NFL
By: George Lopez
On Tuesday, August 1st, I attended the Los Angeles Rams training camp. This was the 2nd day in camp the Rams were in full pads. Walking around the facility, there is renewed optimism among Rams fans that the team will bounce back from the 2022 season where the Rams were hit hard with injuries and finished with a 5-12 record. Fans were looking forward to seeing their favorite players in action as well as seeing new players on the team.
Fans were extremely excited to see quarterback Matthew Stafford as a full participant in camp this year. After an injury-plagued 2022 season, fans we interested to see how Stafford looked throwing the ball. During passing drills, fans let their happiness be known each time Stafford completed a pass to WR Cooper Kupp. Seeing Stafford and Kupp on the same field, completing passes brought back memories of the 2021 Superbowl season. Halfway through practice, fans noticed Kupp was no longer participating on the field. Later in the day, the Rams announced Kupp had to leave practice due to a hamstring injury. There is concern that Kupp could miss weeks with the injury. The Rams have announced they are going to be cautious with Kupp and not rush him back to the field.
There was disappointment among the fans as Aaron Donald was not a participant in practice. Donald was not out due to an injury. It was an off day for Donald. Though he was not in pads, Donald could be seen on the sidelines actively engaged with the defensive lineman when they came off the field. Donald looks ready to bounce back from the 2022 season that was ended early due to injuries.
Fans at the practice were eager to see the 2023 draft picks in action. Rookie edge rusher Bryon Young look impressive during 11 on 11 competition. RB Zach Evans showed elusiveness and good acceleration coming out of the backfield. Working with the 2nd unit, OG Steve Avila displayed his pass-blocking skills that didn’t allow a sack last season at TCU. The most intriguing rookie fans were eager to see was quarterback Stetson Bennett. During individual position drills, Bennett had some issues with accuracy, as some of his passers were missing the mark. The Rams believe being able to observe and learn from Stafford will be a tremendous boost for Bennett’s development.
During the 11 on 11 competition, the offensive line continued to struggle. For a majority, of the 11 on 11, the defense was able to penetrate the offensive line and disrupt the running game. For the most part, the pass protection looked better than last season, though the offensive line still has more work to do to become a more cohesive unit. Overall, Coach Sean McVay was not happy with the effort as he could be seen on the field expressing frustration with the offense when they struggled to execute.
In the 2023 season, the Rams will be replacing quite a few starters from last year’s team. During training camp, a mixture of veterans and younger players will be competing for playing time. A major goal for the Rams is the team comes out of camp healthy with all players ready to go opening week. Fans are excited about the upcoming season as they expect a healthy Rams team to be in the mix for a playoff spot in what will be a tough NFC conference this season. Gear up for the season with our partners over at the NFL Shop and support NBS Media and me.
