Wesley Bailey wasted no time making his case for a role in Rams' rotation

If Los Angeles Rams fans want a silver lining for Myles Garrett's injury, Wesley Bailey is it. With an extra spot available in the rotation, Bailey made his defensive debut Monday against the Giants and announced himself with a bang. 

It was the undrafted rookie, of all the high-profile pass rushers on the roster, who recorded the team's first sack of the season. Showcasing the power and length in his 6-foot-5 frame, Bailey wrapped up - better said, engulfed - Giants quarterback Jameis Winston as he tried to escape the pocket late in the second quarter. 

Famous Jameis might not be the fleetest afoot, but good luck to anyone evading Bailey's wide, tarantula-like reach. While Bailey saw a modest 19 defensive snaps, Rams fans have seen enough to pound the table for more.

Wesley Bailey immediately capitalized on his first opportunity

Garrett will be out through Week 5 at least, so we should get to see a bit more Bailey. His length on the edge could help out against both the run and the pass, and he's athletic enough to keep the pressure on mobile quarterbacks like the next three the Rams will face in Bo Nix, Jalen Hurts, and Josh Allen. 

Interestingly, defensive coordinator Chris Shula opted for a four-linemen look to begin the game against the Giants. Byron Young was the only edge rusher in a front including Aaron Donald, Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske, and Poona Ford. Continuing to lean on that strategy could limit opportunities for edge rushers like Bailey. 

It's also interesting to note, however, that Bailey outsnapped veteran Desjuan Johnson 19 to 10. If that's any indication, the Rams may already view him as next man up behind Young and Josaiah Stewart. Bailey definitely earned himself some future reps. 

The Rams also upped his involvement on special teams, from two plays to nine. Even if Bailey sees no significant increase in playing time on defense, his downhill violence can still be useful in coverage. 

Bailey's ascent is already impressive. Where the Rams even find this guy? Bailey had a nice senior season at Louisville, after transferring from Rutgers, with athletic traits that jump off the page.

Despite going undrafted, he beat out seventh-round nose tackle Tim Keenan III for a roster spot. The Rams typically keep four edge rushers, not five. Bailey was the fifth. 

His stellar preseason left them no choice but to keep him around. Now, an NFL sack already under his belt, Bailey's debut all but demands that he keep seeing snaps.

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