Rams fans left heartbroken as beloved rookie’s fight for spot hits harsh reality

The Los Angeles Rams coaching staff has made the tough calls to shave the team's roster down from the 90-man training camp assembly to a 53-man roster. While nobody who was in the room where decisions were made is talking, the challenges of distilling so much talent down to the optimal 53 players had to be one of the toughest tasks this team has ever faced.

The front office did its job, as usual. It filled in thin depth without relying exclusively on free agency or the draft. This team was constructed from every source, with players who had three very common elements. They showed an aptitude for the game, they were talented, and they played with passion.

That made the releases of a final few players that much more painful, such as rookie ILB Chris "Pooh" Paul Jr., who was rumored to be released hours before the official announcement.

Why Chris "Pooh" Paul Jr's release stings Rams fans so harshly

Fans had been searching for some relief for the inside linebacker position. The team had lost Ernest Jones before the start of the 2024 season, and it never seemed to recover. Yes, Nate Landman signed on. But as soon as the team drafted Paul Jr., the optics changed considerably.

This is a sobering reminder that the trials and tribulations of hopeful NFL players are not limited to young men alone. The decisions that impact so many players affect their families and friends. Even as the first rumored report broke about the fate of Pooh Paul Jr.'s potential release, his father seemed to be carrying a heavy load as well.

It's not as though Pooh Paul didn't play well. He appeared in three preseason games and recorded 15 tackles, many against starting NFL offenses. Throughout his appearances, he seemed to have total command of the defense, a tactician who was in the right place at the right time to make plays. Fans who saw Paul perform did not see a football player hoping to make the team. They experienced hope over what this defense might become someday.

Now that the roster purge is over,16 players can return via the practice squad. The Rams will wish to re-sign the 22-year-old to the practice squad as quickly as possible. But as is often the case, a savvy NFL team can claim him off the waiver wire, allowing him to achieve his dream playing for another team.

Like many players, Paul gave his best effort to make the team. Here's to hoping one day that becomes a reality. As always, thanks for reading.

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