Who will emerge as the LA Rams’ 2021 breakout player?

Terrell Burgess

Alongside free safety Jordan Fuller, another player that is expected to have a big year is the Rams defensive back, Terrell Burgess. Burgess is coming off a disappointing rookie season after breaking his ankle mid-season last year. Disappointing because Burgess was clearly developing into one of the better defensive backs in the league, and during the Chicago Bears game, he truly appeared to be ready for a larger, if not starting, role with the Rams defense.

His season was unfortunately cut short due to his injury. The coaching staff and his teammates, especially head coach Sean McVay, believe Burgess will have a huge comeback year. So far in training camp this year Burgess has really stood out and has made some big plays in team drills. One of the big plays Burgess made was an interception of a pass from quarterback John Wolford intended for wide receiver DeSean Jackson. Burgess intercepted the pass and took it home for six.

If the second-year safety can stay healthy this year and continue to make big plays, Burgess will see plenty of action. The Rams are starting the season with Taylor Rapp taking over for John Johnson, a role he filled in 2019 as well.

When asked about Terrell Burgess and his performance at training camp, head coach Sean McVay has this to say (see video above at the 3:13 mark):

"He’s been great. He’s got a versatile skillset. He’s the guy that has the ability to play that star, that nickel position. He can play safety. He’s the guy that has even bumped outside and in some situations, at Utah, he can play corner. It’s been great seeing him healthy. He’s just got such a great demeanor, such a great energy. He’s one of those guys who always has a smile on his face. But he’s tough. We’re expecting good things from Terrell this year."

The LA Rams expect big things from Burgess and he is ready to give it his all this season.

Burgess does so many things well for the LA Rams, that it’s truly difficult to grind to granular details. He allows the secondary to mix and disguise coverages. He gives defensive coordinators many more options of what to throw at opposing offenses and quarterbacks. But he also fills multiple roles on defense, essentially adding tremendous value with his roster spot because he gives three players in one.