Los Angeles Rams Believe Rookie Cornerbacks Prepared For Big Stage

The Los Angeles Rams put veteran cornerback Darious Williams on the reserve/injured list on Thursday. Just a few weeks ago they also added Derion Kendrick to the IR, ending his 2024 campaign. Last week, they also added Tre’ Tomlinson to the list as well.

Cobie Durant is also listed on the Rams injury report as a limited participant due to a hamstring injury

What once looked like an area of strength for the defense, will now be reliant on Tre’Davious White’s surgically repaired leg and a handful of first-time starters.

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Among those first-timers are two undrafted free agents. Michigan product, Josh Wallace, and Southern Methodist’s Charles Woods.

During his post-practice press conference, Rams defensive coordinator, Chris Shula was asked about those two specifically and his confidence in them. He started his answer by acknowledging the earned trust they have in both Woods and Wallace.

“Studying Josh Wallace coming out of Michigan he played in the national title [games].” Shula said’ “He played in some big time games. He’s been in the in the spotlight like that. He’s a very really smart guy really prepared. So we think that both of them can go out there and execute.”

In the Rams’ first two preseason games, the two were put to the test. Woods was primarily at slot corner, while Wallace was on the perimeter. That is where Williams was slated to play, opposite White.

In his final season with the Wolverines, Wallace was one of the best coverage corners in college football. He was targeted 42 times over 15 games. He allowed just 21 receptions and only 61 yards after the catch. He allowed just two explosive plays all season.

Durant will likely be the ‘next man up’ for the Rams, but there is a real chance that Wallace will garner some playing time over the next (at least) four weeks while Williams is on the IR.

More must-reads:

• It’s Chris Shula’s Time to Shine
• Los Angeles Rams Lose Key Defender to Hamstring Injury
• Los Angeles Rams Injury Report — Week 1