Rams Cut Former Starting Defensive Back, Replace Him With Rookie Undrafted CB

Los Angeles Makes Roster Moves Before Week 1

The Los Angeles Rams have released former starting cornerback David Long Jr. and promoted undrafted rookie Cobie Durant to the active roster ahead of their season opener against the Buffalo Bills.

Long, a three-year starter for the Rams, struggled in the preseason and lost his job to Durant, who has impressed coaches with his playmaking ability and physicality.

Durant, a 6-foot-1, 205-pounder out of South Carolina State, was one of the most productive cornerbacks in the FCS last season, with six interceptions and 18 pass breakups.

He has quickly adapted to the NFL game and has shown a knack for making big plays, including a game-clinching interception in the Rams' preseason finale against the Denver Broncos.

The Rams are hoping that Durant can provide a spark to a defense that struggled last season, allowing the second-most passing yards in the NFL.

He will be tasked with replacing Long, who was a key contributor to the Rams' Super Bowl victory in 2021.

However, Long's performance declined last season, and he was benched in favor of Durant in the preseason.

The Rams are confident that Durant can step into a starting role and help them improve their defense in 2023.

Analysis

The Rams' decision to release Long and promote Durant is a sign of their confidence in the young cornerback.

Durant has shown a lot of promise in the preseason, and he has the potential to be a difference-maker for the Rams' defense.

He is a physical player with good size and speed, and he has a knack for making big plays.

The Rams are hoping that Durant can help them improve their defense, which struggled last season.

They allowed the second-most passing yards in the NFL, and they were often torched by opposing quarterbacks.

Durant has the potential to be a shutdown corner, and he could be a key piece of the Rams' defense for years to come.

What's Next?

The Rams will open their season on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills.

It will be a tough test for Durant, who will be facing one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL in Josh Allen.

However, Durant has shown that he is not afraid of a challenge, and he is confident that he can help the Rams get their season off to a good start.