7 LA Rams players happy to help Donald carry the load

Defender 3:  NT Robinson

When the LA Rams signed free agent defensive lineman A’Shawn Robinson, the hope was that Robinson could be an instant impact, perhaps fitting into a role much like Ndamukong Suh filled for the team. After seeing just how well Donald played with a second larger-than-life defensive lineman, the Rams hoped to duplicate that same experience with a less expensive version.

That didn’t exactly pan out, as Robinson missed the first eight games of the season due to a non-football related injury. Even after he was cleared to play, the Rams have been reluctant to play him more than 20 defensive snaps in a game. While that could be his need to play catchup with his teammates in grasping the defense, he may simply be on a limited snap count.

The time is now

While Robinson has been a modest part of the defensive rotation,he was one of the players that the Rams used in Donald’s absence. Robinson responded well. He recorded four tackles, the most he’s had in one game for the Rams all season. And he was a roadblock for the Seahawks, even when launching double-teams at him. Robinson held his ground, forcing the Seahawks to choose another route when running toward the line of scrimmage.

Robinson is a key factor in the Rams game this weekend. He has played a game at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers in three of the past four seasons.  He’s recorded 12 tackles in those three games, but he shined in 2019, where his seven tackles were just one tackle shy of his career high. He would be one of the logical choices for an increased role against the Packers. Not only is he well-versed in defending against that offense, but he is a huge asset in run defense.