Tavon Austin
Speedster Tavon Austin, as expected, has jettisoned excitement throughout the Rams’ organization as a receiver, running back, and punt returner during the OTAs. An explosive and sudden athlete, he cuts sharply with good body control and gets to warp speed quickly. He is a playmaker with speed, quickness, and field awareness. A slippery space athlete, he has been productive over his career. He is a darter with a burst to separate. In 2012 he led the country in all-purpose yards. Alec Ogletree is getting work at the “Will” linebacker position in the Rams’ 4-3 system. He is improving his use of hands to control blockers and receivers. A former safety, he understands man-to-man and zone coverage concepts. He plays with outside leverage, keeping tempo on the ball carrier. A fluid and flexible athlete, he is a four down player with quick hands and feet. Free safety TJ McDonald adds a physical presence in center field. He is explosive when delivering a blow to the chest area of the ball carrier. Sudden to break on the ball, he is physically tough, aggressive, and competitive in his play. He is very willing to force the action on run support. McDonald has a rangy long-armed build. He is quick to recognize and react to pass or run. Stedman Bailey snatched 25 touchdown passes in 2012. A playmaker, he had 20 catches of 25 yards or more last fall. A productive undersized receiver, he has outstanding body control and good run after catch ability. He’s a natural hand catcher with good ball skills. A slot type receiver, he possesses quickness and a unique skill set. Center Barrett Jones has missed OTAs while recovering from Lisfranc surgery on his left foot. He will not wow you with his athletic ability, but will play smart with good technique. The most decorated offensive lineman in Alabama history, Jones is versatile enough to play anywhere along the line of scrimmage. He has good football quickness when he comes off the ball and uses his hands well. Brandon McGee adds depth to the secondary with his instincts, reactions, and football intelligence. He is fluid in his movement and has experience in both the outside and inside as a nickel corner. He is a tough and competitive player in the run game or when covering down the field. In addition, he will also contribute as a gunner and jammer on special teams. Zac Stacy epitomizes what Jeff Fisher is trying to establish in St. Louis. Stacy is a tough and guts type runner who runs hard and quick through the hole. He has good vision to see the holes and running lanes on the inside and outside runs. His play and performance consistency may move him by Isaiah Pead on the depth chart. GRADE: GOOD.
Box 235 Hiawatha, IA 52233