Rams Add Depth at Linebacker With Carlos Thompson Signing

The Los Angeles Rams signed linebacker Carlos Thompson to the team on Wednesday.

One of the reasons why expectations were high for the defense of the Los Angeles Rams heading into the 2016 season was due to an underrated defense that played a key role in helping the team finish with a 7-9 record the year before. While the unit certainly looked impressive at times, it’s safe to say the Rams’ defense took a step back last year, but hopefully all of that will change now that Wade Phillips is calling the shots as the team’s new defensive coordinator after spending the last two years with the Denver Broncos.

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Over the last few weeks, Los Angeles has made numerous key additions for Phillips’ defense, including former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Connor Barwin and former Denver Broncos cornerback Kayvon Webster. However, the Rams hope the addition of Carlos Thompson at linebacker can turn into one of those under the radar signings that turn into a huge steal for the 2017 season.

Thompson’s NFL resume may not be anything to brag about after originally signing with the Houston Texans in 2015 as an undrafted free agent, and only appearing in two games before being cut prior to the start of last season. But Los Angeles wouldn’t have been willing to bring him on board at this stage in the offseason if Phillips didn’t believe he was capable of getting the best out of the former Mississippi standout.

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Believe it or not, the Rams were considered one of the winners of free agency after improving the offensive line with the addition of Andrew Whitworth along with the signing of Robert Woods to provide Jared Goff with another weapon in the passing game. Whether Thompson builds a stronger case for Los Angeles having a strong offseason in free agency, fans will just have to wait and see how this move pans out over the next few months leading up to the regular season.