There is nothing quite like being able to play a sport professionally in the same city a player attended college. Although recently-acquired Los Angeles Rams linebacker Kenny Young did not grow up in Los Angeles, he did play his college ball at UCLA.
After being selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Young has returned as the Rams sent cornerback Marcus Peters to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for the second-year linebacker and a draft pick.
After spending some time in Baltimore, Young is excited to make his return to the West Coast, via the Rams official Twitter:
“It feels amazing. The weather’s fantastic, I get to get out and compete with a new team, new organization, new energy. I’m just excited to get out and compete honestly. Back home, UCLA is right down the street, it really feels like I’m in my back yard. So really I’m just excited to get out there and apply the things the coaches need from me and just get started right away. I’m behind a little bit, so [I’m] really trying to hone in on the playbook, get familiar with the guys and try to make this new home as comfortable as possible.”
Young grew up in Louisiana, but spent four full years with the Bruins. He had a solid collegiate career, recording 195 solo tackles, two interceptions and 6.5 sacks.
In his first year in the NFL, Young seemed to find his footing quickly. Although he appeared in all 16 games, he only started three and still managed to record 40 solo tackles and 2.5 sacks.
This year he has started in three of the Ravens five games, totaling 11 solo tackles and one forced fumble. His role with the Rams remains unclear thus far as he is not even listed on the team’s unofficial depth chart.
With Clay Matthews injured for the next few weeks, it would not be surprising to see Young see some significant playing time. Of course, the Rams have Troy Reeder and Samson Ebukam, who have seen some playing time thus far this season as back-ups. Their roles might be increased as well, seeing as they are already accustomed to the Rams defensive alignments.
Of course, former Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey has also joined the Rams defense. With a number of solid pieces coming in, the Rams should be playing very differently come Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons. Young should be able to help with the Rams Week 8 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, as he has already taken them on during his time on the Ravens.
