Four former Los Angeles Rams were claimed off waivers today, and one rookie landed with a rival after clearing waivers.
Cornerback Charles Woods was claimed by the Patriots, center Willie Lampkin went to the Eagles, cornerback Derion Kendrick signed with the Seahawks, and outside linebacker Brennan Jackson was picked up by the Raiders.
Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr. cleared waivers and then signed with the Seahawks. Los Angeles did not claim anyone back.
Did The Los Angeles Rams Make A Mistake?
That matters in a few practical ways. Losing Willie Lampkin removes a cheap swing interior option the Rams were using for depth and competition. Lampkin flashed in preseason, and his ability to slide between guard and center was valuable insurance, especially while Alaric Jackson ramps up from his recent medical issues.
Check Out Our Los Angeles Rams Merch HERE!
Philadelphia is known for developing offensive line talent, so the Rams just might have let a future Pro Bowler slip away. Without Lampkin, the Rams lean more heavily on the veteran backups they kept, which increases the value of players like Dedich and Quessenberry, and tightens the margin for OL injuries early in the season.
At corner and linebacker, the churn trims competition.
Charles Woods and Derion Kendrick both offered immediate depth and special teams utility. Kendrick signing with the Seahawks is extra salt for Los Angeles Rams fans, given the rivalry. Losing that perimeter depth raises the importance of the remaining cornerbacks and the health of starters, and it makes early-season reps for younger DBs more meaningful.
Brennan Jackson landing in Las Vegas is disappointing as well, as he never really got a shot to play much during the regular season last year due to injuries.
Why Would Rams Move On From Chris Paul Jr.?
Chris Paul Jr. going unclaimed, then signing with Seattle, is notable. The staff clearly preferred veteran familiarity and proven special teams players on the 53 over rookie upside, and the move shows the Rams prioritized roster flexibility over grabbing reclamation pieces off waivers.
It’s questionable, however, how they traded up for him and treated him like the future at linebacker months ago, only to abandon that idea after camp.
Subscribe To Our Los Angeles Rams LAFB YouTube Channel!
Pay attention to early week one game day elevations, special teams snap counts, and any quick signings to replace Lampkin inside, as the roster is still in a lot of flux.
If a young backup gets early reps and stays clean, this will look like a non-issue. If an OL or DB injury pops up, the absence of those waiver pickups can become glaring fast.