5 breakout defensive stars for LA Rams Coach Staley in 2020

OLB Lewis

Outside linebacker Terrell Lewis was one of our favorite edge rushers from the 2020 NFL Draft. But in virtually all of our mocks leading up to draft day, Lewis was selected at 52, and never lasted until round three.  His fall to the 84th pick of the 2020 NFL Draft has been attributed to concerns about his health. But in all honesty, there was much more going on in the early rounds of the 2020 NFL Draft than imperfect medical information.

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The draft was loaded with wide receivers, quarterbacks, defensive backs, offensive tackles, and even defensive linemen. With mini-runs occurring throughout the NFL Draft, edge rusher Terrell Lewis was a secondary target for teams. Fortunately for the LA Rams, they were able to call his name in round three.

Yes, Terrell Lewis was injured in Alabama. He suffered an elbow injury, followed by an ACL injury the following year. In a year with many concerns over incomplete medical histories, and plenty of talented alternatives, Lewis was simply a casualty of timid NFL general managers who opted for above-average players with relatively certain NFL futures than high-ceiling players who may have greater injury risks.  Fortunately for the Rams, Lewis’ upside was too attractive to look-away from.

Let’s discuss that upside. Lewis flashed elite potential at college and will slide into a custom-built role for him in the NFL. He will be coached by two of the best outside linebacker coaches in the NFL: defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, and linebackers coach Joe Barry.  He will play opposite veteran OLB Leonard Floyd and be the primary pass-rusher off the edge alongside defensive lineman Aaron Donald.

For all of the “if he stays healthy” warning labels on this guy, he will absolutely begin his NFL career with a huge impact.  That floor could be at the Clay Matthews level where he is proficient but perhaps not headlining, but he will hold his own for the Rams for as their primary pass rusher. On the other hand, his upside is much more, particularly in years two and three. The LA Rams sought a competent edge rusher in the 2020 NFL Draft. What they found is a player who has the perfect scenario to become an NFL elite player.