Is this IOL Austin Blythe’s last hurrah with the LA Rams?

What does the future hold?

Ah yes, the future is now. The LA Rams re-signed Austin Blythe to a one-year deal. Is that a prove-it deal? Or is simply a “we don’t have your replacement ready yet”? In either case, this is a contract year for Austin Blythe. It’s a one-time shot to audition for the LA Rams and 31 other NFL teams that he has everything it takes to play at, and start, at three offensive line positions for an NFL team.  That is a huge skillset for the resume and a huge opportunity for the player. But let’s not show him the door just yet.

Blythe is the right age, entering his fifth season, to lead the LA Rams offensive line in this next chapter.  He has played with the Rams for three seasons and started 32 games. He has plenty of football left in him. But what quality of football will that be? Will he rebound to the healthy solid starter bordering on Pro-Bowl quality in 2018? Or will he settle for the injury-plagued confused appearance of 2019?  If I were a betting man, I’d say the former. Just listen to this podcast by Rams J.B.Long’s interview  of Blythe. He’s solid.

Offensive line status

The Rams starters on the offensive line have shaken out even without OTAs.  The likely starters, for now, are LT Andrew Whitworth, LG Austin Corbett, C Austin Blythe, RG David Edwards, and RT likely Rob Havenstein, although Bobby Evans may compete effectively if Havenstein struggles.  That means the Rams will be looking for versatile backups in camp. If either Brian Allen or Joseph Noteboom continue to suffer the effects of last year’s injuries, I can see either or both parked on injured reserve to start the season.  Tremayne Anchrum and Cohl Colbert will likely be heading to the practice squad if either fails to make the Rams roster.

For 2020, the return of Austin Blythe continues to gain luster. He is a seasoned veteran and knows the Rams offense. He is healthy this year. And he’ll be playing the position he is training to play. Does that simply mean a flash of brilliance to end his career? Or will 2020 serve as a spark to reignite his NFL career’s next chapter at the center position? There’s plenty of time to decide. For now, it appears that he will be the starting center for the LA Rams for the 2020 season. And for now, that is enough.