LA Rams news: Defensive line will determine 2020 success

Oh, Canada!

Rams defensive lineman Michael Hoecht may be an undrafted free agent for the Rams, but he already has a plan B as the 10th overall pick of the second round to play for the CFL’s Ottawa Redblacks. But I have a strong feeling that he’ll find a way to stick around on the Rams’ roster. Despite a 6-foot-4 295-pound frame, he reported registered a 4.65-second 40-yard dash time. That’s truly a blazing speed for a player of his size. That time would make him the third-fastest edge/defensive lineman at the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine.

His reputation is so widespread, even NFL analyst Ian Rappaport weighed in on his signing.

A player of Hoecht’s size with that speed gives the Rams a ton of options. While he played defensive lineman, he did have a background as running back. That means the Rams could opt to slot Hoecht as a defensive lineman, on special teams, or as a secret weapon on the offense as the anticipated fullback. After all, his 40-yard dash time equaled that of running back Zack Moss.

Still, the Rams cannot overlook the fact that he registered 158 tackles and 17 quarterback sacks. Not only did he run quickly, but he put up 23 reps on the bench press. He is a solid strength and speed athlete who will be awfully competitive to make the team this year.