The start of training camp means the young players on the Los Angeles Rams roster will get their shot to compete for a starting spot.
Both sides of the field offer intriguing position battles, though the most interesting one could be in the secondary as there are several starting spots up for grabs. Gone are players like Jalen Ramsey and Troy Hill, so up-and-comers like Cobie Durant and Derion Kendrick have massive opportunities in front of them to contribute right away.
Durant and Kendrick have been two of the names to watch during the summer as the young duo has been working hard to build off their rookie years. Both got the chance to play meaningful snaps in 2022 and are expected to assume more responsibility because of their talent and the lack of depth at corner.
However, Kendrick has been unable to practice in camp and Sean McVay revealed he’s been dealing with a hamstring injury. While the injury is bad timing, McVay did note that the defensive back is doing well and shouldn’t be out for long.
“He’s making good progress. I talked to him today and those soft tissue things are something that you can’t be too careful with. So hopefully we’ll get him back within the week, maybe next week. It might be this week. So it’s kind of just day-to-day, especially when you’re talking about with those DBs.”
The Rams suffered numerous injuries across the roster last season, so it’s no surprise that they’re being cautious with Kendrick. At this juncture, there’s no reason to push him to return earlier especially given the nature of his injury.
Although Kendrick hopes to assume the burden of being one of L.A.’s outside corners, the minor setback could allow his peers to make stronger cases. Kendrick is competing with the likes of Robert Rochell, Ahkello Witherspoon and Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson and each of them brings something different to the table.
For now, the Rams will be monitoring Kendrick’s progress and hopefully he’ll be able to return later in the week.
Cobie Durant preparing to play ‘star’ role on defense
During last season, Ramsey primarily played the ‘star’ role for Raheem Morris, with Hill filling in as well. The ‘star’ position is a hybrid role that allows a defensive back to play both at the line of scrimmage and in coverage, giving them more freedom to make plays.
Durant is the early favorite to assume the role and he is preparing himself for the responsibility.
