With training camp in full swing, the Los Angeles Rams are getting a good look at all the young talent they have on the roster.
The Rams took 14 rookies in the 2023 NFL Draft and agreed to terms with 26 undrafted free agents, opening up the competition for nearly every spot on the 53-man roster for 2023. However, Los Angeles has high hopes for Steve Avila, the interior offensive lineman they took early in the second round.
Avila was highly-touted prospect because of his versatility along the line as well as his power and technique in the run game. He projects to start either at left guard or center for the Rams, though he’s still going to have to prove himself in camp.
The rookie was mic’d up at a recent practice where he displayed his enthusiasm on the field and gave praise to Aaron Donald in a conversation with Rams legend Jackie Slater:
The video starts off with Avila going through drills with his position group, showing off some of his explosiveness and quick feet. He’s then seen getting some reps against some defensive linemen where he gets a quick word of advice from Andrew Whitworth, who was looking on.
Avila and the Rams then move on to a live scrimmage where it appears that the TCU product lines up at guard. Avila doesn’t say much during this segment, appearing focused on his blocking assignments and the play at hand.
His leadership ability comes through in a short clip where he’s encouraging his fellow lineman following a huddle. He even lets some of his competitive edge come out as he talks back to a player after a play ends.
Lastly, Avila is seen talking to Slater, who discusses his experience going up against Jack Youngblood in practice. Slater asks Avila what went through his mind lining up against Aaron Donald for the first time and the young lineman couldn’t help but gush about the star defensive tackle.
In just his short time in Los Angeles, Avila already looks the part of a long-term piece for the team and it’ll be exciting to see how much he grows and develops in 2023.
Sean McVay impressed with Stetson Bennett so far in camp
While Avila is making a name for himself, Stetson Bennett’s also caught the eye of the coaching staff. Sean McVay said he’s been impressed with Bennett so far in training camp and is happy to see him making plays.
