Los Angeles Rams vs. New Orleans Saints: Rams rookie report for Week 12

The Los Angeles Rams are now 8-3 which means they avoid Jeff Fisher’s 7 and 9.... you know the rest. After defeating the New Orleans Saints at home 26-20 behind a strong performance, the Rams enter Week 13 with continued sky-high expectations and motivation to close the year strong.

The rookies all contributed heavily in the victory, especially on the offensive side of the ball with leading receiver Robert Woods out for a few weeks with a shoulder injury. Defensively, John Johnson III had a larger responsibility, usually lining up as the deep safety with Lamarcus Joyner playing double duty, also serving as the team’s primary nickel corner with Nickell Robey-Coleman out with injury.

WR Cooper Kupp

Cooper Kupp had a rough game last week against the Minnesota Vikings with a fumble at the one yard line and a crucial drop in the red zone. This week, Kupp rebounded nicely, leading all players with 116 receiving yards on eight catches. Kupp was expected to step up with Woods out and performed well, being Jared Goff’s favorite target (11 targets).

Look for Kupp to continue to excel in his larger workload as Woods continues to rehab.

WR Josh Reynolds

Josh Reynolds also stepped up in a big way, snagging his first career touchdown. Targeted six times, Reynolds finished with four catches for 37 yards and touchdown.

Reynolds will likely continue to line up on the outside in Woods’ absence. Look for his role to also expand.

TE Gerald Everett

Gerald Everett had a quiet game with only one catch for nine yards. For now, it looks like Tyler Higbee will continue to get most of the looks as long as he plays as well as he did.

LB Samson Ebukam

Samson Ebukam earned his second career sack against Drew Brees. With Connor Barwin out due to injury, Ebukam earned significant playing time as Ejuan Price didn’t dress for the game.

Ebukam is slowly but steadily earning more time. Look for Ebukam to make a strong finish.

S John Johnson III

John Johnson III had another game with four total tackles including three solo stops. While a little out of his comfort zone as the deep safety for most of the game as Lamarcus Joyner played a lot more in the slot, Johnson held his own in helping the defense hold Drew Brees to less than 250 passing yards, which most of it coming in prevent time. Johnson will continue to be a cornerstone for the Rams defense for years to come.