Recent Forum Topics › Forums › The Rams Huddle › CoachO: Synopsis of the roster, part one – offense
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August 6, 2014 at 7:37 pm #3433
znModeratorCoachO
Camp report 8/6/14.
A Look at the Roster: QBs; RBs; TEsWith the break in the open practices leading up to Friday’s Preseason opener, I thought I would take a shot at looking at the roster and giving a thumbnail take on the 90 guys fighting to be a part of the 2014 Rams.
So here are my thoughts about each player and their roles thus far in training camp:
Starting with the QBs, RBs & TEs
QB’s (4)
8 Sam Bradford 6’4 224 5 Oklahoma
He has put to rest any concerns about his recovery from the ACL injury. He looks comfortable in the offense. Arm strength only seems to have gotten better. Physically, he is stronger, and looks bigger. Absence of any set backs physically, Bradford is set up to have his best year.
14 Shaun Hill 6’3 220 13 Maryland
Looks exactly like what a professional backup QB should look like. Seems comfortable and doesn’t get rattled. An upgrade over last year’s backup. Arm Strength is ok, good enough to make the throws he has to make, but his experience allows him to put the ball where it needs to be, WHEN it needs to be there.
5 Garrett Gilbert 6’4 221 R Southern Methodist
Before Camp opened, I was questioning whether they keep a 3rd QB on the roster this year. After seeing Gilbert, there is little doubt they have to. He is a pleasant surprise. Good size, better than average arms strength, and the game doesn’t look too big for him at all. Still has issues in the offense at times, but he has displayed nice touch on the intermediate throws, and can improvise when necessary.
9 Austin Davis 6’2 221 2 Southern Mississippi
Has been pretty much the epitome of what is known as a “camp arm”. Has not shown any improvement over last year’s training camp, in which he took a major step back. He gets very limited reps, and when he does, he still struggles to show any command of the offense. Accuracy issues continue. Not likely to last past the 1st round of cuts.
RB’s (7)
30 Zac Stacy 5’8 216 2 Vanderbilt
There is no reason to think he won’t pick up right where he left off in 2013. Decisive and runs hard. Still needs to show improvement in pass blocking, but as long as he can avoid the bumps and bruises that seem to crop up, he should have a great year.
36 Benny Cunningham 5’10 209 2 Middle Tennessee
Appears to be much leaner, but stronger this year. Still has that burst through the hole, and enough speed to break off long runs when he gets in the open. Much improved in blitz pickup. At this point, should be considered the primary back up to Stacy.
24 Isaiah Pead 5’10 197 3 Cincinnati
Was in the mix getting regular reps with all the other RBs. Since injuring his hand, he is limited to Special Teams reps (mostly as kickoff returner, and gunner on the punt team). While I continue to be one of his biggest supporters, even I have to concede that he needs to “show up” in Preseason games or he may be running out of time.
27 Tre Mason 5’8 207 R Auburn
Demonstrates the quick feet and sudden burst, but needs to be more of a north south runner. Has a tendency to want to dance through the hole, and looks to bounce outside more than he should. He wasn’t even a part of the blitz pickup drill, which tells me, his status as a potential 3rd down option isn’t real good. Still has a ways to go to earn a spot on the game day active roster.
34 Chase Reynolds 6’0 200 2 Montana
Just another year in the life of an underdog. It seems he goes into every training camp as the guy they are looking to replace. And yet, he finds a way to show his worth. While not expected to get much work out of the backfield, whenever he gets his turn, he makes plays. He has resurfaced on ALL of the core Special Teams, suggesting to me, that he still is going to be part of this team.
42 Trey Watts 5’11 192 R Tulsa
UDFA who shows flashes when given the opportunity. He hits the hole and has the speed to get in the open field. Has had a couple of breakaway runs. His injury may have derailed some of the momentum he had gained, especially showing up on a couple of 2nd unit Special Teams. He most likely will be one of the guys added to the Practice Squad.
45 Kadeem Jones (FB) 5’11 246 R Western Kentucky
Has yet to get on the practice field, so nothing to report.
TEs (6)
89 Jared Cook 6’5 248 6 South Carolina
He will continue to be an enigma in this offense. With the emergence of the WRs, cook isn’t targeted as often as he was in last year’s camp. But when he is, he is a match up nightmare for anyone not name Ogletree to cover. He still has the ability to get behind LBs, and running up the seam can be lethal. If they WRs continue to progress, it stands to only make Cook that more dangerous working the middle of the field.
88 Lance Kendricks 6’3 247 4 Wisconsin
I would look at this as a big year for Kendricks. He came to camp looking healthier than he has in the past 2 years. Leaner, and appears faster. He has shown vast improvement in his pass catching abilities. Doesn’t drop much if they hit him in the hands. He should play an important role in the offense this year, as they look to employ plenty of two TE sets.
46 Cory Harkey 6’4 260 3 UCLA
He appears to be set as the guy lining up in the backfield as the lead blocker and “move TE”. He is a threat in the passing game, but his primary role will still be as the best blocking TE on the roster. He will also see some time as an in-line TE. Again, a vital piece of what they intend on doing this year.
84 Justice Cunningham 6’3 258 1 South Carolina
Athletic and powerful, he has shown some signs of being one of the real surprises of this year’s training camp. Lining up as Harkey’s backup in most cases, getting his turn in the backfield, as well as being a “move TE”. Inconsistent as a pass catcher at this point, but shows enough athleticism that he can be a threat in the passing game. Also getting plenty of play on Special Teams.
86 Mason Brodine 6’7 284 1 Nebraska-Kearney
Converted from Defensive Tackle, Brodine looks the part of a seasoned TE. Obviously has the size to be an effective in-line blocker, and has shown to be much more athletic than one might expect while running routes. Has decent hands, enough to be at least a threat. Has shown up on Special Teams as well.
82 Alex Bayer 6’4 258 R Bowling Green
Another of the UDFA who has shown he can play at this level. Numbers seemed to be stacked against him, in terms of competing for a roster spot, but should garner serious interest as one of the Practice Squad additions. Good route runner, better blocker.
August 6, 2014 at 7:38 pm #3434znModeratorCoachO
A Look at the Roster: WRs; Offensive Line
WRs (11)
81 Kenny Britt 6’3 215 6 Rutgers
Kenny Britt at this point is the biggest steal of the off season in the entire NFL. As long as he can stay healthy, and his knees hold up, he will be the WR this team has looked for since the days of Holt and Bruce. Big, physical receiver, who brings a lot of emotion to his game. He is the unquestionable leader of this unit, being both the #1 cheerleader for each and every WR on the field, and its most talented receiver. He just carries himself like an NFL receiver, and his attitude has rubbed off on the other guys.
83 Brian Quick 6’3 220 3 Appalachian State
Whether it’s been the influence of Britt, or just being more in tune with what it takes to deliver on the talent that garnered the 33rd pick of the draft, Quick has been the biggest surprise of the entire training camp. It’s not just that he is making plays, its how he is doing it. In the past, if he made a mistake or dropped a pass, he would put his head down and look for a place to hide. This year, he has a swagger about him that makes anyone who see it, realize HE now believes he belongs. More importantly, Bradford seems to trust him. He is often the first option, as opposed to the last in previous camps. Crossing fingers and hope it finally happens for this kid.
11 Tavon Austin 5’8 174 2 West Virginia
If it is at all possible, he looks to be playing faster this year. Getting reps both outside at WR and in the slot, especially when Britt and Quick are on the field. Also being seen on a semi regular basis in the backfield, and getting reps in the run game. I am a little concerned that many of his reps are between the tackles which exposes him to more hits that necessary. Obviously, he will be the primary Punt Returner, and will be as dangerous as ever in that role.
12 Stedman Bailey 5’10 193 2 West Virginia
Being paired with Austin in 2 WR sets, he has continued his development. Seems to be establishing a comfort level with Bradford, and should be part of the mix once he returns from his ill-fated suspension. Still appears to be a core contributor on Special Teams, and actually may be missed there as much or more than on offense.
13 Chris Givens 6’0 198 3 Wake Forest
Givens seem to have lost some of the luster in the eyes of the coaching staff. His reps have been greatly reduced, and he is clearly behind all four of the guys already mentioned. He has come on in recent practices, and seems to be finding his stride. But it looks as if he will be a role player this year, being spotted in certain packages. It would take someone to suddenly have a major setback for Givens to make a significant jump on the depth chart. His route tree is still limited, and it still very gun shy running any routes over the middle. Unless this improves, he will be used in a limited role.
18 Austin Pettis 6’3 207 4 Boise State
Working in tandem with Givens, Pettis has also seen his reps decrease this year. He still shows a certain comfort level with Bradford, but I think he will find it difficult to get on the field. In previous camps, he was “the vet” and was given many of the 1st unit reps. Not the case this year, and it’s pretty apparent his role has changed. He is still a presence in the Red Zone, and may find his reps in those situations. Once his 6’3 fame is what set him apart from the other WRs on the roster. That isn’t the case anymore. While I think his roster spot is safe, it wouldn’t surprise me if he ends up being the odd man out.
19 Justin Veltung 5’11 182 1 Idaho
Veltung seems to be taking advantage of being the last of the holdovers from last year’s roster among the WRs. He is currently backing up Austin in the slot, and is one of the guys being given a hard look as a return man on Special Teams. He has flashed some good hands and has made plays when called upon. Still a longshot to stick on the 53 man roster, if they do in fact keep an extra WR through Bailey’s suspension, that leader at this point appears to be Veltung.
16 Emory Blake 6’0 196 1 Auburn
In much the same position as Veltung, he has gotten most of the 2nd unit reps, while also getting some work in the slot when Veltung sat out the past few days. Best hope for him would be another year on the Practice Squad.
87 T.J. Moe 6’0 200 1 Missouri
Until this week, he has been buried on the Depth Chart, shainng 3rd unit reps with guys like Harris and Franklin. Has stepped up since the Scrimmage on Saturday, and has had his best two practices this week. He may have the best hands on the team, catches EVERYTHING thrown in his direction. While he doesn’t possess great straight line speed, his biggest asset is his quickness. He routine gets open on crossing routes and has the ability with the ball in his hands to get extra yards after catch. At this point, I would say he has to have some WOW moments in the Preseason games, to have a chance to stick. Special Teams contributor, of all the UDFA WRs, he has the most upside.
15 Austin Franklin 5’11 189 R New Mexico State
Franklin has shown flashes of athleticism that makes you think he could eventually play at this level. Way too inconsistent in his route running, and his hands are average. With another year, if he can find his way to another training camp, he may develop. But as will be the case with many of these UDFA, not this year.
10 Jordan Harris 6’2 215 R Bryant University
He just hasn’t gotten enough reps in camp to get any kind of feel for his ability. Which might be all you need to know about his ability. Another camp body who likely won’t survive the first wave of cuts.
Offensive Line (16)
Tackles:
77 Jake Long 6’7 322 7 Michigan
Maybe the biggest piece of the 2104 puzzle. A healthy Jake Long will allow everything and everyone else to fall into place across the O-Line. He appears to be right on schedule (if not ahead) to be on the field for the 2nd or 3rd Preseason Game. His workload has gradually increased, with him participating in the majority of the practice the past two day. Still limited somewhat in the 11 on 11 team stuff the second half of practice, he is in on most of the running game drill they have been running this week.
He looks like he is moving well, and even got dinged on his surgically repaired knee at practice yesterday, came up limping, took a few steps and it was like, OKAY, got that out of the way, my knee is good.
72 Joe Barksdale 6’5 326 4 LSU
Barksdale is as consistent as it gets. The best thing you can say about an Offensive Tackle is he doesn’t get noticed very often. While the defensive scheme has been overwhelming at times with all the blitzes, Barksdale hold his own. In the one on one drills, he really shows up. Should continue to improve as the season gets underway. Just one more piece of what could be a vastly improved unit.
64 Sean Hooey 6’9 304 1 Cincinnati
Maybe the most improved lineman in camp this year, he is noticeably bigger. At 6’9 and 300+ lbs, he is long and has issues with speed rushers. But his reach help him recover, and seems to be entrenched at RT and his skill set may be limited to that side of the ball.
73 Mike Person 6’4 299 4 Montana State
Very versatile lineman, has seen reps at both Guard and Tackle most recently being used at LT on the 2nd unit. Somewhat undersized, and gets physically dominate when inside, as enough athleticism outside to have a chance. At this point, has the inside track to one of the final roster spots.
66 Mitchell Van Dyk 6’7 313 R Portland State
Tall lanky, not strong enough to stand up to NFL pass rushers. Will benefit greatly from a year in an NFL weight room. Has decent feet, and has been given a look at LG this week, more as a fill in with players sitting out practice.
62 R. J. Dill 6’7 310 1 Rutgers
One of the last players brought in, has the size to be considered a potential NFL lineman. Not much else. Routinely beaten on the edge while getting 3rd unit reps at RT. Depending on the injury situation with other players on the line, he may survive the initial cut, but not much more than a camp body.
Guards:
79 Greg Robinson (T/G) 6’5 332 R Auburn
Has shown all the athleticism that garnered him the #2 pick in the NFL draft. Highly reported his day to day activity in getting reps at both LT and LG. Once he gets settled at LG, he has all the signs of being an over powering force inside. He physically manhandles guys, and while he still struggles sometimes with the mental side of things (false starts), and still isn’t playing full speed, once he settles it, the sky is the limit.
76 Rodger Saffold (G/T) 6’5 332 4 Indiana
Another player who’s health is vital to the success of this offense, he showed last year he can be a dominant Guard, and will solidify the interior of this O-Line. Versatile, and has worked more at LG than at his projected RG spot, once Long gets back he should be able to get consistent reps at the RG position. Coming to camp at 332 lbs, it shows. Much bigger, but still quick on his feet. One of the leaders of the unit.
69 Davin Joseph 6’3 313 9 Oklahoma
He appears to be recovered from his knee issues. Has missed ONE day of practice, and has taken virtually EVERY snap at RG with the starters. Has a reputation for having a nasty streak about him, in the way he plays the game, it shows in how he attacks his man. Should provide valuable insurance in the event they experience the past health issues on the starting unit. Not saying it will happen, but It wouldn’t shock me either, if they started the season with Joseph at RG, and Saffold at LG.
60 Travis Bond 6’6 330 1 North Carolina
A big & powerful guy, he has been locked in at RG with the 2nd unit since the second day of training camp. Moves well for his size, and is a dominant run blocker. One of those guys when he gets his hands on you, it’s over. Has been a pleasant surprise for me. Could be a guy who manages to make the team, especially if they keep 10.
70 Brandon Washington 6’2 318 2 Miami
One of the holdover from last year, he has missed some valuable time sitting out the past week. His days may be numbered, as I think they have brought in players that have passed him up. He stuck in the past, because he was the best of what was a very thin group, and that’s not necessarily the case now. If he gets back on the field, he could compete with Bond for the last spot.
68 D.J. Morrell 6’6 325 R Old Dominion
Another of that last group of players brought right before camp started, like Dill, he is not much more than a camp body. Doubtful he survives the first cut.
Centers:
63 Scott Wells 6’2 300 11 Tennessee
Another key component on THIS YEAR’S offensive line, he has missed significant time for the 3rd straight training camp. Along with Jake Long, he is working his way back into the mix, getting substantial work in teams drills this past week. Having Wells on the field will be a key, as his experience lining up next to Robinson will go a long way in bringing the talented rookie along. Wells looks good in drills, and his experience will allow him to step right in. He can be effective in pas protection, and with the two big bodies on each side of him, should be much better in the running game in getting to the second level.
61 Tim Barnes 6’4 306 3 Missouri
Has received more reps than anyone on the entire offensive line. With Wells being limited early in camp, to now having Jones M-I-A, Barnes is on the field A LOT. He is bigger and stronger this year, and looks much more confident. He should provide dependable depth at Center, and can play guard if needed. Very good as a shot gun center, he is showing why he has now been in an NFL camp 4 straight year. Also included on the 1st unit Kickoff and FG/XP units.
67 Barrett Jones 6’4 306 2 Alabama
He came to training camp as one of the most polarizing players on the team. He benefited from his time in the weight room, and reshaped his physique and looked much more like an NFL lineman than he did last year. He was involved in a daily rotation with Barnes for the backup center spot, but has been injured, and hasn’t been on the field since before the scrimmage. His injury may be more serious than anyone is admitting to, and I wouldn’t be surprised to hear he finds his to IR.
65 Demetrius Rhaney 6’2 301 R Tennessee State
This team’s last player picked in the NFL draft, he shows surprising athleticism. He has gotten a look at both Center and Guard, he has had his moments, both good and bad. Seems to have the strength to hold up to the bigger bodies of the NFL, but struggles against the quicker guys (Donald). Should be a guy who they have interest in adding to the Practice Squad.
August 6, 2014 at 9:49 pm #3441
jimiramsboyParticipantThe only thing I would contest is that TJ Moe from my alma matter is a body catcher and I think has little chance to make this or any NFL roster….which is a shame but the kid belongs in the CFL
Twitter handle is @jimiramsboy
August 6, 2014 at 9:59 pm #3442znModeratorThe only thing I would contest is that TJ Moe from my alma matter is a body catcher and I think has little chance to make this or any NFL roster….which is a shame but the kid belongs in the CFL
So that shapes it up to…Britt Bailey Quick Austin for sure
Pettis/Givens if they keep 5
Pettis & Givens if they keep 6.
Don’t know how they will do the roster before Bailey comes back.
August 6, 2014 at 11:00 pm #3447jimiramsboyParticipantIf there is one kid I would urge you all to look for on Friday that is kind of an unknown it would Emory Blake…I think given the right circumstances he might be able to make a move on the roster
Twitter handle is @jimiramsboy
August 7, 2014 at 4:35 pm #3508
CoachOParticipantThe only thing I would contest is that TJ Moe from my alma matter is a body catcher and I think has little chance to make this or any NFL roster….which is a shame but the kid belongs in the CFL
With all due respect, I disagree with your assessment of Moe being a body catcher. He has demonstrated very good and soft hands. One of the things that is evident, is there is virtually little to no sound when the ball hits his hands, while MOST receivers tend to fight the ball, hearing a distinct THUD sound when they catch a pass.
In three weeks of camp, he has caught everything thrown in his direction, while displaying his knack for creating enough space to get open more often than not.
August 7, 2014 at 5:09 pm #3512
NERamParticipant11 Tavon Austin 5’8 174 2 West Virginia
If it is at all possible, he looks to be playing faster this year. Getting reps both outside at WR and in the slot, especially when Britt and Quick are on the field. Also being seen on a semi regular basis in the backfield, and getting reps in the run game. I am a little concerned that many of his reps are between the tackles which exposes him to more hits that necessary. Obviously, he will be the primary Punt Returner, and will be as dangerous as ever in that role.
Not sure if its just me, but isn’t that kinda like taking a Corvette off-roading through the woods? Why tempt fate?
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