The biggest early surprise in LA Rams training camp is this veteran

The fun part of any journey in the annual LA Rams Training Camp is the surprising performances of players who were not considered strong competitors for a roster spot. While the slope may be steeper for some players, it is not unheard of for someone to arrive, everything clicks, and they find themselves inching higher and higher on the Rams depth chart.

It's common for fans to consider the chances of long-shot rookies in the training camp jockeying for position. But what of those players who missed out on playing time from the previous season, yet return far more prepared and hungry for a contributing role in their second season? While multiple entries could be listed already, we have to turn the focus to a former Florida A&M speedster at wide receiver.

He is tearing it up at training camp so far. And that may be an understatement. But let's dial back the calendar to 2023, and catch this interview of Xavier Smith as he readied for the NFL:

Smith is not lacking confidence, and that is a very good thing. He has been getting limited opportunities so far with the team. But that could all be changing this season.

Similar in size and style to WR Tutu Atwell, this is the time for Xavier Smith to make his move in training camp. And so far that is exactly what he has been doing. Smith has been catching practically every football thrown his way. And that includes training camp sessions on:

• July 27
• July 29
• July 30

Of course, there is plenty of football for Xaver Smith and the LA Rams in the days ahead. Still, strong performances in training camp have to help Smith's chances going forward. And with a strong training camp, you will want to see what he can deliver in preseason games this season.

If you factor in the Rams current presumed set of wide receivers destined to make the team's 53-man roster, you have to consider Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Demarcus Robinson, Tutu Atwell, and rookie Jordan Whittington as almost locks to be on the roster on opening day. That leaves just one roster spot left, and Smith is not the only one fighting for that spot. Tyler Johnson is certainly in the running, as are Rams undrafted rookies.

If rosy report are the determining factor, then Xavier Smith may be at the pole position to earning a roster spot this season. But there is still a lot of football to go. Stay tuned.

As always, thanks for reading.