The Rams have gotten more contributions out of their backups this season than in the past couple of years. Injuries have certainly played a part in that, but so has the front office’s willingness to make trades.
As a result, a number of lesser-known players have stepped up and had solid seasons. Josh Reynolds has filled in nicely for Robert Woods and Brandin Cooks, David Edwards looks good at guard and Taylor Rapp has played well in place of John Johnson.
But who has been the most underrated player for the Rams this season? That’s a question Pro Football Focus answered, pegging Troy Hill as the top choice. He’s certainly deserving of the honor, too.
Since taking over for Marcus Peters and Aqib Talib as a starting cornerback opposite Jalen Ramsey, Hill has put together a great stretch of play. While he’s being picked on by opposing quarterbacks, he’s holding his own in coverage.
Here’s what PFF wrote about Hill being the Rams’ most underrated player.
One may think Jalen Ramsey is the best cornerback on the Rams, but really, the best performing corner on the roster has been Troy Hill, who is currently eighth in PFF grade at 79.9. Hill has been the secret superstar of the Los Angeles Rams, as he is locking down his opponent in coverage, allowing a catch rate of just 47.1% (sixth-lowest). Hill was given starting duties back in Week 6, and since that week, he is PFF’s highest-graded cornerback.
Hill has been targeted 39 times this season but only allowed 20 completions, a rate of 51.3%. He’s given up just one touchdown and has one interception, allowing a passer rating of 66.8. Very quietly, he’s been one of the better corners in the league this season.
Rapp, Edwards and Reynolds are also good picks as the Rams’ most underrated player of the season, as is Cory Littleton, who’s been a star at inside linebacker, but Hill’s high level of play has made Los Angeles look wise for trading Peters and Talib when it did.
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