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It wasn’t the prettiest win, but it was a win all the same. The Rams held off the Bucs 19-17 in Tampa for their first win of the season. Week two gave us yet another look at the rookie class that has seen its share of ups and downs the past few weeks. Here is Ramblin’ Fan’s rookie stock report for the St. Louis Rams after week two of the NFL season:
Greg Robinson: Stock DOWN
Robinson was relegated to the sideline after G Rodger Saffold returned to the starting lineup. Unless the starting group really struggles, Robinson will likely stay where he is.
Aaron Donald: Stock UP
Donald improved on his already impressive outing against the Vikings in his second NFL start. Donald didn’t play a ton of snaps but he was disruptive. He got pressure on passing downs but he played even better against the run. This week he had another play where he flew through the line and hogtied the ballcarrier for a big loss. Early on Donald is one of the most impactful rookie among his first year teammates.
Lamarcus Joyner: EVEN
Joyner was not able to go because of a back injury that kept him out of practice last week. He was not activated for the game.
Tre Mason: EVEN
Inactive.
Mo Alexander: Stock UP
Alexander was activated this week and saw his first official action on special teams. He did not register any statistics.
E.J. Gaines: Stock UP
Gaines started on the outside again while CB Trumaine Johnson recovers from his injury. Gaines finished with six tackles (tied for most on the team) and he also registered half a sack, a quarterback hit and a tackle for loss. He looked solid in coverage against WR Vincent Jackson, who was held to only four catches for 51 yards.
Trey Watts: EVEN
Inactive.
Ethan Westbrooks: Stock UP
After being inactive last week against the Vikings, Westbrook suited up against the Bucs in wake of Long’s ankle surgery. He rotated on the defensive lone along with Alex Carrington, Aaron Donald and Eugene Sims. He did not register a tackle.
Alex Bayer: EVEN
Inactive.
Marcus Roberson: Stock UP
Roberson handled special teams duties and registered one tackle against Tampa Bay.
Check back next week after the Rams play the Cowboys for rookie updates.