LA Rams released players quickly claimed by other teams

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Packers claim OLB Justin Hollins

There was no doubt that versatile OLB Justin Hollins would be claimed by an NFL team. The only question in my mind was which team would do so. The Green Bay Packers (4-7) are struggling nearly as much as the LA Rams this season, despite boasting a solid pass defense.

The Packers have been decimated by their rushing defense, a category in which the Rams have been rather stout this season. But also on their shopping list is pass rushers, and the Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator, Joe Barry, is intimately knowledgeable of the capabilities of former Rams OLB Justin Hollin. You see, Barry was the linebackers coach under then-defensive coordinator Brandon Staley.

Former #Rams LB Justin Hollins was just claimed by the #Packers, source said. Another defensive claim by GB.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 23, 2022

Barry knows how hard Hollins plays. Hollins is a solid defender, a fundamentally sound edge rusher who can get to the quarterback, set the edge, and even provide adequate pass coverage on the flat.

Trending. LA Rams Justin Hollins may be more dangerous than you think. light

Packers pick up scarce pass rusher

As the Packers’ defensive coordinator, Barry knows the value and scarcity of getting a solid pass rusher. Right now, the Packers are tied with the LA Rams, Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, and Houston Texans at 17th place in quarterback sacks with 22. Their pass rush just got better, while the LA Rams’ pass rush just got weaker.

Even rotational pass rushers can be vital to a strong defense. Recall the contribution of LA Rams’ former players like DE Morgan Fox, OLB Samson Ebukam, and even OLB Ogbonnia Okoronkwo. The Rams’ pass rush has not suddenly plummeted. Rather, the Rams roster has been diluted by the loss of valuable rotational players, without the investment that is necessary to sustain getting after the quarterback. Neither of the two most recently drafted players, OLB Daniel Hardy nor OLB Chris Garrett, has helped the Rams so far.

That is why the Packers jumped on the chance to add Hollins. He also may not be a pro bowler, but he is a veteran pass rusher with significant NFL Playoff experience who can contribute in a rotational role.

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