The Los Angeles Rams look to build upon a bounce-back 2023 season. The Rams found themselves in the postseason once again a year after a tumultuous 2022 that saw them go 5-12. But before they can look to make a return to the playoffs, the Rams must first complete their roster in the preseason for the 2024 NFL campaign. That means figuring out who on the roster bubble will find themselves on the right side of that equation. A couple of those players entering training camp include Ronnie Rivers and Tyler Johnson.
A capable running back in Ronnie Rivers
The Los Angeles Rams discovered an under-the-radar gem last year in Kyren Williams. He broke out in a big way in 2023 by delivering 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground in just 12 games. He also added 32 receptions for 206 yards and three more scores. But, he did miss some time last year, which paved the way for a few other running backs to get some playing time as well.
One of those players was Ronnie Rivers. His 2023 season wasn't world-beating by any means, but he showed that he's a solid, NFL-caliber running back. He handled 32 carries and took them for 129 yards. Rivers really put himself on the map in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts when he ran for 47 yards on just nine carries.
Rivers was also quite productive in college with Fresno State. He averaged over five yards a carry during his five seasons there and scored 51 touchdowns. He was also productive as a receiver out of the backfield in college, catching 150 passes in Fresno and having at least 20 receptions in each of his five collegiate seasons.
Last season, Rivers played well as a backup who could give Williams a breather for a few plays. However, his path to making the Rams' 53-man roster for the 2024 NFL season after preseason action will be more difficult than last year. Los Angeles drafted Michigan running back Blake Corum in the third round and also signed Boston Scott as a free agent.
Rivers may have the leg up on Zach Evans for the Rams' fourth running back spot. That is if they carry four backs. Either way, Rivers needs a big preseason to prove to the Rams that he's worthy of a roster spot for the 2024 NFL season.
Enough room for Tyler Johnson?
Another player who will have to show out in the preseason to stamp himself a spot on the Rams' 53-man roster for the 2024 NFL season is Tyler Johnson. Johnson has bounced around the league a bit. He began his career in Tampa Bay and was on the Buccaneers' roster when they won the Super Bowl in 2020. Johnson made the team in 2021 but didn't play much behind Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Antonio Brown.
He got waived in 2022 and proceeded to make a few pit stops across the NFL. That included a cup of coffee with the Houston Texans for a couple of games and the Buccaneers once again on their practice squad. But he didn't register a single reception in that season. He eventually found his way to the Rams in 2023 where he didn't get much playing time until Week 18. Johnson caught two passes with one going for a touchdown.
Johnson has his work cut out for him in the preseason to make the Rams' 53-man roster for the 2024 NFL season. Los Angeles brings back four receivers from last year's team and also drafted Texas' Jordan Whittington in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. They also signed Oklahoma slot receiver Drake Stoops as an undrafted free agent.
Johnson will likely to have to outperform those two players to make this team. It is certainly feasible, but he'll have to bring it every day. Whether or not he does will be worth watching and monitoring.
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