Tommy Mo and I had the opportunity to check out the Los Angeles Rams training camp this past week. Here are some key takeaways from what we witnessed:
1. Matthew Stafford looked good in his passing drills and team scrimmage. The ball was coming out of his hands quickly and smoothly. Stafford injured his hand at the end of the practice day but all accounts are that the injury is not considered to be serious.
Stafford taking part in light passing drills with the QB unit to get started pic.twitter.com/pHDIYFKdOw
— The Undroppables (@TheUndroppables) August 2, 2021
2. Darrell Henderson is practicing as the team’s unquestioned lead running back in the wake of Cam Akers’ season-ending Achilles injury. Henderson looked crisp in the receiving drills.
Darrell Henderson and the RBs at work. pic.twitter.com/hxQ9jRp8NR
— The Undroppables (@TheUndroppables) August 2, 2021
3. Xavier Jones looks to be the clear backup to Darrell Henderson at the moment. Jones was second in snaps and drills. But don’t write off Jake Funk who flashed in both special teams and receiving drills. Funk broke one loose during kick return drills and looks fluid in the passing game.
Jake Funk on a swing route in warmups, looking good today, he’ll most likely make the team on special teams but he’s looking fast and working for his roster spot pic.twitter.com/p7dvK0iqse
— The Undroppables (@TheUndroppables) August 2, 2021
4. Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp are already looking like they are in midseason form. The WR duo showcased great footwork and route running in their drills.
5. Desean Jackson seems to be healthy and syncing well with Stafford. If Jackson can stay healthy, he’ll be a bargain as a late round pick in drafts this year, especially in bestball formats. D-Jax was also a vocal leader during WR drills, showing off that veteran presence.
6. Tyler Higbee is the unquestioned starter at tight end. With that said, keep it locked on Jacob Harris who possesses a rare blend of size and speed. Harris was fun to watch during team drills and Coach Sean McVay was giving focused attention to Harris throughout the day.
7. Jordan Fuller and Tyler Rapp were the safeties for the first team defense against the offense. Fuller has the green dot, putting him in command of the defense.