3 reasons why OLB Michael Hoecht is due for the Floyd effect in 2024

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II: He has been tasked with every role of the position

While the slip ups seem to be the most recollected task by Michael Hoecht that fans cite, the truth of the matter is that he has been a rather remarkable success story that not only gives credit to himself in his ability to pivot from a three-point stance as a down lineman to a two-point stance 3-4 outside linebacker, but every snap of the football bears witness to the quality of coaching that he has received along the way to get there.

One of his main positional coaches was current Rams Defensive Coordinator Chris Shula.

As such, Shula knows fully what his veteran outside linebacker is capable of, and what he is not capable of. Knowing this, he directed the team to re-sign Hoecht to the 2024 defense. Hoecht's return was not something that the team had originally planned to do, it turns out:

Honestly I was surprised to initially hear they weren’t planning to do this (reported that last week) because I think Hoecht helps them out in a couple areas and certainly is someone who sets a tone workwise in practices. He has done every job they’ve asked him to do. A reward. https://t.co/gBTBXrGSxG
— Jourdan Rodrigue (@JourdanRodrigue) March 13, 2024

That was a curious take, because the team needed to bolster the pass rush this season. While Hoecht's 6.0 quarterback sacks did not lead the NFL, they are six sacks that the defense will not need to find elsewhere.

But above and beyond what Hoecht's stats were in 2023, the team is wise to ensure that a guy who can perform as a starter in both the regular season and in the postseason remains with this defense. After all, Hoecht did manage to put up three tackles, and 1.0 QB sacks against the Detroit Lions. That is the type of experience that could prove to be quite valuable in 2024.

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