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Along with adding Allen Robinson, the Rams’ biggest splash of the offseason was the signing of Bobby Wagner. It was a somewhat surprising addition considering how low of a priority the Rams have made the inside linebacker position over the last five years, but Wagner greatly improves that spot on Los Angeles’ roster.
Compared to the outlook of the Rams’ linebacker position at this time last year, it appears to be a much better group thanks to Wagner’s arrival and the progress Ernest Jones made throughout his rookie year.
Prior to the 2021 season, Pro Football Focus ranked the Rams’ linebacker group 30th in the NFL, or third-worst. Now, with Wagner in the mix and Jones emerging as a quality starter, the Rams have made a considerable leap in PFF’s rankings.
The site’s latest poll for 2022 puts the Rams’ linebackers 10th in the NFL.
The Rams attacked the linebacker position this offseason, adding Bobby Wagner. Although Wagner might be on the downswing of a great career, this unit could push for a top-five spot by the season’s end if he rebounds after a poor 2021. Still, it’s an interesting group because of Ernest Jones, especially after his very good Super Bowl performance as he came back from an injury-plagued season. He’s a high-upside player now playing with a future Hall of Famer.
It’s amazing how one player can change the perception of an entire position group, but that’s exactly what Wagner does for the Rams. This isn’t to minimize the impact Jones will have this year, but the Rams wouldn’t be 10th in PFF’s rankings without Wagner.
It’ll be exciting to see the tandem of Wagner and Jones working together in Raheem Morris’ defense.