How these 2 DL blocker gobblers mean everything for Rams defensive success

Rams NT Bobby Brown III's quest to carry on the legacy

When he was selected by the LA Rams with the 117th overall pick in Round 4 of the 2021 NFL Draft, the world of opportunities seemed to be opening for former Texas A&M defensive tackle Bobby Brown III. After all, he was selected by the same defense that boasted his NFL hero, DT Aaron Donald. And he was coming to play for best DL coach in the NFL in Coach Eric Henderson.

But the road has not been easy for Brown since his arrival. Minor injuries derailed his development in his rookie season, setting his progress on hold until he was medically cleared to return to football activities. His second season was derailed by a six-game suspension that benched him and forced him to play catch-up when he returned. Even Year 3 was impacted by a minor injury that kept him off the football field for four games.

Now, he is entering the fourth and final year of his rookie contract. He no longer has the chance to play alongside the now retired Aaron Donald. He no longer has the opportunity to play for Coach Henny, who has taken on a role with USC's coaching staff. Now, it's up to Bobby Brown III to find a path to make a positive impact on this defense.

And after so many false starts, I think he has a huge season in him.

NT Bobby Brown is a huge defensive lineman, standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 332 pounds. While he did not have THAT type of season in 2023, he did show enough production to warrant some optimism for a strong fourth season. In just 313 defensive snaps in 2023, he put up 31 tackles, 0.5 QB sacks, nad two quarterback pressures. If its merely a function of opportunity, he is on track to put in 500-600 defensive snaps in 2024, as long as he is productive in his role.

I think he will be. It has been clear that NT Bobby Brown III is making efforts to improve his ability to get after the quarterback in his contract year. When former Rams NT Sebastian Joseph-Day took a similar approach to his pass rushing in the last year of his rookie contract, He managed to record 3.0 QB sacks in just seven games and 341 defensive snaps.

Bobby Brown III must make his last stand in 2024, and he is very hungry to play football once more. Until now, he had the opportunity to play a supporting role. Now, he is one of the defense's leading roles. Sometimes that makes no difference. Other times, it makes all the difference in the world. Look for a new Bobby Brown III to take the football field in 2024.

After all, there are no more 'next season's left.

Thanks for reading.