After leading the nation in tackles and earning MAC Defensive Player of the Year honors at Buffalo, Shaun Dolac is now chasing his NFL dream with the Los Angeles Rams.
Known for his relentless energy and high football IQ, Dolac caught up with LAFB Network to discuss his journey, mindset, and how he’s attacking his first NFL camp.
Q&A With Los Angeles Rams LB Shaun Dolac
1. What drew you to the Los Angeles Rams organization, and what stood out to you during the process of signing with the team?
The thing that really drew me to the Rams was the high energy and passion that not just the players play with, but the coaches as well. You see it from the top down, starting with Coach McVay. Being able to play under a high-intensity, high-passion coach is what I was looking for.
2. You led the nation with 168 total tackles last season. What went into that level of consistency and production?
The behind-the-scenes work. All the long days and nights I spent in the offseason working out, pushing myself past limits, watching film on not just my opponent, but myself also. Studying the game of football gives me so much enjoyment because of how often it pays off not just for me but for my teammates as well.
3. When you reflect on your journey at Buffalo, what moment means the most to you?
The moment that means the most to me has to be finishing off the season 9–5 with a win against Liberty in the Bahamas Bowl.
4. You’ve played all over the field. How does that versatility give you confidence heading into camp?
Having versatility gives me confidence because I’ve been in a lot of different positions before, so it allows coaches to trust me at different spots on defense or special teams. I am confident enough that with the right technique and knowledge, I can play all over the field.
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5. What does your weekly preparation look like now compared to college, whether it’s film, workouts, or recovery?
My weekly preparation has not changed a whole lot compared to college. Throughout college, I was blessed enough to meet a lot of players and staff who directed me into taking care of my body long before any issues started, the different ways to watch film, and ways to work out smarter.
6. Has there been a moment so far during OTAs or early training camp reps where you felt like, “yeah, I can do this at the NFL level”?
The first week of just being around the guys and being a part of the culture helped reaffirm that I truly belong in the National Football League. Preparing the right way every day also allows me to go onto the field with confidence.
7. What’s been your impression of Los Angeles Rams DC Chris Shula and the defensive coaching staff so far?
Coach Shula is a very passionate, high-energy football guy who knows the game better than anyone else. Being around the defensive coaching staff has been great. Seeing how close they are and just the amount of knowledge everyone has is great to be around.
8. The Los Angeles Rams are known for developing players who weren’t highly recruited or drafted. Have you felt that support since arriving?
Ever since the other rookies and I arrived, we have felt an overwhelming amount of support from the coaching staff and support staff. It doesn’t matter who you are; you can feel that they believe in giving you the tools and opportunities to succeed every day.
9. What’s been your approach to learning the defensive playbook and earning trust in the room?
My approach has been all about consistency and preparing the right way. I make it a priority to understand each play call so I can play fast and confident. The way you earn trust in the room is by making the most of every rep you get and doing your job correctly.
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10. Has anyone in the Los Angeles Rams locker room helped make the adjustment easier or offered advice that stuck with you?
There have been quite a few guys who have helped make the adjustments easier. To name a few: guys like Nate Landman, Omar Speights, Troy Reeder, and Tony Fields have all given me great advice on their own experience and what it takes to play at this level.
11. You were MAC Defensive Player of the Year and an All-American, but you’ve also made your mark on special teams. How important is that phase to you as you try to make an impact early?
Special teams is huge for me. It’s where I can show the type of player I am. Coming from a place with a big role on defense, I understand that everyone has to earn their way. Special teams is where I can show my toughness, my attention to detail, and athleticism. Special teams can help change a lot of games, so I take pride in every single rep I get because you never know which rep will be a game-decider.
12. What’s one thing you’ve learned since arriving in LA that surprised you, on the field or off it?
The weather is different than I expected. I honestly thought it would be crazy hot and humid. But it’s actually not bad at all. I can get used to the sun all year round.
13. As someone who plays with a ton of energy, what drives that fire in your game?
It’s the love of the game for me. Ever since I was a little kid, I was taught to play the game fast and with 100% of everything I got. Every time I step onto the field, I remember that little kid in me who dreamed of being in the position I am today.
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14. What kind of role do you hope to earn on this Los Angeles Rams team, and how do you define success in Year 1?
My goal is to earn a role where I can contribute to the team’s success both on and off the field. Whether that’s as a starter, a rotational player, or a key part of special teams. At the end of the year, if I grew as a player and helped the people around me get better to accomplish a common goal, then I consider that a success in year one.
15. For Los Angeles Rams fans who haven’t seen your tape yet, how would you describe your play style in your own words?
A player who plays with relentless effort, intensity, is instinctual, and smart. When you watch me on film, you will see me in the frame of every play because I am determined to be first to the ball every play.
16. How do you approach diagnosing plays pre-snap, and what keys do you typically look for as a linebacker?
Pre-snap, I look for a lot of keys based on the film I study throughout the week. Each team brings different tendencies and styles, figuring them out throughout the week and applying it to the game is key.
17. What’s the biggest difference in offensive schemes or tendencies you’ve noticed between college and the NFL?
The biggest difference is how complex and disciplined NFL offenses are. There are more pre-snap motions and disguises you have to be ready for each week.
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18. What’s one thing about you off the field that might surprise people, whether it’s a hobby, hidden talent, or interest?
I like to play a bit of golf, and I’m a beginner on the piano.
19. What’s your go-to pregame music or artist that gets you in the zone?
Classic Rock or Gospel.
20. Is there anything on your LA bucket list you’re hoping to check off now that you’re out here?
Lakers and Kings game.