Top reasons to meet 3 undrafted free agents on LA Rams roster

Running Back Xavier Jones, SMU

The 5-foot-10 212-pound running back from SMU was a crucial part of the Mustangs offense as the team made a run for the AAC Championship last season. Jones was a two-time 1000 yard rusher in college, and scored 25 touchdowns in 2019 (23 rushing, 2 receiving). That smashed the school record for points in a season and allowed Jones to tie Eric Dickerson and Doak Walker’s mark in career points (288).

Let’s talk a little bit about Jones’ style: Jones is an incredibly shifty running back with an uncanny stop-and-go ability. Like a home run hitter, he’s capable of taking one to the house every play. I don’t think he’s the fastest running back on the team, but he brings a good blend of speed and strength to the field – not to mention the flashy shiftiness.

More than a rusher

Jones also brings a receiving element to the team. He has a good pair of hands and was useful as a check-down option out of the backfield.

Why did Jones go undrafted? Well, he took two injuries at SMU, one in 2016 (played just two games, hamstring and shoulder injuries) and another one in 2018 (played just 10 games, struggled to get on the field). Being healthy is a big deal in the eyes of the NFL, especially for skill position players.

Jones might not normally make the gameday active list this season. In fact, the only reason that he may have made the initial 53 man roster is because of the injuries that Darrell Henderson Jr has struggled with all throughout camp. Still, I think that Jones is an excellent depth player to have around the team. If he gets a chance to play, he will shine.