2016 Rams Roster Preview: FS Jabriel Washington Looks To Crack Depth Chart

Since Jeff Fisher's arrival, the Los Angeles Rams had built considerable depth in the defensive secondary. While much of that depth remains, some of the production will need replaced in 2016. After seeing Rodney McLeod and Janoris Jenkins head to the NFC East, the Rams will have to employ a 'next man up' philosophy to fill those holes.

Roster Battle

On their website, the Rams officially list Washington as a "defensive back," but he spent his time at Alabama as a free safety - which is arguably the biggest hole on the Rams' defense right now. That gaping hole likely led to him being signed after a tryout during rookie minicamp.

There are whispers that Lamarcus Joyner may move to free safety, but those whispers were there last year as well. After considering Joyner, there isn't much in the way of competition. Cody Davis comes to mind, but he's proven about as much in the NFL as Washington has. Christian Bryant and fellow 2016 UDFA Brian Randolph lurk as his immediate competition.

Expectations

Washington may not have gotten on the field much for the Crimson Tide, but he was known as an exceptional athlete. If he wants a legitimate chance at making the roster he will need to showcase his athleticism. If Gregg Williams sees a way to implement Washington in sub packages, his chances go up.

Chances of Making Final Roster (3/10)

He faces long odds, but Washington has two things going for him: The Rams' desperate need at free safety and his athleticism. Even if he falls short in his quest to make the roster, he is a good practice squad candidate.