The Los Angeles Rams fell a bit short in their second game of the 2017 season against the Washington Football Franchise. While many were hoping that the penalties would die down, along with always losing the time of possession battle, the spirit of Jeff Fisher still flows through the team in spurts.
However, even with the Rams falling just short the rookies definitely stepped up with big plays and sure hands.
TE Gerald Everett
The Rams spent their first pick of the 2017 Draft on a tight end from a small school. So far this early season, Gerald Everett has definitely impressed. While only targeted three times and only playing in 16 plays (mostly due to injury), Everett finished the game with three catches for 95 yards, including the longest play of Jared Goff’s career.
Sadly, not everything was good for Everett as he ended up with a thigh contusion, leaving the game. With a short week, he may not be healthy enough in time to play in his Thursday Night Football debut.
Re: #Rams injuries, McVay said Gerald Everett has a thigh contusion, but “other than that we came out clean.”
— Brandon Bate (@NoPlanB_) September 18, 2017
WR Cooper Kupp
Kupp had a slightly less second week but still had a highlight catch near the goal line, setting up Todd Gurley’s first score of the day.
Cooper finished the game with a team high six targets but only three snags for 33 yards. With a short week and possibly missing Gerald Everett, Jared Goff may lock in even more on Kupp.
WR Josh Reynolds
Three Words.
Special. Teams. Ace.
The Defensive Guys
DL Tanzel Smart saw a reduction in playing time with DE Aaron Donald back but still managed to play 20 or 28% of the defensive snaps. Smart contributed with two tackles and probably looks to be in the rotation with DE Ethan Westbrooks, DT Tyrunn Walker, and DE Matt Longacre.
OLB Samson Ebukam saw more “meaningful” snaps on defense with OLB Robert Quinn still playing himself in shape. Quinn was asking for a sub a couple of times and the rookie from Eastern Washington was the choice to fill in at linebacker.
Overall
I can’t rave enough about this class, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Kupp and Everett seem to be destined for significant impact for the foreseeable future while Smart and Ebukam are working towards that status for Wade Phillips’ defense.