The Los Angeles Rams announced they signed their entire 2020 draft class, which includes running back Cam Akers, wide receiver Van Jefferson, outside linebacker Terrell Lewis, defensive back Terrell Burgess, tight end Brycen Hopkins, safety Jordan Fuller, linebacker Clay Johnston, kicker Sam Sloman and offensive lineman Tremayne Anchrum, to their rookie contracts.
With the Rams rookies reporting to the team’s practice facility, it officially marks the beginning of 2020 training camp.
In addition to inking their contracts, L.A.’s rookie class also began their mandatory coronavirus testing, which will take a couple of days to get the results before they can officially hit the field. The Rams’ veterans will be following soon as they will begin their testing at the facility later this week.
Despite not having a first-round pick in 2020, the Rams still have high expectations for their draft class. Akers was their top pick in the second round and is expected to compete for the starting running back job after the departure of Todd Gurley.
While Akers has said he is not looking to fill Gurley’s shoes, it is clear that the organization is high on his talents.
Jefferson is another offensive skilled player that will be looking to replace a former star in Brandin Cooks. He will be battling with Josh Reynolds for the No. 3 receiver spot on the roster.
After their first couple of picks, it was clear that the Rams prioritized adding defensive players with high upside such as Lewis, Burgess and Fuller. The organization also lost a number of key defensive players such as Cory Littleton, Dante Fowler Jr., Nickell Robey-Coleman, Eric Weddle and Clay Matthews, so they will be relying on more young players than ever on the defensive side of the ball in 2020.
Unfortunately, the Rams will have less field time than a normal year to get their players prepared, which is difficult when trying to get a rookie class up to speed. It will be up to Sean McVay and the rest of the coaching staff to get them game-ready by Week 1 though, and there’s no doubt they will do everything in their power to make that happen.
