Rams Reveal 1st Depth Chart: Top Takeaways from Initial Look
Ahead of their preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday, the Los Angeles Rams have revealed their first depth chart with the regular season just a few weeks away.
The Rams are coming off a 5-12 season and experienced some significant losses to the roster this offseason. The team mutually parted ways with All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner after just one season, while Pro Bowl receiver Allen Robinson II was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers after just a single season in L.A. as well.
Roster departures as well as the arrival of some new faces makes the Rams' first depth chart an interesting study, though one that should of course be taken lightly until the team takes the field in Week 1 on the road against the Seattle Seahawks.
Here's the depth chart and three main takeaways Rams fans should keep an eye on:
1. L.A.'s 2022 draft haul could be paying off
The Rams used four of their eight draft picks last season on defensive backs, with only fourth-round pick Cobie Durant having a notable rookie year. But it's clear that the coaching staff has seen significant growth from that draft class this offseason.
Along with Durant, sixth-round corner Derion Kendrick and seventh-round safety Russ Yeast are currently listed as starters, at least according to the version provided. If this holds up, the Rams will be deploying a young secondary in Week 1 against an elite Seattle receiving corps, but this will be the first chance of many to show that these second-year guys are ready to take things to the next level.
2. Tutu Atwell ready to take next step?
Due to injuries and L.A.'s dwindling playoff hopes, Atwell got tons of important reps at the end of last season before finishing with 18 catches for 298 yards and one touchdown.
He's listed as the No. 3 receiver on the depth chart, beating out Ben Skowronek for now. It's also significant that Atwell is not listed as the first- or second-string returner on punts and kickoffs, which could mean the team wants to use him more exclusively on offense and avoid the risk of injury on special teams given his potential importance.
3. Rams confident in rookies
The Rams currently have three rookies listed as starters on the first depth chart. Second-rounder Steve Avila played mostly center in college, but is currently the starter at left guard. Third-round pass-rusher Byron Young is also listed as a starter at outside linebacker, which could result in him getting some early chances at sacks due to the attention Aaron Donald will command.
Additionally, third-round defensive tackle Kobie Turner is in the starting spot at nose tackle, but that's up in the air due to the presence of the odd "OR" in between his name and Bobby Brown III.
Regardless of whether these rookies begin the season as starters, it's clear the Rams have plans in place to give them a chance at making an impact this season.
You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7
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