The Los Angeles Rams have one final preseason game remaining before they begin what figures to be a different type of campaign. A team used to competing for Super Bowls will now focus on the development of young players like offensive lineman Steve Avila while they build for next season.
Avila figures to be a major part of the Rams rebuild as he was the team’s first selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. L.A. took him with the 36th overall pick after not having a first round selection. And with the team’s offensive line struggles over the past year, it would be unsurprising to see Avila be a regular starter from Day 1.
And in preseason, he has already shown some unique flashes of excellence. One play in particular against Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Jordan Willis stood out for Avila’s aggression and strength, via Brandon Thorn:
Avila uncorking on the DE for a full slab #backflip pic.twitter.com/5cexMzkFKr
— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) August 21, 2023
There are very rarely major takeaways from a preseason game. Oftentimes, the best players are not playing and the ones that are on the field are usually fighting for a spot on the roster. However, moments like this can speak to the type of player Avila is.
It’s all but a certainty that Avila will be a major factor on the offensive line this season given his draft position and the team’s need. And yet, he still has the energy and determination to go and make a highlight reel play when fewer people are watching.
If this is what the Rams are getting in Avila, they could soon see their offensive line issues begin to patch themselves up.
Rams anticipate thumbs up on Joe Noteboom this or next week
Joe Noteboom has been out for about one week with an undisclosed ailment or injury. Sean McVay has kept things private with regard to his status, but it seems the next two weeks could see another Rams offensive lineman make his return to the field.
Noteboom could potentially be ready to return this week during joint practices with the Denver Broncos and for the preseason finale. But if he can’t go, McVay expects that he’ll be given the green light to return next week as the team makes their final preparations for the regular season.
Noteboom, like Avila, could play an absolutely pivotal role for the Rams this season.
