With offseason training activities fully underway, it is a great time for the Los Angeles Rams new players and coaching staff to get well acquainted with one another. Although the practices are voluntary, there have been a few notable faces missing from camp.
One of them being Trumaine Johnson, who after fully participating in the first week of OTAs, has become a no-show so far this week. However, head coach Sean McVay is not too worried about Johnson’s absence thus far, according to Myles Simmons of Rams:
“It’s a situation where I continue to remind people that it is voluntary. We’re not sure where Trumaine was today, but it is voluntary,” said McVay. “I’m sure we’ll find out specifically because he’s done a great job this offseason communicating and being here every day. I’m sure we’ll find out a little bit more moving forward.”
While McVay would not confirm the nature of Johnson’s absence, there is speculation that it could be contract-related. Earlier this year, the veteran corner was slapped with a second consecutive franchise tag that will cost the Rams upward of $16 million for the upcoming 2017 NFL season. However, there have been talks confirming that both sides are hashing out a more reasonable long-term deal.
If there is one positive that has come from this is that it has given other cornerbacks like E.J. Gaines and Nickell Robey-Coleman more looks at practice. Depth at corner has plagued the Rams in years past, but this year’s influx of talent should help Los Angeles steer clear from that issue.