ESPN REPORT: FORMER LAKERS COACH PHIL HANDY CONFIRMED DEAD DUE ….. see.. more.. The Los Angeles Rams have taken significant steps in solidifying their roster by signing Kamren Kinchens and Brennan Jackson to their rookie contracts, marking the completion of deals for nine out of their ten picks from the 2024 NFL Draft. The sole remaining rookie, Jared Verse, the first-round pick at No. 19 overall, is anticipated to finalize his contract soon, with customary terms for a first-round selection along with the team’s option for a fifth year.
With the bulk of their rookie class secured, the Rams can now focus on integrating these young talents into their roster during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) scheduled from this week into early June. Subsequently, mandatory minicamps will precede the commencement of training camp and preseason.
While Braden Fiske and Jared Verse are poised for starting roles, Kamren Kinchens and Brennan Jackson will vie for rotational positions and defensive snaps. Kinchens may contend with Russ Yeast for a starting safety position or feature in specialized sub-packages. Jackson, on the other hand, is likely to start behind Byron Young and Verse but could see immediate playing time due to his upfront tenacity.
Despite their draft positions, the Rams are open to deploying rookies who demonstrate their merit, as evidenced by the success story of Puka Nacua, a fifth-round pick who evolved into a key offensive player. As the ramifications of Aaron Donald’s retirement unfold, the front office has strategically infused the defense with young, cost-effective talent. Defensive coordinator Chris Shula faces the challenge of compensating for Donald’s absence by leveraging a collective effort from the defensive unit rather than relying on any single player to replicate his impact.