3 fringe roster candidates grabbing spotlight in Week 2 of Rams Camp

WR Xavier Smith

Getting positive reports out of training camp that cite another stellar day for speedy WR Xavier Smith is becoming an eveyday event. While not much was said about the team's 'other' speedster, Smith is doing everything humanly possible to ensure that he is getting mentioned alongside teammate, WR Tutu Atwell.

And with Atwell on the last year of his rookie contract, Smith's rising stock may have long-term implications for both Smith and Atwell, as well as for this team. After all, the Rams have long been fascinated with speed, from their trade with the New England Patriots for WR Brandin Cooks, to drafting WR Tutu Atwell, to signing FA WR DeSean Jackson, to signing undrafted WR Xavier Smith.

Unfortunately, with the exception of some episocic success, the Rams have only found sustained success with WR Brandin Cooks. But Cooks was clobbered, and the team feared that a streak of concussions might impact his on-field production over time. Since trading him to the Houston Texans, the team has been looking for a small and speedy receiver who might fill his shoes.

Smith has appeared in the highlights of the Rams training camp on July 27, July 29, and July 30. While three straight days of positive highlights are impressive, this is amplified due to the fact that the team is wearing pads, and that means contact is admissible. Despite that fact, Smith continues to catch everything thrown in his direction.

Three players who were not seen as guaranteed to make the Rams roster appear to be making a very strong case to do so. While there is plenty of training camp to go, I enjoy the pleasant surprises that develop along the way.

Puka Nacua was a huge surprise from the 2023 Rams training camp which went on to set NFL rookie receiving records last season. So it pays to notice players who impress in training camp. As always, thanks for reading.