquires Barron will likely continue using him at linebacker, furthering an interesting trend in using converted safeties in the front seven.

Barron was an All-American safety at Alabama and a starting safety for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from the time they selected him with the seventh choice in the 2012 NFL Draft until the Bucs trade him to the Rams for two draft picks last season. St. Louis has used Barron in a variety of defensive roles, either at safety or in the guise of one. But now he’s on the Rams’ depth chart as the weakside linebacker.

ALA Career: 2008-2011.. Tackles.. 235.. Solo.. 149.. Sacks.. 5.. Int.. 12

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Barron
Barron was born in Mobile, Alabama. He attended St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile, where he played for the St. Paul’s Saints high school football team, under the coaching of Eddie Guth. He played multiple positions, including running back, wide receiver, and linebacker from 2004 through 2007.

Barron was ranked as a five-star prospect and the number one weakside linebacker in the 2008 class by scout.com. He was also ranked as the 5th best player in the state of Alabama and the 55th best player in the nation in the class of 2008 by rivals.com. Barron chose to play at Alabama over offers from Auburn, LSU, Florida, Florida State and Tennessee among others.

#56 OLB AKEEM AYERS 6’2 254 lbs (Turns 27 on 07/10/2016)
http://www2.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Akeem+Ayers+ZEih6Qfo0A_m.jpg

Titans/Pats/Rams Career.. Total Tackles.. 299.. Solo.. 205… Int.. 3.. Sacks.. 13.5

http://www.rotoworld.com/recent/nfl/6453/akeem-ayers Mar 12, 2015
Rams signed DE/OLB Akeem Ayers, formerly of the Patriots, to a two-year contract. Ayers is an ex-Titan but has no connection to coach Jeff Fisher, who left Tennessee the year before Ayers was drafted. The 25-year-old is a hybrid stand-up edge rusher who has yet to find a real position in the NFL. He has pass-rush juice and can cover tight ends.

http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2015/12/28/3-things-we-learned-about-the-St-Louis-Rams/2161451313211/ Dec 28, 2015
That finally changed Sunday, when the Rams shocked Seattle with a 23-17 win, the first road win for St. Louis against the Seahawks since 2004. St. Louis linebacker Akeem Ayers had two key fumble recoveries, one of which he returned for a first-quarter touchdown, sparking the Rams to a 16-0 lead midway through the second quarter.
Ayers finished off the day with another fumble recovery, at the St. Louis 8-yard line, to clinch the win.

“It’s just running to the ball,” Ayers said of his two fumble recoveries. “(Defensive coordinator) Gregg (Williams) preached getting to the ball. The more people getting to the ball, the more likely you’ll make something happen.” The Rams (7-8) have won three in a row after falling into a five-game funk that knocked them out of playoff contention.
(2015: 16 games.. Tot Tackles.. 47.. Solo.. 35.. Sacks.. 0.5.. Passes Defensed.. 5.. Int.. 0… Fumbles.. 3)

http://www.bigblueview.com/2011/1/25/1949220/2011-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-akeem-ayers-olb-ucla (NFL Draft scouting report)
Positives: Has ideal frame for playing outside in a 3-4 defensive scheme, has enough bulk to lock down strong side linebacker duties and can fill a lot of space… Has size and speed to line up at several positions on the field, has lined up at defensive end and multiple linebacker positions in the past… Solid open-field tackler, plays under control and wraps up, does not like to dive at ball carriers.

UCLA Career: 2008-2010.. Tackles.. 183.. Solo.. 128.. Sacks.. 14.. Int.. 6

Negatives: Does not possess great timed speed, but that is to be expected for his size, is more quick than fast with very good agility… Takes a little too long to diagnose plays, which allows ball carriers to get extra yardage on his side of the field… Has the ability to get to the quarterback in some situations (14 career sacks)

#54 ILB/OLB BRYCE HAGER 6’1 234 lbs (Turns 25 on 05/04/2017)
http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Bryce+Hager+TShYV4Eylxnm.jpg

Rams-. Career.. Total Tackles….. 5.. Solo.. 2…. Int 0.. Sacks.. 0
Baylor- Career.. Total Tackles.. 322. Solo. 202. Int 1.. Sacks.. 7

http://www.scout.com/nfl/rams/story/1582255-rookie-linebacker-bryce-hager-impresses-rams Sept 03, 2015: By NATE LATSCH
It hasn’t been easy for the rookie. “It’s coming along,” Hager said. “The more I’m doing it, the more reps I’m getting, it’s getting easier each time I step out there. But being able to switch from mike to will, being able to switch those plays in my head, what I’m supposed to be doing, just getting used to doing that, that’s just probably the biggest thing right now but it’s coming along.”

Hager has made plenty of plays throughout the Rams’ first three preseason games. He leads the team with 16 tackles (13 solo, three assisted) according to the coaching staff’s video tape evaluations and recovered a fumble against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday that led to a third-quarter rushing touchdown by Trey Watts. “The hole opened up, so I hit my gap, and the ball happened to bounce off the running back’s chest and right into my arms,” Hager said.

“So I guess it was the right time, right place.” Hager has played a team-high 125 defensive snaps through the first three preseason games, according to Pro Football Focus, and he has the third-highest grade for run defense among the Rams this preseason. The rookie linebacker is getting opportunities and he’s showing what he’s capable of.

http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/6/15/8782441/2015-st-louis-rams-roster-preview-depth-chart-bryce-hager June 15, 2015
Now Bryce Hager is the latest in a line of late round draft picks in the attempt to fill that backup role. Rams fans have seen Aaron Brown, Josh Hull and Jabara Williams all largely fail to show enough promise to stick around long term.

While Williams made cameos and Hull stuck around as a core special teams player for a few years, neither could handle their business at LB and are no longer with the team. Enter Hager, the son of Jeff Fisher-Coached Britt Hager and the latest attempt by Snead and Fish to fill out the MLB depth chart.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/bryce-hager?id=2552307
WEAKNESSES:/b] Not a downhill linebacker. Won’t beat offensive linemen to the spot against run. Delays in diagnosing interior runs. Play speed is inconsistent. Doesn’t bring strong thump behind his pads as a hitter when asked to be face-up tackler. Needs to be clean and free-running to the ball to be effective.

BOTTOM LINE: With his burst to the ball and ability to cover, Hager would be best suited for a 4-3 defense looking for an athletic linebacker who can make plays outside of his area. Hager might end up a late-round pick, but teams like his production and chase traits.

YOUTUBE: (Highlights Baylor)

#50 OLB CAMERON LYNCH 5’11 227[/b] (Turns 23 on 08/04/2016)
http://media.syracuse.com/post-standard/photo/2013/10/13671655-large.jpg

Rams-Career……. Total Tackles….. 4… Solo…. 4… Int.. 0… Sacks.. 0
Syracuse Career.. Total Tackles.. 243.. Solo.. 173.. Int 2.. Sacks.. 17

http://www.syracuse.com/orangefootball/index.ssf/2015/09/cameron_lynch_linebacker_st_louis_rams_syracuse_football.html
Syracuse, N.Y. — Former Syracuse linebacker Cameron Lynch made the St. Louis Rams’ 53-man roster on Saturday, he said in a text message. The 6-foot, 229-pound Lynch was a two-year starter and senior captain for the Orange before going unselected at this year’s NFL Draft.

He signed with the Rams as a free agent shortly after but was likely a long shot to make the final cut. Lynch recorded 17 tackles, a pass deflection and a forced fumble during the preseason. Playing against the Chiefs on Thursday, he paced the Rams with nine tackles.

At Syracuse, Lynch posted a team-leading 97 tackles, inducing 12 for loss, and seven sacks as a senior last season. He earned third-team All-ACC honors from Phil Steele. Lynch finished with 69 tackles, including 12 for loss, six pass deflections and four sacks as a junior. He is also one of the stronger players to come out of Syracuse recently. He was named the No. 4 “freak” athlete in the country by NFL.com before last season.

http://www.syracuse.com/orangefootball/index.ssf/2014/05/cameron_lynch_freak_linebacker_athlete.html May 30, 2014
Syracuse, N.Y. — While Marqez Hodge is on track to replace Marquis Spruill as Syracuse’s starting middle linebacker, Cameron Lynch is working on filling another of Spruill’s roles: team “freak. “Lynch was named the nation’s No. 4 most freakish athlete by NFL.com college football writer Mike Huguenin on Thursday, after Spruill was listed as an honorable ‘freak’ by CBS’ Bruce Feldman last season, just missing his annual top 20 list.

Here’s the “buzz” that led Huguenin to place Lynch ahead of others including Mississippi State outside linebacker Benardrick McKinney, Georgia running back Todd Gurley and UCLA running back/linebacker Myles Jack, who was left off the list. He lacks ideal size, but has been an important player since he first stepped on campus and will start for the second season in a row this fall. He is both strong and fast.

He has been clocked at 4.7 seconds in the 40 and can squat 620 pounds, clean 374 pounds and bench press 435 pounds. He also can do 36 reps in the bench press at 225 pounds. He also can do a standing back flip, and his vertical jump has been measured at 36 inches.

Lynch is the next in a line of Syracuse players to thrive in the weight room, following Spruill and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Shamarko Thomas. At last year’s training camp, former SU defensive tackle Jay Bromley called Lynch “like a bowling ball of just speed.”

http://www.draftinsider.net/reports/2015/OLB/Cameron-Lynch
Positive: Small but explosive linebacker who makes plays to every area of the field. Instinctive, effectively diagnoses plays and shows a good change of direction. Gets depth on pass drops, makes plays sideline-to-sideline and fires to the action. Quick arriving on the scene and sells out to stop ball carriers.

Negative: Undersized and easily taken from the action. Will be over matched by tight ends. Analysis: Lynch has size limitations but is an underrated linebacker who could fill a role in a one-gap system and play on special teams.

YOUTUBE: (Syracuse highlights)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wvHunysPFc (Hekker hot seat C.Lynch interview)

#59 ILB JOSH FORREST 6’3 249 (estimated age 23 DOB n/a)
http://17104-presscdn-0-80.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/forrestJosh1-360×240.jpg

Career.. Total Tackles.. 270.. Solo.. 206.. Int.. 3.. Sacks.. 3.5

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/profiles/josh-forrest?id=2555167 …….. (2016 NFL Draft: Rams draft Kentucky ILB Josh Forrest in the 6th round No. 190)
OVERVIEW: Although Forrest didn’t play football until his junior year of high school, he did enough there (14 touchdowns receiving, seven interceptions – three returned for touchdowns) to earn a scholarship from the Wildcats.

After two years as a reserve, Forrest took over as a starter, leading the team in tackles in each of the past two seasons (110 in 2014, 93 in 2015). He also made plays in the passing game, intercepting two passes each year (including a 81-yard pick six against Louisville this year). PRO DAY RESULTS: 40-yard dash.. 4.78 and 4.85 seconds.. 20-yard short shuttle: 4/22 seconds.. 3-cone drill.. 7.48 seconds

STRENGTHS: Tall, long­-limbed and athletic. Was used all over the field by Kentucky staff. Has 202 tackles during his two-year stint as starter. Has plus chase speed. Lateral quickness is a strength. Length and closing burst gives him extended range to make tackles.

Has quick direction change to put himself in position for difficult open field finishes. Uses hand and foot quickness to sidestep and brush away blockers targeting him on second level. Frequently used as blitzer and gap shooter. Able to “get skinny” and sneak through crevices and into the backfield.

WEAKNESSES: Could use more strength in his lower half. Needs to add play strength to avoid being washed down against run. Physical tight ends can push him at point of attack. Too upright on downhill charges and blitzes. Gets jostled out of the play by redirect blocks. Effort runs hot and cold. As tackler, below average job of breaking down in space.

Relies on catch and drag technique over chesting up and finishing. Had nine broken and 22 missed tackles over last two years. Slow to diagnose and gets few head starts on the play. Average awareness in pass coverage and needs to get better at squeezing targets in his zone. DRAFT PROJECTION Rounds 5 or 6

BOTTOM LINE: With his athleticism and length, teams may be tempted to try him out as an edge rusher, but he is a much better straight-­line blitzer through the A and B gaps than he is around the edge. Forrest is a WILL linebacker with the size and range teams look for, but his combination of average instincts and wasted movement in space could be an indicator of up-­and-­down play in the pros.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1877310/josh-forrest
Forrest still looks a bit more like a receiver (or tight end) than a traditional ‘thumper inside linebacker. He sports a relatively lanky, athletic frame, and his best attribute may be his acceleration as Forrest’s speed and aggression make him a nice fit in coach Mike Stoops’ scheme and potentially in the NFL.

He possesses impressive burst and closing speed for his size once he locates the ball – traits which could intrigue special teams coaches. Flashes physicality in taking on blockers. Boosted his cause by impressing with his overall athleticism at the Senior Bowl, including when he was asked to attack as an edge rusher, showing an intriguing combination of burst and bend off the corner.

YOUTUBE: (Highlights)

#51 OLB/S MATT WELLS 6’0 222 lbs (Turns 26 on 11/26/2016)
https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WEcIkJUUa5AHPkl5-dCi3lc2iCM=/0x0:4000×2667/352×235/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17783573/20120901_gav_ad8_264.0.jpg

Miss.ST. Career.. Total Tackles.. 155.. Solo.. 77.. Int.. 3.. Sacks.. 4.5

http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2016/1/8/10725482/st-louis-rams-53-man-roster-transactions-futures-contracts
St. Louis Rams Sign Six Players To Future/Reserve Contracts: Wells has not had a lucky career as a rookie, being drafted in the six round by the New England Patroits and then traded to the Chicago Bears a couple of months later. As a player think of Wells like he’s Mark Barron. he’s one of those linebacker/safety hybrids that has the speed to make plays. Wells will have to stick out on speical teams next season, but he could become a depth or sub-package player. Here is an interesting note on Wells, he is legally blind in his right eye.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/matthew-wells?id=2553443
OVERVIEW: 2014: Started all 13 games at outside linebacker. 2013: Started all 13 contests. 2012: Played in 13 games. Earned a start at outside linebacker in four of the first five games of the season. 2011: All-SEC Freshman nominee who played in all 13 games, including three starts. 2010: Redshirted. PRO DAY RESULTS: 40-yard dash: 4.44 seconds... Vertical jump: 35 1/2 inches… Broad jump: 9 feet, 10 inches… Short shuttle: 4.26 seconds… 3-cone: 6.97 seconds… Bench: 15 reps of 225 pound

http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nfl/10553/matthew-wells
Bears acquired LB Matthew Wells from the Patriots in exchange for OG Ryan Groy. It’s an odd move, as Wells was a sixth-rounder in May’s draft, and Groy is a 2014 undrafted free agent. A bit of a linebacker/safety hybrid, Wells boasts sideline-to-sideline speed and athleticism. He was a big-time playmaker for Mississippi State. Wells will have to earn his rookie keep on special teams, but has the upside to become a viable sub-package player on defense.

Patriots selected Mississippi State S/LB Matthew Wells (6th round with the No. 178 overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft.) Wells made 33 starts for the Bulldogs, piling up 22 career TFLs, six sacks, and three forced fumbles. A sideline-to-sideline speedster, Wells confirmed his range with a 4.43 forty at the Mississippi State Pro Day, in addition to a 35 1/2-inch vertical and 9-foot-10 broad jump. Built like a safety, Wells could contribute in the NFL as a dime linebacker and special teamer.

YOUTUBE: [Highlights #22 L-OLB]

#57 OLB ZACK HODGES 6’2 234 (Turns 25 on 02/18/2017)
http://sportsagentdairy.com/wp-content/uploads/83cb4325e61e7b27491e08a93a709374.jpg

CAREER.. Total Tackles.. 118… Tackles for loss.. 41.. SACKS.. 27

http://www.thecrimson.com/blog/the-back-page/article/2015/10/30/zach-hodges-st-louis-rams-practice/
Oct 30, 2015: There are few Harvard athletes as decorated as Zack Hodges ‘15, the first two-time Defensive Player of the Year in Ivy League history, who was added to the St. Louis Rams practice squad this past weekend.

With outside linebacker Alec Ogletree headed to injured reserve, the Rams picked up Hodges as part of a roster reshuffle. The former Crimson standout signed with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent this spring before being released. Despite excelling as a down lineman in college, Hodges will likely transition to an outside linebacker role in the NFL due to his relatively diminutive frame.

Scouting reports often tout his pass-rushing skills. NFL.com wrote that he “[g]ets upfield with good burst after snap. Good speed to the ball when in back-side pursuit, and can plant his foot and turn the corner at a tight angle when rushing. Loose, athletic hips. Spin move can become a featured pass-rush weapon.”

Hodges was hoping to hear his name called late in this spring’s draft in Chicago, but ended up coming to terms as a priority free agent with the Colts. A 2015 Senior Bowl participant, Hodges spent the entire spring and much of the summer with the Colts before being waived on August 31 as part of the team’s final wave of preseason cuts.

http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/zack-hodges?id=2552302
OVERVIEW 2014: Co-Defensive Player of the Year. Second-team AP FCS All-American. First-team All-Ivy League. Led team with 10 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks. 2013: Named to the AFCA All-American. Earned Asa S. Bushnell Cup as Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year. First-team All-Ivy League team. Started all 10 games. 2012: First-team All-Ivy League. Led Ivy League in tackles for loss and finished second in sacks. 2011: Played in nine games, missing one with a shoulder injury.

STRENGTHS: Gets upfield with good burst after snap. Good speed to the ball when in back-side pursuit. Has sudden change of direction. Can plant his foot and turn the corner at a tight angle when rushing. Loose, athletic hips. Pushes tackle to high point of arc and can work back underneath effectively. Spin move can become a featured pass-rush weapon. Plays with natural leverage and bend.

WEAKNESSES: Spotty level of competition. Had sacks where he was barely contested around the corner. Ball awareness is inconsistent and he doesn’t always trust his eyes. Lacks NFL bulk. Needs to add functional strength. Gets redirected and knocked off-balance too easily. Raw as a pass rusher with below-average hands.

On the ground too often. Evaluators question play demeanor and toughness. Takes undisciplined angles to the quarterback. Showed hip tightness and stiffness when asked to go through linebacker drills at Senior Bowl and Combine. DRAFT PROJECTION Round 7 or priority free agent

http://www.rotoworld.com/recent/cfb/133658/zach-hodges Sun, May 3, 2015
Colts signed Harvard LB Zack Hodges. Hodges twice won Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year, finishing his career as Harvard’s all-time leader in sacks (27). He ran 4.68 at the Combine with a 33 1/2-inch vertical and explosive 10-foot-5 broad jump. With vine-like arms 34 1/4″ to ward off blocks and plus athleticism, Hodges is a legit NFL prospect despite his “small-school” label. He is a bursty, edge-bending pass rusher with a devastating spin move. Hodges needs weight-room work, but has the necessary tools to develop into a big-league player.

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24978490/senior-bowl-10-defensive-prospects-to-watch
Arguably the top “small school” prospect at the Senior Bowl, Hodges will look to do what WR Tre McBride did at the East-West Shrine Game and show he can have success against FBS talent. Hodges played a hybrid role at Harvard, lining up inside, outside and also standing up as a rusher, so scouts will be eager to see how Hodges looks at a traditional linebacker spot.

YOUTUBE: (Highlights #99)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTgxzTXDC0Q (Game highlights pass rusher)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdkGQ3DRqRM (Zack Hodges DEF Player of the YR Homeless story)

#53 ILB BRANDON CHUBB 6’0 242 lbs (Turns 23 on 10/21/2016)
http://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Brandon-chubb-300×150.jpg

Career.. Total Tackles.. 313.. Solo.. 170.. Int.. 1.. Sacks.. 3.5

http://www.wakeforestsports.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/brandon_chubb_742603.html
2015: 11 Games: 94 Tackles.. 46 Solo.. TFL 8.5.. Sacks.. 0.5.. INT..0.. Served as team captain in 2014 and 2015.. 2014: Collected career-best 109 tackles as a junior, the second-most on the team. Had 53 solos and 56 assists. Led the team with six quarterback hurries and added 3 sacks.

Started all 12 games. Recorded a then-career-high 18 tackles in the season-opener at ULM. It marked the most tackles by a Deacon since Brad White had 24 vs. Navy in 2002. Closed the year with a career-best 19 stops at Duke. Recorded three sacks on the year against Gardner-Webb, Clemson and Virginia Tech.

Earned honorable mention All-ACC from ACSMA. Third team All-ACC by the league coaches. Finished fifth in the ACC in tackles per game at 9.1 Was third on the club with 901 total plays in 2014. Played a season-high 93 snaps in the opener vs. ULM. Added 92 snaps at Utah State. Saw 70 or more plays in 10 games Forced two fumbles and had one fumble recovery on the season. Enters the season as the team’s most experienced defender with 24 career starts.

2013: (Sophomore) Had a breakout season in his first year as a starter. Started all 12 games at inside linebacker. Finished second on the team with 88 tackles, including 57 solo and three for loss. Ranked 14th in the ACC with 7.3 tackles per game.

Had two pass breakups and returned an interception 29 yards for a touchdown in the season opener vs. Presbyterian (Aug. 29). Also had seven tackles vs. the Blue Hose. Made 10 tackles, including seven solo, vs. ULM (Sept. 14) Had nine tackles, including seven solo and one for loss, at Clemson

Sept. 28.. Had eight tackles in back-to-back games vs. Maryland (Oct. 19) and at Miami (Oct. 26) … Led the team with 11 tackles, including eight solo, to go with two pass breakups at Syracuse (Nov. 2) … Led the team in tackles with eight against Duke (Nov. 23) … Made 10 tackles, with 1.5 for loss, at Vanderbilt (Nov. 30) … Received the ACC Top Six for Service award for efforts in the community.

Brandon Chubb, OLB, Wake Forest: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Overview: Chubb is a relatively unknown prospect considering much of his work went unheralded for an irrelevant program. He has the production, and ability to get sideline to sideline and rush the passer which creates intrigue. He can be a solid pass rushing specialist in the short-term.

Strengths: He was elected a captain in two of the three seasons he started for the Demon Deacons. His production is something that strikes you seeing as he recorded 216 total tackles in two years. Has the toughness that you look for in an NFL linebacker.

Good run stopper, good in pursuit. Great interior pass rusher. Smart enough to run and understand a complex defensive scheme or plan. Great sideline to sideline ability, keeps his head on a swivel.

Weaknesses: Needs to work on pass coverage. Didn’t make enough of an impression to get an invite to the combine or Senior Bowl. Speed isn’t the best, but will be enough to get the job done. A little bit short for an edge rusher, questions about size will be there.

YOUTUBE: (Highlights)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKjsLsoHhtY (vs Louisiana Monroe)

#49 LB DARREON HERRING 6’2 230 lbs (Turns 23 on 11/23/2016)
http://www4.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Darreon+Herring+lynEM-P_Alpm.jpg

Career.. Total Tackles.. 226.. Solo.. 123.. Int.. 2.. Sacks.. 3.5

http://www.vucommodores.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/darreon_herring_797775.html
2015: In his final season as a Commodore, Herring became a critical leader and top performer for one of the SEC’s most improved defenses. Was voted squad’s defensive captain by teammates after the campaign. Started all 12 games at linebacker, and filled an important leadership void when returning starter Nigel Bowden couldn’t return from an early-season injury. Finished the season second on the team with 64 total tackles and fourth with 34 solo stops.

Also contributed 3.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 quarterback sacks and three defensed passes. Ended career as team’s active leader with 123 solo tackles and 226 total tackles. Contributed at least three tackles in 11 of 12 games. Registered career high at South Carolina by contributing eight solo tackles.

Herring’s two tackles for loss and QB sacks played critical role in SEC victory over Missouri. Also had eight total tackles in road games at Ole Miss and Houston. Concluded season on high note, posting six tackles against both Texas A&M and Tennessee.

2014: Herring showed versatility playing among the linebacking corps and secondary in team’s new 3-4 defensive scheme. Participated in all 12 games, earning 11 starts. Earned eight starting assignments at inside linebacker and three starts at nickel back.

Finished the season with 23 solo tackles, 45 total tackles and 3.5 quarterback sacks. Ranks as the team’s active career leader with 162 total tackles and 89 solo stops. Posted at least two tackles in every game. Season high tackle totals (8) came against SEC foes Ole Miss and Kentucky.

2013: Ranked among Commodores’ top defensive performers as a first-year starting sophomore. Started every game at OLB, finishing the regular season ranked second on team with 84 total tackles and 11 passes defended, and third with 47 solo tackles. Also registered an interception and one QB sack. Herring was extremely consistent, contributing at least five tackles in 11 of 12 games.

Set career high with 10 total tackles in win over Georgia. In other SEC games, added nine tackles at South Carolina and at Texas A&M, and eight stops vs. Missouri. Posted 8-yard sack among five solo tackles in opener vs. Ole Miss. Interception came in win over UAB. Posted four tackles, including 1.5 stops resulting in lost yards, in Vanderbilt’s 41-24 victory over Houston in the BBVA Compass Bowl.

YOUTUBE: (Highights)

#55 OLB NICHOLAS GRIGSBY 6’0 218 lbs (Turns 24 on 07/02/2016)
https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cgktY6l6fOnsDi6FNio79NoTooc=/0x0:2873×1915/352×235/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47328968/usa-today-8839398.0.jpg

Career.. Total Tackles.. 144.. Solo.. 100.. Int.. 0.. Sacks.. 9.5

http://www.pittsburghpanthers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/nicholas_grigsby_764961.html
2015: Started all 13 games at Star linebacker...finished fourth on the team with 66 tackles and added 9.5 TFLs and 3.5 sacks…tied for the team lead in forced fumbles (two) and fumble recoveries (one) selected third team All-ACC by the coaches. Named the ACC Linebacker of the Week for his performance in Pitt’s season-opening 45-37 win over Youngstown State.

Against YSU, Grigsby compiled 10 tackles, two quarterback sacks and three total TFLs–all career highs. His TFLs went for 19 lost yards and he added one pass breakup and one QB hurry…had nine tackles with a sack assist in a 17-13 win at Virginia Tech, helping Pitt limit the Hokies to just 100 total yards.

2014: Played in all 13 games, starting one…starting assignment came at middle linebacker against Georgia Tech…voted by his teammates as one of three Pitt captains for the 2014 season. Grigsby, who represented the special teams, was the only non-senior selected a captain. totaled 28 tackles, four TFLs and three sacks. tied for the team lead with two forced fumbles.

had four tackles, two TFLs, a four-yard sack and a forced fumble at FIU. had four stops and a seven-yard sack against Houston in the Armed Forces Bowl. with Pitt protecting a 21-16 lead late in the fourth quarter, had a key 10-yard sack on Virginia Tech’s final possession, helping to clinch the win.

http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2016-nfl-draft-military-bowl-scouting-preview-navy-vs-pittsburgh.html
Bottom Line: Grigsby is a versatile linebacker that can play the run, cover and rush the passer. He is a jack of all trades but a master a none meaning that he is not dynamic in any of the three above categories. Will be predominantly a special teams or sub package player at the NFL level. His hard work and leadership skills which led to him being All-ACC and also a team captain will also lead to him making an NFL roster as a UDFA.

#58 OLB CORY LITTLETON 6’3 226 lbs (estimated age 23 DOB n/a)
http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Cory+Littleton+85PNGgGShQ1m.jpg

Career.. Total Tackles.. 176.. Solo.. 99.. Int.. 0.. Sacks.. 12

OVERVIEW: Littleton’s career at “U-Dub” was a bit up and down, moving positions and moving in and out of the starting lineup. But as they say, it’s not about how you start, but where you finish. Littleton’s final year on campus saw him receive honorable mention All-Pac-12 notice as a Sam linebacker, racking up 65 stops, 11 for loss, and six sacks.

He had started all 13 games at defensive end as a sophomore, contributing 62 tackles, 10 for loss and five sacks for the Huskies, but found himself playing less in his junior campaign as a part-time starter. (37 tackles, 3.5 for loss, one sack). Even Littleton’s first year in Seattle was a bit inconsistent, as coaches inserted him into the starting line-up against Oregon after not playing him at all in the first four games of the year. He made six tackles against the Ducks (one for loss), and finished the year with 14 stops, 1.5 for loss.

STRENGTHS: Athletic with long arms and big hands. Has decent closing speed. Sinks hips and accelerates out of his change of direction. Moderate tackle production, but reduced his broken tackles and misses from a year ago. As edge rusher, has some edge bend with flexible ankles, effective shoulder dip and cat­-quick spin move. Credited with 35 pressures and six sacks on the season.

Consistent special teams performer with 19 career tackles. PRO DAY RESULTS: 40-yard dash.. 4.73 seconds.. Vertical.. 32 1/2 inches.. Broad jump: 9 feet, 11 inches. Short shuttle.. 4.39 seconds.. 3-cone.. 7.01 seconds.. Bench.. 17 reps of 225 pounds

WEAKNESSES: Play strength dips well below NFL norm for the position. Plays upright and blockers get under his pads. Allows both tight ends and fullbacks to derail his edge-­setting attempts. Can’t hold the edge and is a liability when teams run downhill at him. Shows some passivity. Needs to be more physical and use his hands to clear himself from blocks.

BOTTOM LINE: Long-limbed, stand-up pass rusher who is built more like a wide receiver than a running back. Littleton showed some pass rush ability this season and his special teams ability may be his best attribute on the next level. However, his thin frame and poor play strength could make him a long­shot to stick on the 53.

YOUTUBE: (Highlights #42)

LINEBACKER- Tier Groupings for the 2016.. 53 Man Roster

MLB] A.OGLETREE 100% Lock to make 53.(Surprise switch from OLB to MLB for the 4th year stud playmaker)
OLB] M.BARRON 100% Lock to make 53.(Hybrid SS/OLB got his payday and now gets to earn full time at OLB]
OLB] A.AYERS 95% Lock to make 53.(Solid experienced veteran backer in his 2nd year of the def system)

MLB] J.FORREST 80% Lock to make 53.(SEC MLB had a solid campaign his final 2 years at Kentucky)
MLB] B.HAGER 80% Lock to make 53.(UDFA played well in 2015 preseason and will be in the mix for 2016)
OLB] C.LYNCH 80% Lock to make 53.(UDFA suprise 53 last year will need to be better to make 53 this time)

OLB] Z.HODGES 60% Lock to make P.Squad.(DE/OLB hybrid signed to Rams P.Squad Oct 2015 ready to breakout?)
MLB] B.CHUBB 60% Lock to make P.Squad(Another UDFA gem by Snead? likely a PS spot vs 2nd year MLB B.Hager)

OLB] M.WELLS 50% Lock to make P.Squad.(2nd year drifter on his 3rd team with the Rams is a real longshot)
OLB] D.HERRING 45% Lock to make P.Squad.(Another SEC LB will try to make some noise and sneak on PS)
OLB] N.GRIGSBY 45% Lock to make P.Squad.(All-ACC player with small stature will be a story if he makes PS)
OLB] C.LITTLETON 45% Lock to make P.Squad(PAC-12 lenky OLB has a career sack of Goff is your typical longshot)

SUMMARY: These are just early June 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 Linebacker Unit is a very important part of the defense and Greg Williams runs a complex scheme. The younger unknown LB’s fighting for a spot will need to very much impress with their special teams abilities to sneak on the practice squad, let alone the final 53.

(How many Linebackers will make the 53?) 6? or the P.Squad 1-2? As we all know, Snead and Fisher will turn over the bottom of the roster at the drop of a hat. Nobody at the bottom of the roster is safe to even make it to the first preseason game. There is only 10 Practice Squad spots available so more than 2 of these Linebackers making the P.Squad is unlikely.