Preseason gave clearest sign yet that Rams rookie is ready for a breakout

The Los Angeles Rams have had a linebacker problem almost from the moment they hired Chris Shula to take over as the team’s new defensive coordinator. From that instant, the defensive strategy was no longer familiar to ILB Ernest Jones. Things were changing, and they still are.

2024 left both fans and the team searching for answers — effective ways to address the new specs for the inside linebacker position. Since it was all new to the Rams’ front office, they attacked the problem in multiple ways, signing a veteran free agent and welcoming back players from 2024.

But the front office was ready to tackle the challenge by adding rookies into the mix. First-year inside linebackers often arrive with the right basic tools and can be coached up to fit the role exactly as the Rams defense needs. With that in mind, the team selected Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr. in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Mississippi.

Rams beat writer Erik Lambkins II had plenty of positive things to say about the rookie after the team's first preseason game. He described Paul as a "disruptive NFL identity," who displayed the three C's of leadership: Command, Control, and Communication.

Pooh Paul Jr. might just be Rams' next star linebacker

With the team choosing to sit ILBs Nate Landman, Omar Speights, and Troy Reeder, they needed to bestow the green dot (defensive play-calling duties) to someone. The logical choice was Pooh Paul Jr., a player who has already shown command of this defense.

On the first unofficial Rams depth chart, Paul Jr. sits in a tier that could be cut if the team keeps only four players at the position. But don’t write him off just yet. The defense is still evolving, and the 22-year-old was drafted for what the team will need this season, not what it used to need.

Paul was tireless, relentless, and covered as much ground as a defensive back. He finished with five tackles and showed coaches, fans, and teammates that he’s right at home in the heart of the Rams defense. This unit is evolving.

Changing for the better or worse? Hard to say right now. But the Rams roster has adjusted to the team’s new needs. This is a more physical, in-your-face defense, and Pooh Paul Jr. brings that every snap. His development was slowed by a training camp injury.

He’s back now and living up to every hope Rams fans had for him. While he probably won’t start in Week 1, he’s earned his roster spot. As the season goes on, he should inch closer to a bigger role. For now, he’s busy being the answer to plenty of Rams fans’ prayers.

As always, thanks for reading.

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