Sean McVay encouraged by offensive line but still 'a long, long way to go'
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theramswire.usatoday.com]
Skyler Carlin
Upon the addition of Matthew Stafford this offseason, the Los Angeles Rams are among the favorites to emerge from the NFC in 2021. One of the only things that could prevent the Rams from having success on offense is the play of the new-look offensive line. During his discussion about the team’s new offensive line coach, Kevin Carberry, Sean McVay shared how inspirited he’s been with the progress of the offensive line thus far.
He did add that it’s still early and there’s “a long, long way to go,” but he likes what he’s seen from the group.
“It’s still a little bit early. I am encouraged with what I’ve seen from the first two days in pads. It was also great to get Kevin Carberry out here, get a new offensive line coach this year,” McVay said. “I think he’s going to do a great job, but he’s been forced to kind of just run meetings on Zoom. Today was the first practice that he was able to take part in, but I think guys are doing a great job communicating. I like what I’m seeing. There’s a long, long way to go. There are so many things that go on up front with all five getting on the same page with the communication – the targets and the run game. But, I think we’re taking steps in the right direction. I’ve been really encouraged by a handful of guys.”
Following a so-so year from the offensive line in 2019, the unit was much better in 2020. Jared Goff had plenty of clean pockets to throw from, but it wasn’t enough for him to have a productive season under center, to no fault of the guys up front.
Andrew Whitworth continues to be the savvy blindside protector for Los Angeles, and Rob Havenstein remains at the right tackle spot. Where the Rams are going to look a bit different this season is on the interior. Despite losing Austin Blythe in free agency, McVay has raved about the growth of Austin Corbett, who is making the move from right guard to center as he’ll get the first crack at replacing Blythe.
As McVay iterated, it’s still early, and things could be subject to change as the preseason progresses. Outside of Whitworth and Havenstein, unproven players are being relied upon to keep Stafford upright. While the Rams continue to work out their kinks on the offensive line, McVay hopes that they can continue to show signs of improvement in the trenches ahead of their Week 1 bout with the Chicago Bears.
