LA Rams news: 2019 offensive line woes have a 2020 silver lining

Fewer new faces mean advantage Rams

Kromer feels that progress is happening, even in this new virtual environment. It is not until May 15th, when the team would have participated in outside organized team activities (OTAs) that the virtual environment will truly slip at creating nearly identical training as previous seasons.

One point that Coach Kromer makes is the fact that the current adversity has pulled the linemen closer together. NFL Fans know that cohesion among offensive linemen can overcome many other challenges. He also pointed out that the NFL did not have the opportunity to practice during the 2011 lockout, so coaches do have techniques and methods to prepare for an NFL season even in this environment.

Keep in mind that NFL rookies, particularly those who are now expected to play a different position than their college days, are at a tremendous disadvantage right now.  Similarly, rookies expected to start for their team’s offensive line this season are facing a huge uphill learning curve. Conversely, the Rams offensive linemen are returning en masse, many of whom have bona fide NFL game experience as starters.  That translates into a huge advantage this season, as those players now have hands-on knowledge of the position, the plays, and the competition in the NFL.

In the end, either the LA Rams will have the opportunity to train up to the same level of other NFL teams, or the lack of time training together will draw down the other NFL teams to the Rams “learn on the fly”  experience of 2019.  No matter which way this offseason turns out, the Rams will be on even footing with all the other NFL teams. In fact, the Rams will have a distinct advantage.  And that is a shiny silver lining for this team.