Taylor Rapp was viewed as a first-round prospect by a lot of draft analysts and it wouldn’t have been the least bit surprising to see him go in the late 20s or early 30s back in April. The Rams got a steal by selecting him 51st overall after trading back three times, and while they already had two starting safeties, he was a long-term addition with a very high ceiling.
He turned into an almost-immediate contributor after John Johnson was placed on IR, thrusting Rapp into the starting lineup. Eric Weddle has taken him under his wing and helped him develop into one of the best safeties in the league, regardless of experience.
In the locker room Thursday, Weddle discussed how well Rapp has been playing and shared his excitement for the rookie pulling down his first career interception.
“He was lightyears ahead of most rookies. It’s tough to come in this league and he’s always put his head down, he’s always trying to learn, he’s always trying to get better and work hard and work on maybe his deficiencies in pass games or practice,” Weddle said. “Just seeing his growth, his confidence and us working well together. We sit by each other, we talk ball, we’re talking concepts, we’re just talking about what I see, what I can help him with and he’s just on the ball.”
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Weddle is like a coach on the field and playing the same position as Rapp, the two are in constant communication throughout the game. Weddle is impressed with Rapp’s ability to digest what he’s saying and use it to get better.
“Anytime I say something to him or relay something to him, even in the middle of the game, he’s on top of it the next series,” Weddle added. “He’s been not only one of the best rookies, but over the last 10 games, one of the best safeties out there. His tackling ability, he’s covering, his playmaking. Couldve had three or four picks if he could catch, but those times will come. The sky’s the limit for him, I’m just happy that I can share the field with him and help him as much as I can.”
Rapp has quickly become a top safety in the NFL, ranking fifth at his position on Pro Football Focus’ grading system since Week 7 – the week he took over as a starter. He’s arguably been the better of the two between himself and Weddle, which is saying a lot considering their gap in experience.
Needless to say, he’s been a valuable addition to the roster, and more importantly, the starting lineup this year.