The Los Angeles Rams’ much-improved offensive line will likely be in a state of flux following the 2018 season.
LG Rodger Saffold, RT Rob Havenstein and RG Jamon Brown will all be unrestricted free agents. LT Andrew Whitworth and C John Sullivan are solid and under contract through the 2019 season, but age is a factor for both. Looking to the future, the Rams elected to invest a fair share of their 2018 NFL Draft capital in the line and start developing some capable replacements for the future.
Headlining that effort was TCU product OT Joseph Noteboom whom the Rams took with the 89th overall pick in the third round, the first pick of their class.
Noteboom, a former high school ice hockey player, has the sort of athleticism that helped him become a solid pass blocker during his tenure at TCU. He was picture of good health in college and didn’t miss a game due to injury while manning both the right and later the left tackle positions.
He will need to continue to grow into his 6’5 frame and develop strength if he wants to have an impact in the NFL, but the Rams are hoping a season or two behind Whitworth will be enough time for Noteboom to become an NFL-ready option. As a three time All-Academic Big 12 pick, Noteboom will need to be a sponge as he is mentored and groomed by Offensive Line coach Aaron Kromer and the veteran Whitworth.
They should help Noteboom develop much needed consistency by the time he is asked to become a part of the Rams’ offense.
Roster Battle
The Rams’ depth at tackle was not a strength last season, but good health rendered that concern moot. OT Darrell Williams (roster preview) and OT Cornelius Lucas (roster preview) are there, but would cause mass concern among Rams fans if either were tapped to start for any stretch of the season.
Noteboom could overtake both on the depth chart by September, although Lucas’ experience will give him the upper hand in the short-term.
Expectations
It doesn’t appear that Noteboom is ready to grapple with premier NFL edge rushers at this point. If all goes well, he won’t see much playing time in 2018. Hopefully, Noteboom will be able to hone his craft and frame within the comfort of the Rams practice facility for a season or two, before he is asked to keep QB Jared Goff clean.
Chances Of Making The Final Roster (9.5/10)
The Rams will keep their 3rd Rounder and see if they can mold him into an eventual starter someday. Their lack of depth at tackle should only solidify Noteboom’s place on the roster.