Turf Show Times
With the final cut down date still a week away, the Los Angeles Rams are already shaking up the roster. Earlier today, L.A. announced three personnel transactions.
1) Edge Keir Thomas placed on Injured Reserve
While there are currently no reports as to source of the actual injury, the Rams have Thomas on IR List. It does not necessarily mean anything, but he did leave the preseason win over the Chargers after a handful of reps.While the standard rule is that player put on IR in training camp are out for the season, a new rule allows for two players to be designated as exceptions. This pair will not count towards the opening 53, do not have to clear waivers, and can be designated to return after four weeks. Since there were no reports
Undrafted in 2022 from Florida State, Thomas has bounced between the Rams roster and practice squad since joining the team. Most recently, he had been getting snaps with the first team defense and his departure clarifies the battle for E#4 to Brennan Jackson and Nick Hampton.
2) Wide receiver Mario Williams waived with injury designation
Williams was an undrafted rookie out of Tulane and had two catches for 46 yards and a touchdown in preseason. He also had a nice kickoff return brought back on penalty. I wrote this about him after his spring signing:
“Hard to miss the similarity in how Williams was employed by Tulane and how the Rams use Tutu Atwell. Lots of over and dig routes, both staples of the Rams passing scheme. In the OU/USC offense, he was used on short, quick throws to rely on his open field running. His overall route running is fairly polished at all three depth’s. Obviously, size will be a factor in a more physical NFL when pressured getting off the line and mis-directed by aggressive coverage. Williams’ twitchy move skills and short area agility will be of help in countering sticky press.
Good hand catcher away from his body, nice hand/eye coordination in tight coverage, and liquid fast in transition to run. Begins with tempo and then explodes into another gear, whether running after catch or off route breaks. Stellar feet and very sharp on cuts. Quicker than fast, but 4.5 is more than adequate. Willing and able on balls over the middle. Not much on blocking, but his effort matches his play style, ornery.“
3) Center Mike McAllister signed to roster
Rams fans may remember McAllister, he spent 2023 and most of 2024 on the Rams practice squad after signing as an undrafted free agent out Youngstown State. He never suited up for the Rams in a regular season game. I profiled him back in 2023.
Like most FCS players, particularly those in the trench, McAllister could use a pro strength/conditioning program. At his Pro Day, he was measured at a blocky 6’ 3”, 305 lbs., 9 5/8” hands, and 31 1/2” arms. Good 5.06 forty time and solid...
