Rams showcase Michael Hoecht versatility in new wrinkle for preseason Game 3

It was not something anyone could foresee from the Los Angeles Rams leading up to their third preseason game. But it was always something that resided in the back of fans' minds. With the departure of OLB/DE Michael Hoecht, the defense lost the versatility of playing someone who could play with his hand in the dirt as well as in a two-point stance. Until Game 3, that is.

The Rams defense loved the versatility that Hoecht provided. He was a collegiate defensive lineman. He was also a pass rusher who cross-trained into the role mid-season in 2022. The trial was intended to give the team a bridge until the front office could restock the shelves of edge rushers in the offseason. DC Raheem Morris demonstrated that a defender who plays with passion can also succeed in other roles.

Desjuan Johnson is the next in line for that versatile role, and his transition from a down lineman to an edge rusher is a proactive response to the injury of outside linebacker Keir Thomas. He had to suit up and debut off the edge against the Cleveland Browns' starting offense. But he was showing up, putting up enough tackles off the edge to remain among the team leaders as halftime rolled around.

Desjuan Johnson's last ditch effort to make the roster

The most recent projections for the team's depth chart and 53-man roster leave no room for Johnson to make the team as a defensive lineman. And with the transition to an edge rusher role, it's safe to expect that he won't beat out a competitive field of players there either. But this is not a checkers move. This is a strategic move that carries an air of chess about it.

Even if Johnson does not make the active roster, he is almost certainly coming back to the team's practice squad. And that is almost just as beneficial, as he will have the opportunity to be elevated multiple times for game day, as he continues his competition for a larger role in the defense.

Versatility may be just enough to keep his dream of starting in the NFL alive. With more on his profile of 'can do's', he offers more opportunity to be deployed on the defensive side of the football. DC Chris Shula loves more options, something that Johnson gives the defense. That optionality is what the player and team need to extend his NFL career with the Rams in 2025. As always, thanks for reading.

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