Vets bringing more than just playing experience to the Rams...

Vets bringing more than just playing experience to the Rams

[cover32.com]

Andrew KellyAugust 15, 2017


This offseason the Rams signed Andrew Whitworth and Connor Barwin in free agency. Both of whom will start on their respective sides of the ball. They will undoubtedly be difference makers for the team on the field. Whitworth protecting the blindside of young quarterback Jared Goff and Barwin working opposite Robert Quinn at outside linebacker to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.

However, on a Rams team that will be one of the youngest in the NFL, their experiences leading NFL locker rooms may prove to be just as crucial in guiding their young teammates through the ups and downs of the season. Whitworth (35) is even older than Sean McVay. McVay arrives in Los Angeles as the youngest head coach in league history at 31 years of age.

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When the Rams signed veterans such as Barwin and Whitworth many people around the league preached that the Rams were signing players whose best days were behind them. On the field, this may be the case. In the locker room, however, these men have just continued to gain wisdom throughout their years. They have become stronger leaders, both verbally and by example, with every day that they have spent in the NFL.

While the “football contributions” of these players will be significant, especially given the astronomical increase from Greg Robinson (now with the Detroit Lions) to Andrew Whitworth, the differences that they have the opportunity to make in the locker room are also incredibly large.

This is a Rams team that has worked all offseason to fill the offense with playmakers in order to complement a defense. A defense that is sure to shine with the addition of defensive guru Wade Phillips. When coach Sean McVay was introduced to this team he said that it would be based around a process, but in the event that this team finds success, there are very few players who have experienced that at this point in their careers.

This is yet another point in which Whitworth and Barwin have an opportunity to lead. Whitworth has played in six playoff games and Barwin has played in five. Whitworth and Barwin stand to prove that they were very worthy offseason additions, both on and off the field.

– Andrew Kelly is a Staff Writer for cover32/Rams and covers the Los Angeles Rams. Like and follow on Follow @Andrew_K47 Follow @cover32_LAR