The Rams head to Denver for final preseason game

By Zakary Haines

LOS ANGELES- As the preseason is coming to a close, coaches are getting one final look at their players before the final cuts come in. Tonight’s game is critical for many players, as the Rams must cut down from 80 players to 53. The last four players cut include running back Raymond Calais (who had foot surgery), defensive back Paris Ford, tight end Kyle Markway, and quarterback Delvin Hodges. With that in mind, here are the groups to watch out for in tonight’s game against the Denver Broncos.

Running Backs: With the trade of Sony Michel, it looks like the Rams have reignited the competition for the number one running back spot. With Cam Akers out for the season with a torn Achilles and Darrell Henderson Jr. not performing well during the preseason. This leaves an open competition for Otis Anderson, Jake Funk, and Xavier Jones to land a spot on the Rams’ final roster. Funk led the team in rushing yards against the Raiders last week. Expect there to be more run plays to help determine who will make the cut. 

Inside Linebackers: This group has been spared any cuts as the coaching staff tries to see the best fit. That could change come next week. This game will be essential to show who will come up big for the Rams’ defense. That includes tackles for loss, filling gaps, and stopping the other team’s running game. Kenny Young and Troy Reeder are expected to be the starters, but that has not stopped Travin Howard from making his mark. As for Micah Kiser, this will be their last chance to prove he belongs on the team.

Wide Receivers: Another group that has been unaffected by roster cuts until now is the wide receivers. Most starters have been identified, such as Robert Woods, Connor Kupp, and Desean Jackson. As for other receivers, this game is a “prove it” game. Some of the top performers so far have been JJ Koski, Trishton Jackson, and Jeremaih Haydel. As for the rest of the depth chart, that will be determined in today’s game. Expect the routes to be more complicated, and players expected to push the yards after catching even further.

If there was ever a time to shine, this is it. This third and final preseason contest can make or break some players’ NFL careers, so it is important to leave it all out there on the field. The Rams will need to tighten up their roster, and some players are not making this an easy task. Another late-night kickoff is set for 9:05 pm est in Denver. The final roster cuts are to be done by Tuesday, August 31st at 4 pm est.