5 possible surprises from LA Rams training camp

Surprise 4

When the LA Rams drafted rookie outside linebacker Terrell Lewis, defensive end Michael Brockers saw the move as the team choosing his successor.  But the team’s plans for Lewis from the beginning was to line him up as a 3-4 stand-up edge rusher. The team needed someone who could generate quarterback sacks, and Lewis certainly has the right stuff to do exactly that from the outside.

Still, once the 6-foot-5 262-pound rookie from the University of Alabama arrived at the Rams training facility, he was clearly more than just another average edge rusher. He is a big long and powerful defensive player who appears to be someone just as much at home on the defensive line as someone on the edge.

Center stage

No offenses have seen rookie OLB Terrell Lewis play yet. But you can bet they will be looking for him to rotate in on the outside.   So why not will line him up in 3 point stance – over the center? While that should not be a normal spot, it would be deadly effective in his first defensive series. Particularly in that season opener against the Dallas Cowboys.

The Cowboys will already be starting a new center, Joe Looney, this year and may even be starting a new left guard as well. Projected starting left guard Conner Williams is coming off an ACL and has not yet been named the starter. The Rams should give them something to worry about.

Lewis is a big powerful player who gives the Rams so many options, particularly an option to go with him on the defensive line to add a bit of confusion. After all, the Cowboys certainly took advantage of the Rams offensive line woes in 2019.  The Rams definitely owe them payback. Look for this one.