LA Rams OLB Justin Hollins played too hot to come off the field
By Bret Stuter
Smile and waive
Okay, but how much did the LA Rams have to give up to get this edge rusher sensation. Hmm…, well that’s the beauty of it. The LA Rams picked him up off waivers from the Denver Broncos last year. Yes, that’s right. The field glasses that the Rams data analytics and front office train on the waiver wire of 31 other teams have proven to have landed some incredible players over the year. So, nothing?
Well, he was certainly something last night. On an evening when All-Pro defensive lineman Aaron Donald appeared to have trouble wrapping up and finishing off tackles, Justin Hollins was there to finish things off. And nobody was happier than Aaron Donald himself.
That’s pretty solid stuff for a first-time starter in the Rams defense. As the Rams sought depth at the outside linebacker position in this one and even reinforced the position by activating Justin Lawler from the practice squad, Hollins proved that he had everything in hand.
Was this a momentary flash of brilliance for a young man? Or is this the shape of things to come? Well, this was only one game, but I’d lean more to the latter. After all, this is his third NFL season, and he most certainly fought for and earned a starting role in this defense. Last night was just the first time we all had the opportunity to see just how good he’s become.
And yes, he’s gotten pretty good in the offseason.