2017 Rams Rookie Report: Regular Season Week 1

The Los Angeles Rams took care of business in their regular season debut against the Indianapolis Colts. With a new regime in place focused on revamping the offensive attack and tweaking the defense, the Rams truly impressed in week one, dominating the Colts from the get-go, 46-9.

Confidence is at a sky high and Rams fans can not only feel more positive about the team now, but can also feel very positive about the future of the team as many young rookies shined.

Cooper Kupp

What a first meaningful game for the Rams rookie, Cooper Kupp. Many have raved about his ball skills, route running, and YAC ability which were all on display as he was the leading receiver for the game with four catches for 76 yards and a touchdown.

Kupp was able to translate his spectacular (but short) preseason. Look for him to continue to be Goff’s safety valve and essential Jamison Crowder role (remember his breakout year last year?).

Gerald Everett

The Rams first pick of the 2017 Draft was the tight end, Gerald Everett. Everett had only 29 snaps but had nearly half the snaps that Tyler Higbee got. However, Everett did make his lone target count. Look for his role to grow as the season goes on.

The Other Offensive Guys

Justin Davis got a little bit of run and one lone carry. Likely, Davis will not receive much playing time. Josh Reynolds played in 17 snaps but failed to draw a target. Reynolds may be a bit limited as a deep threat/situational player until he continues to develop his route tree but the top two guys are definitely making plays already.

Tanzel Smart

With Aaron Donald just back with the team but not in uniform, Tanzel Smart got the nod in the base defense. Smart played in 29 or 58% of the defensive snaps and was a consistent player plugging up the gaps.

Samson Ebukam

While Ebukam was hobbled in the preseason with some soft tissue issues, he rallied to play 14 snaps of defense and 22 snaps of special teams where he put his athleticism to work. Ebukam finished the game with three total tackles and will likely play this season as a situational pass rusher and special teams ace.