2017 Rams Roster Preview: Counting On DB Blake Countess

https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2017/6/23/15849222/2017-la-rams-roster-preview-blake-countess-auburn-michigan

2017 Rams Roster Preview: Counting On DB Blake Countess
The sixth-round pick for the Eagles in the 2016 NFL Draft is looking to make the Rams’ roster for the 2017 season.
by Elijah Kim

Blake Countess has been all over the place.

A former Michigan Wolverine and Auburn Tiger, Countess excelled on the collegiate field for two powerhouse programs. A coveted high school prospect from the Washington, D.C., area, Countess was highly regarded for his speed and athleticism. As the Los Angeles Rams brought in a lot of defensive back help, Countess will look to impress a new staff after finishing last season as a fill-in player for the depleted Rams secondary.

Roster Battle
The defensive back position group is a confusing one. With multiple players likely playing various roles (including Countess who played cornerback and safety in college), it’s hard to know exactly what new Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips has planned for everyone. It’s certain that Trumaine Johnson, Kayvon Webster, Lamarcus Joyner, and even John Johnson are locks for the 53-man roster. That leaves limited room for returning guys like E.J. Gaines, Mike Jordan, Troy Hill, and free agent addition Nickell Robey-Coleman. Countess’ versatility may actually serve him well as Phillips seems to like players like Joyner who is expected to play safety and nickel corner.

Expectations
Expect to see a hungry second-year player who can play multiple roles in the secondary.

At Michigan and Auburn, Countess was used at both safety and corner. In his limited time with the Rams last year, he was consistently burned but still competed down the stretch of the season.

Per Mel Kiper, Countess has some decent ball skills and is a “tough kid”. A former late 2016 NFL Draft pick with the Philadelphia Eagles who didn’t make their 53-man roster last year, Countess is hungry for a steady opportunity to shine.

Chances of Making Final Roster (3/10)
Countess may have the collegiate pedigree, but there is a reason why he wasn’t able to stick with the team that drafted him in his rookie year.

Phillips seems to trust a handful of guys already and brought in some free agents that fit his mold better. It’ll be a large uphill battle for Countess, but I think he’ll be among the last cuts.

• This topic was modified 7 years, 6 months ago by JackPMiller.
• This topic was modified 7 years, 6 months ago by JackPMiller.