The Los Angeles Rams were forced to make some changes along the offensive line with rookie left guard David Edwards making his first career start in place of an injured Joseph Noteboom against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 7.
There had been plenty of speculation regarding the state of the offensive line after an abysmal start to the 2019 NFL season and the injury to Noteboom left them reeling heading into Week 7. Fortunately, Edwards’ performance has provided hope for a potential resurgence upfront moving forward.
Although Edwards had primarily lined up at right tackle during his college days at Wisconsin, head coach Sean McVay was confident that he would be able to make the transition inside. It is safe to say that the move has worked out thus far.
McVay was admittedly happy with how Edwards performed in his first career start, via Stu Jackson of the team’s official website:
“I thought he displayed really good poise and maturity for a younger guy making his first start, especially when you look at just the sliding inside at that guard position, things happen a little bit quicker,” Rams head coach Sean McVay said. “I think he did a nice job. I think he’s only going to get better. I thought he played with great length and protection. He did a good job getting his hands on guys and I think that was a big part of why we were able to keep (QB) Jared (Goff) clean most of the day.”
Edwards added that he was able to lock in during the first drive on offense and got comfortable:
“After the first couple plays, it felt like I eased into it and was able to kind of quiet my mind, let me technique (work) and just go play,” Edwards said.
It is encouraging to see that Edwards is quickly getting acclimated to his new position. While playing alongside the likes of left tackle Andrew Whitworth certainly has its perks, there is no question that it was the promise he showed during training camp and the preseason that helped provide him with the opportunity.
The Rams offensive line was able to keep quarterback Jared Goff relatively clean all day long by not allowing a sack and he took full advantage by completing 22-of-37 passes for 268 yards and two touchdowns. If Edwards can continue to establish himself as a viable replacement for Noteboom, he could very well etch out a permanent role along the offensive line beyond the 2019 campaign.
