Rams Rookie Stock Report: Week 8

John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

During their 34-7 loss at the Kansas City Chiefs, the St. Louis Rams used many of their rookies in starting roles. Now that the Rams are being thinned by injuries, even more playing time will be given to first year players on the squad. Here is Ramblin’ Fan’s breakdown of the 2014 rookie draft class:

Greg Robinson: Stock UP

Now that the offensive line is in shambles due to injuries to LT Jake Long, RG Rodger Saffold and C Scott Wells, Robinson is a shoe in to stay in the starting lineup for the rest of the season. He took over at left tackle after Long exited with his injury, and it appears he is cemented to stay there for the rest of the season.

Aaron Donald: Stock UP

Donald is putting himself into the defensive rookie of the year conversation. He shot through the line and forced RB Jamal Charles to fumble early on in the game and gave the offense good field position – which they failed to capitalize on. He finished his day with one tackle, one forced fumble and three quarterback pressures.

Lamarcus Joyner: Stock UP

Joyner led the team with ten tackles and he put a couple of big hits on his opponents. Two of his stops came behind the line of scrimmage. He should continue to play in the nickel moving forward. The Rams front office acquired S Mark Barron from the Buccaneers in wake of S Rodney McCleod’s injury.

Tre Mason: EVEN

Mason led the team in carries (7) and rushing yards (32). He clearly has cut himself out a role on the offense. Just how large that role will end up being is yet to be seen. For now the Rams are using their running backs in a committee.

Mo Alexander: EVEN

Inactive. Cody Davis got time in at safety after McCleod left injured. The team then signed Barron from the Bucs. The staff clearly isn’t ready to give Alexander a shot at safety yet.

E.J. Gaines: EVEN

Gaines started again on the outside. He finished with eight tackles (one for loss). He got beat several times by WR Dwayne Bowe and he also missed the chance for a fumble recovery early on. He added two penalties as well.

Trey Watts: EVEN

Watts played on special teams but did not register any statistics.

Ethan Westbrooks: Stock DOWN

Westbrooks was inactive after being in the rotation for several games this season.

Alex Bayer: EVEN

Inactive.

Marcus Roberson: Stock UP

Roberson started opposite Gaines at corner for the first time this season. He played solid and finished with four tackles. Roberson should go back to his typical special teams duties when CB Janoris Jenkins returns from his knee injury.

Check back after the Rams play the 49ers for our Rams Rookie Stock Report for week 9.