Knowing nothing about the inner life, injury history, etc. of Gregory or Jones, what I piece together from Snead's comments about aquisitions is this: At this juncture with a young and on-fire team that is creating its own brand of bonding and identity, lockerroom presence and fit will be critical. One guy who proved to be a drag, after plenty-enough chances to be otherwise is gone.
Judging by one recent interview, Kevin Dotson is a pro with a profesional attitude, serious, respectful, quiet, smart, and with a strong work ethic; a stable and mature good fit.
Snead also suggests that the Rams are not looking to fill temporary slots but want vet players who can contribute long-term. Is that either Gregory or Jones? Snead thought he had such a piece in Von Miller - had the money, but wasn't willing to extravagantly overpay. We know how that turned out. Lesson(s) learned?
Young is making some noise - and another young player who could be making some noise before too long is coming off IR. When do the Rams project that Mathis will be ready? They did save a slot on the 53 for him pending recovery from injury.
Meantime we haven't seen that much of VanValkenburg in place of Hoecht and the cryptic message I get from McVay seems to be that Mathis will soon be expected to contribute.
And as Kobie Turner continues to improve that frees up Donald. Against Philly that gives us two dangerous pass rushers and an occasional linebacker blitz from Jones. That's not enough to stop Jalen Hurtz but it might slow him down. That could be enough for a Rams O to score more points - if a veteran Stafford is healthy enough to go and his teammates and coach don't make game-losing mistakes.
