Rams' promising rookie edge rusher facing uphill climb to make his mark

The Los Angeles Rams did not draft an edge rusher in 2026. Instead, they traded for Myles Garrett. Still, of course, that single transaction did not meet training-camp depth needs. The Rams cast a wide net for rookie reinforcements after this year's draft.

While undrafted rookies are unlikely to make the 53-man roster, former Louisville defensive end Wesley Bailey is one of the Rams' batch still clinging to that hope. Unfortunately, his slim chances took a hit when the team signed veteran edge rusher Tomon Fox last month, replacing the injured Eddie Walls III on the 90-man unit.

While the Rams have a reputation for taking undrafted rookies quite seriously, they also deploy a tight edge-rusher rotation, one that seldom includes a fourth or fifth option. In the postseason, that group is even more constricted. Even before the pads go on, Bailey finds himself on the brink.

Bailey will face an uphill battle carving out role in training camp

Obviously, Garrett and Byron Young will be the starters off the edge. Close behind is second-year outside linebacker Josaiah Stewart, who flashed solid promise in a limited rookie role. Behind those three is a candy scramble among Desjuan Johnson, Keir Thomas II, Fox, and rookies Bailey and Darryl Peterson III.

L.A. loves veterans and will likely afford them the early reps to see what they can do. Ultimately training camp will pivot to rookies, and that is when Bailey can shine. With his energetic athleticism, he could still have a chance to stick around, at least on the practice squad, if he can learn the playbook and develop chemistry with his teammates quickly.

Of course, Fox must do the same, but his experience gives him an edge in learning an unfamiliar system. But if the Rams are still evaluating their options during the preseason, Bailey could make a positive impression by showing up big. He has the talent, helping him to produce six sacks and seven tackles for loss in his final college season.

He will have to do more with less. On the fringes of the 90-man roster, Bailey will get few reps with starters or primary backups. He enters training camp at or near the very bottom of the depth chart and must prove himself worthy of additional investment in coaching, repetitions, and time.

As always, thanks for reading.

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