5 reasons to believe LA Rams DB Robert Rochell breaks out in 2022

Reason V: He flashed starting potential as a rookie in 2021

Without question, rookie DB Robert Rochell was one of the most intriguing young prospects on the LA Rams 2021 roster. He earned a 61.9 grade from Pro Football Focus in his rookie season. Had he remained healthy and on the field, his postseason score could have been much higher. He played a variety of roles for the team, but starting five games as a rookie is a credit to him.

He did not just start out of necessity. He was on the field and made the most of it when he was there. Check out his postgame grades after a tough victory against the Detroit Lions

Rochell was not anointed, was never anointed. He earned his starting role on the Rams’ defense and made the most of it when he was there.

Rookie DBs learn sporadically

Of course, he was not perfect. He was, after all, a rookie who was still learning the ropes.  Even while he was learning, he was also contributing. But he was learning in spurts. He would have a good game, followed by an injury or COVID-19 setback, followed by another bit of playing time. He played a total of 234 defensive snaps in the 2021 NFL season, with nearly a third of those, 71 defensive snaps, all falling in a Week 6 performance against the New York Giants.

Suffice it to say that Rochell does not walk on water, nor is the purpose of this article to portray a player who will in 2022. The point of this narrative is simple. The LA Rams have lost a number of very talented defensive backs over the past two seasons, players who started and were very effective in the Rams defense. Right now, many are asking who might step up in 2022.

I believe that Robert Rochell already has for the LA Rams in many ways already. In 2022, it will simply be that much more obvious to everyone.