Why Rams acted quickly to ink 13 players to Reserve Future contracts for 2025

(13) - CB Charles Woods

Former SMU Mustangs defensive back Charles Woods did not hear his name called out in the 2024 NFL Draft, but that has not stopped him from entering his second NFL season with the Rams. Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 185 pounds, this young defensive back served much of the season on the team's active roster before being waived and signed to the practice squad in early December 2024.

Primarily a special teams contributor, Woods did see limited opportunities on the defense. However, he was not activated for Week 18, missing an opportunity to see extensive playing time on the defense. Still, he was a contributor on special teams, which is often a prerequisite to players hoping for a larger role.

Woods looked the part in preseason games, often showing up in the right place at the right time to force quarterbacks to look elsewhere. The Rams will continue to seek additional help for the secondary in the offseason. But pencil in Charles Woods name as competing for a significant role in 2025. He may not earn a starting role, but he won't be a rookie next season.

Summary

Sometimes we forget that the first task for the Rams front office is not to add 53 All-Pro players, but to construct a wide ranging variety of players to the initial 90-man roster. As the first order of business, the signing of 13 players to Reserve/Future contracts takes a lot of pressure off the front office to the mass execution of contracts with rookie prospects after the NFL Draft.

And we should not overlook the value of having players who have been through the entire regimen of Rams OTAs, mini-camp, training camp, and preseason in ensuring that progress occurs steadily and predictably.

The Rams continue to improve, particularly on the defensive side of the football. I expect the team to consider significant changes on the offensive side of the football. What will that take the shape of? Well, we will continue to dissect and examine offensive players and elements that could form the foundation of a new and improved 2025 offense. For now, the team has ensured 13 players from the practice squad in 2024 will be back. That is a huge step in the right direction.

As always, thanks for reading.

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