Random Ramsdom: First impressions of ‘Hard Knocks’

The first episode of HBO’s Hard Knocks premiered last night to a very warm reception from viewers. As fans, we finally got to see all the sights and hear all the voices we’ve missed dearly over the course of this unusual offseason.

From the jump, the show portrayed some of the new realities that NFL players and personnel are facing on a daily basis: social distancing, consistent COVID-19 testing, and a varying schedule that could change on a moment’s notice depending on how well they’re able to keep each other safe.

Your early Rams stars on the show so far are head coach Sean McVay, cornerback Donte Deayon, and various other defensive players that provided the show with the majority of their laughs down the final stretch.

The producers did an excellent job of keeping the show balanced with the light-hearted banter between the players/coaches and the more emotional, heavier side of things. Plenty of the dialogue revolved around the coaches reminding their respective teams just how important it is to take care of each other and maintaining a sense of mindfulness. As you’ve probably heard before, McVay stressed that the team who mitigates unnecessary risks the most will find the most success this season.

But without turning this into a full-blown recap, I just wanted to gauge all of your first impressions on the first episode of Hard Knocks. With one week down, how are you all feeling about the show? What did you like the most? What about dislike? Let us know.

Now for today’s links.

Rams News:

Stu Jackson previews the Rams’ situation at inside linebacker (TheRams.com)

Jared Goff is aiming to have three 1,000-yard receivers in 2020 (TheRams.com)

Bret Stuter gives you three takeaways from the first episode of Hard Knocks (Ramblin’ Fan)

Sean McVay has already been asked about turning to the broadcast booth (The Rams Wire)

NFL News:

Todd McShay released his latest 2021 mock draft (ESPN)

A number of Cowboys players are creating their own personal training camp bubble (ESPN)

The Washington Football Team will play without fans in 2020 (Pro Football Talk)

The Ravens signed RB Kenjon Barner (Pro Football Talk)

Cody Benjamin lists the 10 best remaining free agents (CBS Sports)

Kristopher Knox updated their list of players who are likely to be traded from each NFL club (Bleacher Report)