Rams Roster Review: Alec Ogletree, Linebacker

Alec Ogletree has overcome college suspensions, injuries and run ins with law enforcement to produce a solid start to a productive NFL career. Ogletree was drafted in the first round, 30th overall, by the Rams in the 2013 draft. Ogletree played his college football at the University of Georgia.

Ogletree began his college career as a special teams player and member of the defensive backs unit in 2010. The following year didn’t start well for Ogletree when he broke his foot in the season opener against Boise State. He would miss the next six games. However, Ogletree would step up big in the 2011 SEC Championship game against, then #1 ranked, LSU. Ogletree would increase his stat line each consecutive year in college. He posted 111 total tackles, including a career high three sacks, in 2012.

Nov 16, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams outside linebacker Alec Ogletree (52) during introductions prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Unfortunately, trouble with law enforcement followed Ogletree throughout college. In 2010 he was arrested for charges in connection of a theft case. Then in 2013, leading up to the NFL draft, Ogletree was arrested for DUI in Arizona. This latest arrest undoubtedly brought questions about Ogletree’s character into the draft process. It seems none of that bothered St. Louis as they made him their second first round selection after taking wide receiver Tavon Austin earlier in the round at #8 overall.

Ogletree was injected in the starting lineup as a rookie in 2013. He would play in all 16 games and record 117 combined tackles, 94 solo tackles and 1.5 sacks. He would force six fumbles and take his only interception of the season 98 yards for a touchdown. A very productive rookie campaign.

There was no sophomore slump for this linebacker. 111 combined tackles, 85 solo tackles and four more forced fumbles. He would also manage to grab an additional interception for two on the year. Playing in all 16 games once again, Ogletree is becoming a mainstay of the linebacker corps in St. Louis. He is part of a young, up-and-coming, defensive unit that expects big things in 2015. Ogletree should have a large part in that projected success.