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Los Angeles Rams CB Kevin Peterson ended the 2017 regular season with a bang. In his first career NFL start, he accumulated 8 tackles, 5 passes defensed, 2 interceptions, and a forced fumble. That’s quite the statement for the youngster from Oklahoma State.
Given the overhaul the Rams had at the cornerback position this offseason, it remains to be seen how much of an impact that performance will have on Peterson’s status this season though.
Roster Battle
The top three spots are completely locked down. Marcus Peters, Aqib Talib and Nickell Robey-Coleman are cemented into those spots. After that though, it’s a bit of a toss up.
The first two in line after the big three are Sam Shields and Troy Hill. Shields was once a Pro Bowl-caliber CB, but can he get past his concussions? Hill has played well at times, but he also has also been prone to making some boneheaded plays as well.
If either of them falter in camp, Peterson will be nipping at their heels along with Dominique Hatfield.
Expectations
Peterson has bounced from the practice squad to the active roster several times with the Rams. He’s gotta buck that trend and show that week 17 wasn’t a fluke. Show some consistency and continue to showcase that playmaking ability.
Chances of Making Roster (4.5/10)
There are a lot of variables for the CBs once you get past the top 3, but Peterson still has an uphill battle. I really believe Troy Hill is going to end up being the 4th CB, which leaves Peterson battling with Shields for the 5th - and likely final - spot on the roster.
If Shields is healthy, he has a serious leg up on Peterson. But that is a big if.