With training camp done and the preseason approaching, this is the time when fans can start to see the future of their team. The Los Angeles Rams in particular have slowly gotten younger and younger over the past two years with many rookies joining the team.
They were the second youngest team last season with a 53-man roster average of 25.7 and this year their training camp roster comes in at a lower 24.04.
With a massive hole on defense with the loss of Aaron Donald, the Rams had one mission this offseason, capitalize on the success of their young defensive linemen Kobie Turner and Byron Young by drafting a plethora of new friends for them. By doing so, Snead tried to fill the Aaron Donald-sized hole on defense with many young players.
Let’s evaluate some of the Rams young talent drafted within the last two years and how they’ve performed in camp.
Rams Young Defensive Line: Who Will Emerge as Star Player?
Jared Verse
Draft and College Production: Jared Verse was selected by the Rams in the first round out of Florida State. In college, Verse was known for his explosive pass-rushing abilities, recording 18 sacks and 29.5 tackles for loss over his last two seasons.
Camp Performance: Verse hasn’t necessarily been a standout in training camp, but he’s been doing everything right and gone under the radar. During camp, Fiske made a bit more of a splash but from the looks of things Verse is ready to go. His energy and leadership have been palpable, and he’s expected to be a significant contributor to the Rams’ defensive front from the get-go.
Projection: Verse could realistically achieve 6-9 sacks, 15-18 tackles for loss, and 45-50 total tackles in his rookie NFL season.
Braden Fiske
Draft and College Production: Braden Fiske was drafted by the Rams in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, also from Florida State. He made a name for himself with his versatility on the defensive line, amassing 43 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks in his final college season.
Camp Performance: Fiske has exceeded expectations in training camp. His agility and power have made him a disruptive force on the defensive line. Coaches have praised his relentless work ethic and his ability to quickly grasp the defensive schemes
Projection: If Fiske continues his upward trajectory, he could project to have 5-7 sacks, 12-15 tackles for loss and 40-45 total tackles for the season.
Kobie Turner
Draft and College Production: Kobie Turner was drafted in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft from Wake Forest. Turner was a dominant force in college, particularly known for his run-stopping ability and accumulating 10 tackles for loss and 2 sacks in his senior year.
Camp Performance: Despite dealing with a groin strain during camp, Turner has shown flashes of his potential. His run defense remains stout, and he has demonstrated good awareness and positioning when on the field. The coaching staff is optimistic about his recovery and contributions this season
Projection: Once fully healthy, Turner could project to record 5-7 sacks, 10-12 tackles for loss, and 35-40 total tackles in the upcoming season. The only reason for fewer sacks is that there are more mouths to feed on defense and there won’t be Aaron Donald getting double-teamed to open things up for him.
Byron Young
Draft and College Production: Byron Young was selected in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft out of Tennessee. He was a consistent performer in college, with 23.5 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks over his career, showcasing his ability to disrupt both the run and pass games.
Camp Performance: Young has been a reliable presence on the edge during training camp. His quick first step and relentless pursuit have shined. Young’s consistent play has positioned him as a key component of the Rams’ pass rush rotation.
Projection: Young could be expected to achieve 6-8 sacks, 12-15 tackles for loss, and 40-45 total tackles this season based on his current form in camp.
Brennan Jackson
Draft and College Production: Brennan Jackson was selected by the Rams in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, 154th overall, out of Washington State. During his college career, Jackson was a consistent performer, recording 12.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks in his final season. Known for his relentless motor and ability to disrupt plays, Jackson was a key contributor on Washington State’s defense.
Camp Performance: Jackson has made the most of his opportunities in camp. His hustle and tenacity have stood out, and he has managed to disrupt plays during scrimmages. Jackson is pushing hard for a spot on the starting roster and could provide valuable depth on the defensive line.
Projection: If Jackson secures a rotating spot, he could project to contribute 2-4 sacks, 8-10 tackles for loss, and 25-30 total tackles.
Tyler Davis
Draft and College Production: Tyler Davis was selected by the Rams in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, 196th overall, out of Clemson. A stalwart on the Clemson defensive line, Davis earned First-Team All-ACC honors three times. In his final season, he recorded 34 total tackles, 3.5 of which were for a loss, showcasing his ability to be a consistent and disruptive force.
Camp Performance: Davis has shown flashes of his college form during camp. His technique and strength have been assets in one-on-one drills, and he has the potential to be a rotational player on the defensive line.
Projection: Davis could project to have 2-4 sacks, 8-10 tackles for loss, and 30-35 total tackles in the upcoming season if he continues to develop and secures a role in the rotation.