Los Angeles Rams rookie seventh-round pick Nick Scott knows that if he wants to make an impact on the team this year it will have to be through special teams. Scott said he and special teams coordinator John Fassel sit down together at least once a week to watch film of guys who are special teams standouts like Matthew Slater of the New England Patriots.
“That’s exactly how I want to impact this team,” Scott said via the Los Angeles Times.
Scott has already played 38 special teams snaps this preseason and has caught the eye of coach Sean McVay, who has been impressed and thinks he could play a similar role like Slater.
“Really similar when you look at the difference that a Slater made for New England, and that’s kind of what you hope the role is,” McVay said. “I think he’s done a pretty good job as a safety as well.”
Scott started his Penn State Nittany Lions career as a running back, but his biggest impact early on came with special teams. He ended up switching from running back to safety, but he always knew that his route to the NFL would be through special teams.
“I had always sort of understood that special teams was, for a lot of guys, how you make the team, especially if you’re not that go-to starter,” he said. “My motivation was always to become the best safety I could be to get me a chance, and then let my ability on special teams take care of the rest.”
Thursday night is a big game for Scott and a good showing should lock up his spot on the Rams final 53.