Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, head coach Sean McVay, and rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson address the media in Phase 3 Week 1 of Organized Teams Activities (OTAs).
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Speaker 1 (00:01):
Everyone wants to know the connection with Davonte.
Speaker 2 (00:03):
Was it?
Speaker 3 (00:04):
That was good?
Speaker 4 (00:04):
Yeah, I mean it's always a work in progress. You know,
we're always uh talking out there, which is a lot
of fun. A guy that's a veteran players, played a
lot of football, had a lot of success. So it's
fun just trying to communicate as much as I can
with him. Obviously, he made some great play today, you know,
but it's fun to work with guys that understand the
game and and you know.
Speaker 3 (00:21):
Still have a lot left in the tanks. So it
was good watch.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
Film on Davonte before you got here.
Speaker 4 (00:27):
I mean I've sat and watched, you know, from the
sideline a bunch of times, played against him a bunch,
so I kind of know what he's about obviously. Uh,
you know, have grown, you know, to have even more
appreciation just being in the in the room with him
and working with him. So uh, you know, he's got
a great career going and you know, just happy to
be a part of it.
Speaker 5 (00:46):
Obviously, his impact with the younger players as well as
far as making sure they get up to the same
speed and you guys can be able to click on
one accord.
Speaker 4 (00:54):
Yeah, I know, he's Uh, he's definitely, you know, a
veteran guy who's he's got a bunch of snaps under
his belt. I'm doing everything I can to try to,
you know, bring him along in our offense as fast
as possible.
Speaker 3 (01:03):
He understands the game, so that's great.
Speaker 4 (01:05):
And and we just go out there and all work
together try to be as good as we can. This
is it's early first practice, you know, out on the grass,
run around, so just trying to get our feet wet
and and you know, continue to work hard and get better.
Speaker 6 (01:17):
You throw a lot of different types of receivers over says,
I mean, I'm wondering as you learn a guy, as
you learn what his range is, where he likes the ball,
place where you like do you have anything technically like
that you guys do besides talking about it that you
kind of it's one of your go tos to sort
(01:37):
of test how someone will be.
Speaker 3 (01:39):
Yeah, no, I think, Uh, you know, I was.
Speaker 4 (01:41):
I was texting with him, you know, late last week
a little bit and just saying, hey, man, you you're
a great player because of your skill set, and I'm
going to continue to you know, work and watch and
whether that's watching live after I throw and then go
back and rewatch and make sure what I was seeing
and feeling at that moment was really Then we just
talk about it too. Right after every single set feels
like we're over there talking about, hey, this is kind
(02:01):
of how I'm thinking I'm gonna come out of this
or feel that, and and it's just constant dialogue and
and honestly, you know, those are the best relationships I've
had with receivers and the most success that I've had
is the guys that uh, you know, want to talk
to you on how, you know, what they felt what
they were doing.
Speaker 3 (02:15):
And I can also say, hey, this would look like
from my angle and go from there.
Speaker 4 (02:19):
But he's definitely he has that feeling as that understanding,
and that's that's a huge positive.
Speaker 5 (02:24):
That's something you.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
Worked about and set that previously.
Speaker 4 (02:29):
Watching him, I mean, I always had a ton of respect,
So I mean it just continues to be the same.
Speaker 3 (02:36):
You know, I always, you know, hate.
Speaker 4 (02:38):
It going against him because I knew he's gonna, you know,
put up numbers and play.
Speaker 3 (02:40):
At a high level. But just watch them go about it.
Speaker 4 (02:44):
In whatever year this is for him to be out
there and in May working the way he's working, doing
what he's doing to try to, you know, get caught
up on our offense as fast as possible. Just the
way he goes about his businesses. Uh, is commendable for sure.
Speaker 5 (02:55):
Matthew.
Speaker 2 (02:55):
It looks like NFL players are gonna be able to
play in the Black Football and twenty twenty eight Olympics.
What do you think of I know that.
Speaker 3 (03:06):
You know beyond if you're talking about coaching, would you
would you be.
Speaker 2 (03:12):
Think you'd be interested in play?
Speaker 3 (03:14):
Sure?
Speaker 4 (03:14):
I mean, I nobody's gonna want me to. Yeah, sure,
that'd be fun coach.
Speaker 3 (03:20):
During your career, learn.
Speaker 1 (03:21):
How to watch film pair.
Speaker 7 (03:23):
For games when you first got to the league.
Speaker 8 (03:25):
Did you notice a big.
Speaker 6 (03:25):
Difference when you watching the film in college and watching
the film?
Speaker 3 (03:29):
Oh? Yeah, absolutely.
Speaker 4 (03:31):
You know it's something that I think, Uh, you got
to learn as you go, you know.
Speaker 3 (03:36):
I mean it's one of those things that.
Speaker 4 (03:39):
You know. I leaned on the veteran guys that I
had around me when I was first coming around in
the NFL to to try and help me through that process.
And then I was around smart players as well and
just try to pick their brain. But everybody kind of
has to figure out the formula that works for them.
And you know, there was some some interesting times too.
The games evolved so much, you know, in seventeen years.
(04:00):
I mean it's you know, what used to be around
on defense is not around anymore, and.
Speaker 3 (04:04):
There's just so much more complexity to it.
Speaker 4 (04:07):
And then you know, playing with a guy like Calvin
early in my career, I would watch all this tape
and then you go out and watch the play the
game and nobody was running the same coverages because they
were just clouding to him the whole game or doubling
him or vising him or whatever it was.
Speaker 3 (04:18):
So you got to kind of figure it out as
you go.
Speaker 4 (04:21):
But I was always just trying to be a sponge
and just take as much as I possibly could in
you know, about the game of football. And and you know,
I think later in my career it's helped me out.
Speaker 7 (04:31):
Uh did you meet on coaches at all or is
it sounds like you way?
Speaker 9 (04:35):
Yeah?
Speaker 4 (04:35):
Some yeah, some coaches, Yeah, I mean obviously, Uh, you know,
I had some you know, experienced coordinators when I first
got into the league, the guys that really helped me out.
And then you know players as well, you know, coaches
are doing so much to try and prepare for the
next game or you know, scout ahead, do all those
kinds of things. Uh, you got to lean on the
guys that are actually playing in those games and and
how they go about it and how they get ready
and and uh was able to you know, bounce some
(04:57):
ideas off of those guys.
Speaker 3 (04:58):
Jay, can you speak.
Speaker 1 (04:59):
To to It's Ferguson.
Speaker 2 (05:00):
What are you most excited about what you've seen from him?
Speaker 4 (05:02):
So, yeah, I mean, I think it's just it's always
fun when you get young guys in here eager to
come out here to play football and prove themselves. You know,
whether it's guys on offense or defense. It's it's exciting
to have young guys around here that in our in
our front office, and I held the job last couple
of years of finding guys that are ready to go
and play. And so just excited for him for his opportunity. Obviously,
(05:24):
was a fan of his during the season last year
in college when saw him, you know, run around there
at Oregon doing some doing some really nice stuff. So
you know, excited for him. Again, it's all development at
this stage. We're just trying to figure out who we're
going to be as a team. Everybody try to figure out,
you know, how they can get better as a player,
and he's no different.
Speaker 3 (05:40):
But excited to have him a couple of homes.
Speaker 9 (05:42):
Sean talked earlier in the spring about wanting to find.
Speaker 2 (05:44):
New ways to incorporate into the team, into the offense,
and obviously connected off with him in the Montdowns bad
but just how do you use to see this fit
into this version with the Rams offense?
Speaker 4 (05:53):
Yeah, I mean I think we're building that version right now.
Right we've run whatever that was eighteen twenty five, thirty plays,
whatever it was today, So we're figuring that out. We're
building as we go to to I got a lot
of respect for too. I mean, he's a he's a
really smart guy. He's a guy that can play all
three spots for us because of his ability to understand
where he fits.
Speaker 3 (06:11):
And I think he continues to get better, you know.
Speaker 4 (06:13):
I think I've seen him grow as a football player,
see him grows a human being, all those kind of things.
As a professional, He's done a hell of a job
the last couple of years. And I think when you
turn the tape on and watch that's, you know, it
shows up so happy for his success, happy for us
to you know, get another chance to work with him
for another year, and you know, looking for big things.
Speaker 3 (06:31):
Obviously he's got the one thing everybody knows, he can
really run.
Speaker 4 (06:34):
But I think he plays away from his body really well,
catching the football, understands where he fits in in the
run game and the schemes, and and obviously Sean and
the coaching staff does a really nice job of finding
ways to utilize his you know, best traits and best attributes,
you know, on a down and down out basis.
Speaker 6 (06:49):
Krine is in the process of his first significant contract
negotiation as an NFL player. For him to be at OTAs,
I guess, does that send a signal to you as
the quarterback about just sort of what it means to
have him here regardless.
Speaker 2 (07:04):
Of any of that.
Speaker 4 (07:05):
Yeah, I mean, I you know, I'm hesitant to talk
about anybody else's business. I just know, uh, the kind
of player that Karen is and the kind of human
being and the teammate that he is. We all love
and respect him. The way he goes about his business,
the way he works, the way he plays the game.
It jumps off the screen I know to you guys
as well, just the passion that he plays with. So
not surprising that he's out here when the football is
(07:26):
you know, put down on the ground. He's he's playing.
But you know, whatever you know needs to happen for
him and for us as a team. Whatever that's you know,
that's uh, that's not my business. But I love having
him as a teammate, love and respect the way he
plays and goes about his business.
Speaker 1 (07:39):
What's what streats have you seen from Jordan Whittington from
the end of last season to now?
Speaker 4 (07:45):
Yeah, I mean I think he put in a great offseason.
I saw him, you know, working with Puka and some
of those guys. Uh, so he's come back ready to go.
You know, his physical dude can run, great, special teams player,
guy that can fit in again like to two, can
play all the spots if you need him too, which
is great. The more of those guys that you have
on your team, the better. But just you know, excited
(08:06):
to see his growth too. You know, the more opportunities
these guys get to play in NFL football, the better
they're gonna be. And and he's definitely a guy that
when he gets an opportunity, he really does everything he
can to try and take advantage of it, and you
got a bunch of guys like that on your team.
Speaker 3 (08:18):
I feel pretty good about it.
Speaker 9 (08:20):
Matter news drive. The process of kind of getting into
a deviante and getting.
Speaker 5 (08:24):
At the safe page that.
Speaker 2 (08:25):
A great player like he is, is it like a
fun challenge just a motivating inspiring and to describe.
Speaker 3 (08:30):
Yeah, definitely, I mean it's yeah, it's definitely motivating.
Speaker 4 (08:32):
You know, I wanna I want to be great for
all the guys in that locker room, but definitely you
get new players in, guys that you've got a ton
of respect for me, and I want to make sure that,
uh you know, he's getting everything he needs for me,
and likewise, I know he probably feels the same way,
so uh you know, I it's always a process getting
to figure that kind of stuff out. But uh, you know,
just the few reps we've had out here today and
and all that, I mean, he's he's a special player
(08:54):
for a reason. He's been a really good player in
this league for a long time for a reason, and
and I'm gonna do everything I can to try and
help him have great success here. And if we do that,
then that's going to be successful for our team. So
you know, I'm doing everything I can to try and
make sure that I'm as good as I can be
for everybody in that locker room.
Speaker 3 (09:08):
But he's he's definitely want them for sure.
Speaker 1 (09:10):
All Right, that's up, guys, okays, go ahead.
Speaker 3 (09:13):
Both What have you seen so far?
Speaker 1 (09:14):
Out of ten out of who? Yeah, Terrence has been good.
You know, really today was the first day that we
could do eleven on eleven. These guys got here a
couple of weeks ago. Seeing a guy that's been real
attentive in meetings, got a really good feel, you know.
Really it's routes on air and then what we saw
today which is a limited body of work, but just
been really impressed with him and really the rookie class
as a whole. Our Vets have done a good job
(09:35):
welcome these guys with open arms, but looking forward to
seeing him just continue to take it a step at
a time. Scooter Huff does a great job with our
tight ends and so so far, so good.
Speaker 5 (09:45):
What have you seen out of DeVonta? You know his
body of work and what he's been able to do.
But just is my state coming into this new offense
and new system, new team.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
Yeah, I think the first thing, Nick, I've been really
impressed with his willingness to share, his openness and his
refer rushing humility in terms of being coached, but then
being able to offer his insight. It's fun to be
able to listen to, you know. He and Matthew have
a dialogue of their accumulated experiences and getting on the
same page for how they want to be able to
do things. But he's been great, you know, he's had
a similar to what I was just saying about Terrence,
(10:15):
but he's been a great in the meetings, incredibly detail oriented.
You can see how smart he is. There's a couple
of things that are new in terms of the vernacular,
but a lot of this stuff is you know, same
as or maybe just a couple of subtle tweaks. But
his ability to be able to learn, his ability to
be able to listen and then ultimately lead, has been
a big factor.
Speaker 5 (10:35):
For the younger guys specifically, what do you feel like
you can impact them the most and as far as
where they are to get them, what you more thing
to do. As far as Devonte has his experiences for
the younger guys specific.
Speaker 1 (10:47):
Areas, I think there's nothing more powerful. Seeing is better
than said, you know the way he moves, but then
his willingness to share. You know. I think what's cool
is is these guys, the more comfortable they get, the
more comfortable they'll be to be able to ask questions.
I think Eric Yarbor, Nate and Rob do such a
great job of creating an open dialogue. We want our
meetings to be conversational, not just transferring information. But you
(11:10):
know the way that he moves, what's his rhythm and routine,
and then his willingness to share based on his experiences
and credibility that he's earned over the years.
Speaker 6 (11:17):
Sand for you to expand on within sixteen times today?
Speaker 1 (11:22):
Oh yeah, this was months ago. He's traveling with his family.
Pretty cool opportunity. You got to be able to go
travel with his mom. He was getting back today, he'll
be here. So he's done a great job of communicating
a couple months ago.
Speaker 7 (11:33):
And then Jade went sniping did and grove excents to
share them.
Speaker 6 (11:36):
Yeah, I see a difference of preparedness from obviously coming
in his rookie last year.
Speaker 1 (11:42):
And it's funny. I was just talking to him out
on the field, Jordan, what I think is great is
when guys put the work in and they just continue
to show I'm getting better and better and I'm creating value,
whether that's on teams or whether that's done a great
job within his role as a receiver. You can see
the accumulation of experiences led to a confidence ability to
be able to fill and when needed. Thought he had
a really good day today. You can see he's just
(12:04):
got a real comfort level in terms of what's being asked. Well,
it's see antenna, some of these plays, what are the
route nuances? And where do I fit within these concepts?
And so I've just been really proud of the progress,
the maturity. But you know, when you talk to people,
even going back to his time at Texas, this is
kind of who he's been. He's been all that and
more with us, and today was an excellent step in
(12:24):
the right direction for him.
Speaker 2 (12:25):
Sean still interested in trading, possibly trading for Jalen right now?
Speaker 1 (12:29):
Yeah, we would never close out those opportunities.
Speaker 2 (12:31):
What can you give us an update on what the
status is. I mean, there's that June first date that's approaching.
Speaker 1 (12:37):
You and I both know that's not a real date though,
I mean, no, here Here's what I would say. There's
not a whole lot that I have to offer. You know,
there's a lot of layers with something of that magnitude
when you're talking about the caliber of the player, all right,
the compensation that they're looking for in return, What does
that look like in terms of how they want to
handle what he's actually do. Obviously, we love Jalen, we
(12:59):
know Jalen. Intimately there would be some things that we
would need to be able to do if that was
going to be a direction that we went. We certainly
haven't closed the door on that. But there hasn't been
a whole lot of dialogue as of late, you know,
in regards to some of the communication, and so we'll
see if that changes. But these things can happen quickly.
But it's really kind of same as is what it
was a couple of weeks ago.
Speaker 2 (13:18):
Which you expected, jaramp Up.
Speaker 3 (13:20):
I mean you could I.
Speaker 1 (13:21):
Would say this if there if there really hasn't been
any meaningful, tangible dialogue as of late, but that can
always change, you know, pretty quickly, as you know you.
Speaker 2 (13:31):
Can add ye, would you want to have the secondary anyway?
Speaker 8 (13:34):
No?
Speaker 1 (13:35):
I feel good about where we're at. You know, obviously
Jalen's a unique deal, but you know, I really like
and I think we all feel this way. You know,
in terms of the guys that have played, We've gotten
a lot of guys that have played meaningful ball at
the corner position, at the safety, We've got some different
guys that can flex between safety, dime linebacker, the nickel
star spot. And so I think that the way that
guys will approach similar to Jordan's question, Greg, there's a
(13:57):
lot of young guys or maybe even guys that maybe
are new to the Rams but have accumulated a bunch
of experience that I think are only going to continue
to take steps. I think when you really look at
I thought that Kobe Durant took amazing strides last year. Obviously,
Kell Witherspoon played great. I think him being here in
the offseason is a big deal. Darius Williams, you know,
has been an excellent player for US. I don't think
(14:18):
anybody can minimize, you know, that hamstring injury that he
had to, you know, work through in the early parts
of the year. And then it was great to see
Darren Kendrick out here and Emmanuel Forbes made a play,
so you know, there's a handful guy that saw Sean
Jolly get in on a pick today. So do feel
really good about the development of that group led by
Aubrey President Chris Beak and Mike Harris plumped into that
(14:40):
started right in here the beginning a new defense. Yeah,
year last year, what did you see from him now
that he's had the windsor to more in the system.
You know, I was really impressed with the way that
he came in, his willingness to be coached, his openness
to maybe some different techniques, and that's really tough to
do in the middle of the year, especially given the
back around with the Washington and I thought he came
(15:01):
in with a great demeanor and disposition. Aubrey always does
such a good job of being able to connect with guys.
Let me connect with you first, then let me learn
how we can continue to communicate, speak the same languages,
and then I'll be able to slowly feed you kind
of what we're trying to be able to get done
in bite size increments. And you've just seen the progression
today was the first step. But you can see even
when he's responding to questions what he's showing in the
(15:23):
walkthrough is even watching him in some full speed settings today,
you see the ability, you know, in some of the
individual drills, the movements, the ability to get in and
out of breaks and things like that, and then the
length and the ball skills to be able to you know,
pick the ball off. Those are big deals. I thought
he did some really good stuff against Seattle in Week
eighteen last year, and so I'm encouraged to really use
this as an evaluation. And you guys know, we try
(15:46):
to get as many meaningful reps in these settings as possible,
the closest thing to real football without playing tackles when
we can put the pads on. So there still is
an understanding of you know, we're just trying to set foundations.
But I think he's done a really good job with
what he can control.
Speaker 2 (16:00):
Sina hits there.
Speaker 6 (16:02):
Matthew traded here.
Speaker 7 (16:03):
Cayman as a veteran knows how to prepare and watch film.
Speaker 3 (16:06):
But over the course of your career.
Speaker 6 (16:07):
How are you handled Washington with quarterbacks on your roster
and maybe trying to teach them as they make.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
The jump from college to them. Yeah, that's a really
good question. I think, you know, the first thing is
is who's the quarterback coach or the coordinator and what's
been their rhythm and routine? And David goin. I've obviously
known Dave for a while, but when you talk about
a guy that has such a specific sequential process for
the weekly rhythm for the quarterbacks while also having the
necessary flexibility to say, all right, sew, Matthew's done it,
(16:33):
this is how Jimmy's done it. Now, I'm really being
able to help Stetson continue to develop a rhythm and routine.
And I think what he does a great job of
is he's able to really, you know, reach that person
with the most experience while also accommodating to somebody that's
getting familiar with it. But I think it's being able
to break it up into segments, similar to how we
kind of implement a game plan and then make sure
(16:54):
you don't take anything for granted. I kind of mentioned
it earlier, the conversational meetings. You know, you can give
all this information. Guys kind of nod, but unless you
force him to give it back to you, and then
they're able to show it and you know, jogg through
where some of these walkthrough settings and then in the practice.
But I just think Dave does a great job and really,
you know, have such trust in him to be able
to kind of implement that with those guys. Sure, and
(17:15):
we know that you guys.
Speaker 6 (17:17):
Met with Ja Rosenhausl and Kiren and Calm had conversations
progressed past that point and follow up. What does it
mean despite the ongoing conversation that he's out here.
Speaker 1 (17:28):
Yeah, I think, first of all, Drew's been outstanding, you know,
I think the dialogue has been really healthy and you know,
the one thing about these negotiations is is trying to
be able to figure out all right, where is that
that line that fits kind of what everybody wants to
be able to get done. And we all know how
much we love Kyen. Drew's got a responsibility. I think
his communication has been excellent and Kiren has been the
(17:48):
same stud that we know, great demeanor, great willingness to
come out here to work, to be able to get better.
He's been great in terms of our communication. It means
a lot, you know, just because you don't minimiz those
things are real and those are real things that guys
have to navigate. You want to make sure that you're
asking the right questions giving them opportunities to be able
to give you that feedback and just keep the communication
(18:10):
lines open and you know, hopefully we'll see where this goes.
But I think it's been really healthy and positive progress
for sure. Sean in the in the latest Find the
Grind episode, we saw how behind the grind.
Speaker 3 (18:22):
He's how invested you were in trying to.
Speaker 1 (18:24):
Go get jar pull out pieces of that. You never
know who the hell I was talking about right there?
Speaker 3 (18:30):
Well, what did you like about him? And what have
you seen?
Speaker 1 (18:32):
Yeah? I think you know, I think when you look
at it, really all six of our picks we had
a real appreciation for. I think that's what lesson his group,
in collaboration with our coaches did a great job is
let's have a vision for how these guys fit. Let's
play the game in terms of our where do we
think the rest of the league sees these guys. Jark
Webs was a guy in addition to some other running
backs that we had real appreciation for. There was a
(18:54):
vision for how he fit. We got a chance to
have a zoom meeting with him as coaches. Just like
this demeanor. I think when you look at the production
that he had at Auburn going against the caliber of
players that he's going against, the guy that can hit
home runs, and so there was a lot to like
about him. But the other five guys, and really a
lot of these undrafted free agents felt the same way.
Speaker 2 (19:11):
Sean copy boy against black football is going to be
part of the Olympics and NFL players, Yeah, it looks
like we're gonna be able to play. What's your view
on on black football being part of the Olympics and
would you think will you encourage your players to participate?
Speaker 1 (19:26):
Yeah, I think it's great. I think, you know, that
is so far away from me in coach coaching years
or dog years, you know that, Gary, you know so
I think if guys, you know, you hear Justin Jefferson
come out and talk about man, that would be really cool.
That's awesome. Like, I think you give guys the opportunity
to say, all right, well, what's your preference on I
think whatever our guys are. You know, there's gonna be
the availability for maybe one guy on each team to
(19:48):
be able to do that. And if that's something that
players say they want to be able to do, then
I think it's a really cool experience for them. To
be able to be a part of we also acknowledging that. Man,
there's some other guys that have been doing it. I'm
not going to pretend to understand the nuances tactically and
what that game entails, but I think it's good. I
think it's great.
Speaker 2 (20:06):
Get back to the communication to Matthew and Davonte. You
consider Matthews per season with Hooper, his versus woperd.
Speaker 1 (20:13):
A history, yea, those natures and production.
Speaker 8 (20:16):
What's been the most impressive thing to you?
Speaker 5 (20:19):
And how matt been above.
Speaker 2 (20:20):
Works to a gilt these receivers.
Speaker 1 (20:21):
It gets tech chemistry so bid Well, I think you
just said it, Omar. It's his ability to communicate, you know,
his ability to communicate to connect, and then he listens
to understand. You know, you get around a lot of
people and they're just telling you what they want. But
he's got this really great way of having real clarity
on what he's looking for, but an openness, in a
humility to be able to listen and work in coordination.
(20:41):
And man, that that's where you inspire people to want
to be able to work alongside you. And he's done
that with receivers. He's he does that with the offensive lineman.
It's really whoever. And that's why I think when you're
innately thrust into a leadership position, it's why when you
talk to his teammates or coaches, everybody loves this guy.
I've said it and I've referenced it a couple of times.
I remember a few years ago dan Orlowski said he's
(21:01):
got this great way to be one of the guys,
but you also know he's the man at the same time,
and that's a real fine line to be able to balance.
But he does that authentically and organically with his personality.
But it's just he's got great communication and he and
he's put in so much work to have, you know,
such a you know, an understanding of what it looks
like to do this at a high clip. And uh,
(21:22):
you know, I just see him over there. He's getting
ready to turn fifty here pretty soon too, so uh
just kidding, and see over there, a big guy got
there to know him.
Speaker 9 (21:35):
Man, what do you like about talking to coach?
Speaker 1 (21:37):
You know what I like, Greg is I like the
opportunity to be able to have people that are in
similar platforms where you're always trying to learn and share
and even though there might be some different things specifically
or tactically. You know, there's so many, so much crossover
and leadership in the platform that we're blessed to be
able to have. I got connected with JJ a little
bit before he took the job, and had always respected
(21:57):
him from Afar. But I mean, you talk about a
welltha out guy, you know, great willingness to be able
to look inwardly at all? Right, where are those areas
of improvement understanding how you bring people together? And so
really enjoyed him coming out, and I think the guys
did today too. Okay, thanks guys, how's it going?
Speaker 9 (22:14):
What's up? Are you guys? Appreciated what they experience.
Speaker 8 (22:19):
Has been like the last couple of weeks since you've
been here.
Speaker 9 (22:22):
Yeah, the experience has been great.
Speaker 8 (22:23):
You know, are you land in a spot like this
with these people, the teammates, the staff, everybody has just
been amazing. So it's been a great experience. And then
everyone's poured into me. So it's been an amazing experience.
Speaker 1 (22:34):
What you thought it would be or is it different?
Speaker 9 (22:36):
That's better than what I thought.
Speaker 8 (22:37):
You know, I got a lot of people as soon
as I got drafted here, so this is a great
spot to be and it's exceeded my expectations.
Speaker 9 (22:44):
So I think it's pretty hard to do with a
high standard that was already set for it.
Speaker 5 (22:48):
Who's poured into you the most, the players that are
poured into you the most of dinner.
Speaker 8 (22:51):
Yeah, Higgs is someone who jumps right off the bat.
I say all the tight ends, though, have really leaned
in and really helped me out with whether it's the playbook,
a little subtle things that you know makes Higgs great,
and being a veteran guy like that, knowing and playing
a lot of ball, and just being willing to pour
into a young guy like meats.
Speaker 9 (23:09):
So I'd say Higgs been especially I'm competent.
Speaker 7 (23:12):
Obviously, they don't want to put too much on you
too early, But can you tell us about one thing
that you've really taken it upon yourself to try to
master while you're here out here, something that maybe starts
your onboarding process in the way that you should developed me.
Speaker 8 (23:29):
Yeah, I think the biggest thing is just knowing the offense,
getting that under your belt, you know what to do,
knowing that they can trust me to be where I
need to be and get familiar with the offense. I
think that's what every rookie does, and so just being
able to come in and learn the playbook fast, I
think that's been something I've been trying.
Speaker 9 (23:44):
To lean into.
Speaker 5 (23:45):
What are the conversations with Poach Wickbag since you've gotten
here and being able to get acclimated to that system
and understanding what his expert sexuals are of you is
Weathers're all.
Speaker 9 (23:54):
Yeah, No, it's been amazing with Coach Vay. He's really
poured into me and leaning me.
Speaker 8 (23:57):
Out there with just a little subtle things I can
change and get better at, and just where he has
a lot of love for me and I appreciate that.
And so just being able to talk with him and
being able to play for someone like him is a
dream come true. So you know, it's been it's been
an amazing experience so far.
Speaker 1 (24:13):
And you talked about, you know, you talked about watching
some film of this offense from year back and forth.
Speaker 9 (24:18):
Yeah, now that you're here and hit it is, then
I think that's kind of surprised you.
Speaker 1 (24:22):
And learning about this system.
Speaker 9 (24:24):
I wouldn't say so.
Speaker 8 (24:25):
We watched a lot of the Rams offense that Oregon took,
took some plays and some ideas from coach McVay in
this offense, so you know, being able to watch it
beforehand and then also get into it.
Speaker 9 (24:36):
Obviously it's very complex. It's a great.
Speaker 8 (24:38):
Offense to be in. So I think that's probably about it.
But I've seen a little bit of it and then uh,
high expectations, and like I said, it's exceeded that. So
it's been amazing.
Speaker 6 (24:47):
We see the biggest adjustment where you will be during
the stays.
Speaker 9 (24:51):
Yeah, I think just you know, learning the plays fast.
Speaker 8 (24:54):
You know, you have a quick turnaround from going from
college to the whatever special game you played in the
combine then coming out here. So it's just a quick
turnaround learning the offense and then be able to get
comfortable and playing the football that you used to playing.
Speaker 9 (25:07):
I think that's the biggest thing.
Speaker 1 (25:09):
There's more similarities between the RAMS offense and ordinances that
helped you kind of get onboarded and you know, feel
comfortable coming in.
Speaker 9 (25:16):
Yeah.
Speaker 8 (25:16):
I think just the way use a lot of motions
to get people open, scheme things open, and I think
a lot of things are similar with the offensive style
with the motioning.
Speaker 9 (25:26):
But I'll just say kind of the concepts some of them.
I have a lot of carryover.
Speaker 8 (25:30):
We did a great job at Oregon of prepping these
guys to learn a lot of offenses. You know, I
played for a couple ocs, and you know, we had
a lot of concepts in there for a college offense,
and so being able to carry that over to here
has been really big for me.
Speaker 6 (25:42):
This offense morally manipulate the space.
Speaker 7 (25:45):
But obviously when you're in coming from college, everything is
space on the field, hash parks, everything's different, the balls
coming out, like the right handed quarterback.
Speaker 6 (25:52):
Now we're sutill. How have you caught yourself having to
retrain yourself in different ways understanding within this offense you're
going to be tasked to maximize this news space.
Speaker 8 (26:02):
Yeah, you know, it's definitely the hashes and uh, the
college hashes versus the NFL hashes has been a little
bit of a change up just knowing your alignment.
Speaker 9 (26:09):
And honestly, I like it more. You have a little
more landmark so you can use.
Speaker 8 (26:14):
But I say, that's the biggest thing I caught from
a right handed quarterback. Most of my life dealing is
that exception. But I've been able to really get acclimated.
Speaker 9 (26:22):
To a quick.
Speaker 2 (26:25):
Twelve last year's a big ten, which meant more long trips,
you had a really good team, you played.
Speaker 9 (26:29):
In something the National Championship Game. You think that that
step up in competition.
Speaker 3 (26:32):
Lots you helped you transition the NFL.
Speaker 8 (26:35):
Yeah, you know, I think the PAC twelve doesn't get
the credit it deserves. Honestly, of the last year in
my PAC twelve career with some of the best football,
I played some of the best players. But definitely, you know,
like the guys in the Big tent are probably bigger
up front, bigger, stronger guys. I think that definitely compares you.
The NFL is ten times that, you know, it's the
best of the best, and it's the biggest, strongest, best
(26:56):
athletes on the field.
Speaker 9 (26:57):
So I think it definitely prepares you. But I think
the FACT twelve, you know, rest in peace.
Speaker 8 (27:01):
But I think it was a great conference and honestly
some of the best football, especially that last year we
had a We had a lot of.
Speaker 9 (27:07):
Great teams at that conference. Awesome, thanks perfect, Thank you
guys so much.
Everyone wants to know the connection with Davonte.
Speaker 2 (00:03):
Was it?
Speaker 3 (00:04):
That was good?
Speaker 4 (00:04):
Yeah, I mean it's always a work in progress. You know,
we're always uh talking out there, which is a lot
of fun. A guy that's a veteran players, played a
lot of football, had a lot of success. So it's
fun just trying to communicate as much as I can
with him. Obviously, he made some great play today, you know,
but it's fun to work with guys that understand the
game and and you know.
Speaker 3 (00:21):
Still have a lot left in the tanks. So it
was good watch.
Speaker 1 (00:24):
Film on Davonte before you got here.
Speaker 4 (00:27):
I mean I've sat and watched, you know, from the
sideline a bunch of times, played against him a bunch,
so I kind of know what he's about obviously. Uh,
you know, have grown, you know, to have even more
appreciation just being in the in the room with him
and working with him. So uh, you know, he's got
a great career going and you know, just happy to
be a part of it.
Speaker 5 (00:46):
Obviously, his impact with the younger players as well as
far as making sure they get up to the same
speed and you guys can be able to click on
one accord.
Speaker 4 (00:54):
Yeah, I know, he's Uh, he's definitely, you know, a
veteran guy who's he's got a bunch of snaps under
his belt. I'm doing everything I can to try to,
you know, bring him along in our offense as fast
as possible.
Speaker 3 (01:03):
He understands the game, so that's great.
Speaker 4 (01:05):
And and we just go out there and all work
together try to be as good as we can. This
is it's early first practice, you know, out on the grass,
run around, so just trying to get our feet wet
and and you know, continue to work hard and get better.
Speaker 6 (01:17):
You throw a lot of different types of receivers over says,
I mean, I'm wondering as you learn a guy, as
you learn what his range is, where he likes the ball,
place where you like do you have anything technically like
that you guys do besides talking about it that you
kind of it's one of your go tos to sort
(01:37):
of test how someone will be.
Speaker 3 (01:39):
Yeah, no, I think, Uh, you know, I was.
Speaker 4 (01:41):
I was texting with him, you know, late last week
a little bit and just saying, hey, man, you you're
a great player because of your skill set, and I'm
going to continue to you know, work and watch and
whether that's watching live after I throw and then go
back and rewatch and make sure what I was seeing
and feeling at that moment was really Then we just
talk about it too. Right after every single set feels
like we're over there talking about, hey, this is kind
(02:01):
of how I'm thinking I'm gonna come out of this
or feel that, and and it's just constant dialogue and
and honestly, you know, those are the best relationships I've
had with receivers and the most success that I've had
is the guys that uh, you know, want to talk
to you on how, you know, what they felt what
they were doing.
Speaker 3 (02:15):
And I can also say, hey, this would look like
from my angle and go from there.
Speaker 4 (02:19):
But he's definitely he has that feeling as that understanding,
and that's that's a huge positive.
Speaker 5 (02:24):
That's something you.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
Worked about and set that previously.
Speaker 4 (02:29):
Watching him, I mean, I always had a ton of respect,
So I mean it just continues to be the same.
Speaker 3 (02:36):
You know, I always, you know, hate.
Speaker 4 (02:38):
It going against him because I knew he's gonna, you know,
put up numbers and play.
Speaker 3 (02:40):
At a high level. But just watch them go about it.
Speaker 4 (02:44):
In whatever year this is for him to be out
there and in May working the way he's working, doing
what he's doing to try to, you know, get caught
up on our offense as fast as possible. Just the
way he goes about his businesses. Uh, is commendable for sure.
Speaker 5 (02:55):
Matthew.
Speaker 2 (02:55):
It looks like NFL players are gonna be able to
play in the Black Football and twenty twenty eight Olympics.
What do you think of I know that.
Speaker 3 (03:06):
You know beyond if you're talking about coaching, would you
would you be.
Speaker 2 (03:12):
Think you'd be interested in play?
Speaker 3 (03:14):
Sure?
Speaker 4 (03:14):
I mean, I nobody's gonna want me to. Yeah, sure,
that'd be fun coach.
Speaker 3 (03:20):
During your career, learn.
Speaker 1 (03:21):
How to watch film pair.
Speaker 7 (03:23):
For games when you first got to the league.
Speaker 8 (03:25):
Did you notice a big.
Speaker 6 (03:25):
Difference when you watching the film in college and watching
the film?
Speaker 3 (03:29):
Oh? Yeah, absolutely.
Speaker 4 (03:31):
You know it's something that I think, Uh, you got
to learn as you go, you know.
Speaker 3 (03:36):
I mean it's one of those things that.
Speaker 4 (03:39):
You know. I leaned on the veteran guys that I
had around me when I was first coming around in
the NFL to to try and help me through that process.
And then I was around smart players as well and
just try to pick their brain. But everybody kind of
has to figure out the formula that works for them.
And you know, there was some some interesting times too.
The games evolved so much, you know, in seventeen years.
(04:00):
I mean it's you know, what used to be around
on defense is not around anymore, and.
Speaker 3 (04:04):
There's just so much more complexity to it.
Speaker 4 (04:07):
And then you know, playing with a guy like Calvin
early in my career, I would watch all this tape
and then you go out and watch the play the
game and nobody was running the same coverages because they
were just clouding to him the whole game or doubling
him or vising him or whatever it was.
Speaker 3 (04:18):
So you got to kind of figure it out as
you go.
Speaker 4 (04:21):
But I was always just trying to be a sponge
and just take as much as I possibly could in
you know, about the game of football. And and you know,
I think later in my career it's helped me out.
Speaker 7 (04:31):
Uh did you meet on coaches at all or is
it sounds like you way?
Speaker 9 (04:35):
Yeah?
Speaker 4 (04:35):
Some yeah, some coaches, Yeah, I mean obviously, Uh, you know,
I had some you know, experienced coordinators when I first
got into the league, the guys that really helped me out.
And then you know players as well, you know, coaches
are doing so much to try and prepare for the
next game or you know, scout ahead, do all those
kinds of things. Uh, you got to lean on the
guys that are actually playing in those games and and
how they go about it and how they get ready
and and uh was able to you know, bounce some
(04:57):
ideas off of those guys.
Speaker 3 (04:58):
Jay, can you speak.
Speaker 1 (04:59):
To to It's Ferguson.
Speaker 2 (05:00):
What are you most excited about what you've seen from him?
Speaker 4 (05:02):
So, yeah, I mean, I think it's just it's always
fun when you get young guys in here eager to
come out here to play football and prove themselves. You know,
whether it's guys on offense or defense. It's it's exciting
to have young guys around here that in our in
our front office, and I held the job last couple
of years of finding guys that are ready to go
and play. And so just excited for him for his opportunity. Obviously,
(05:24):
was a fan of his during the season last year
in college when saw him, you know, run around there
at Oregon doing some doing some really nice stuff. So
you know, excited for him. Again, it's all development at
this stage. We're just trying to figure out who we're
going to be as a team. Everybody try to figure out,
you know, how they can get better as a player,
and he's no different.
Speaker 3 (05:40):
But excited to have him a couple of homes.
Speaker 9 (05:42):
Sean talked earlier in the spring about wanting to find.
Speaker 2 (05:44):
New ways to incorporate into the team, into the offense,
and obviously connected off with him in the Montdowns bad
but just how do you use to see this fit
into this version with the Rams offense?
Speaker 4 (05:53):
Yeah, I mean I think we're building that version right now.
Right we've run whatever that was eighteen twenty five, thirty plays,
whatever it was today, So we're figuring that out. We're
building as we go to to I got a lot
of respect for too. I mean, he's a he's a
really smart guy. He's a guy that can play all
three spots for us because of his ability to understand
where he fits.
Speaker 3 (06:11):
And I think he continues to get better, you know.
Speaker 4 (06:13):
I think I've seen him grow as a football player,
see him grows a human being, all those kind of things.
As a professional, He's done a hell of a job
the last couple of years. And I think when you
turn the tape on and watch that's, you know, it
shows up so happy for his success, happy for us
to you know, get another chance to work with him
for another year, and you know, looking for big things.
Speaker 3 (06:31):
Obviously he's got the one thing everybody knows, he can
really run.
Speaker 4 (06:34):
But I think he plays away from his body really well,
catching the football, understands where he fits in in the
run game and the schemes, and and obviously Sean and
the coaching staff does a really nice job of finding
ways to utilize his you know, best traits and best attributes,
you know, on a down and down out basis.
Speaker 6 (06:49):
Krine is in the process of his first significant contract
negotiation as an NFL player. For him to be at OTAs,
I guess, does that send a signal to you as
the quarterback about just sort of what it means to
have him here regardless.
Speaker 2 (07:04):
Of any of that.
Speaker 4 (07:05):
Yeah, I mean, I you know, I'm hesitant to talk
about anybody else's business. I just know, uh, the kind
of player that Karen is and the kind of human
being and the teammate that he is. We all love
and respect him. The way he goes about his business,
the way he works, the way he plays the game.
It jumps off the screen I know to you guys
as well, just the passion that he plays with. So
not surprising that he's out here when the football is
(07:26):
you know, put down on the ground. He's he's playing.
But you know, whatever you know needs to happen for
him and for us as a team. Whatever that's you know,
that's uh, that's not my business. But I love having
him as a teammate, love and respect the way he
plays and goes about his business.
Speaker 1 (07:39):
What's what streats have you seen from Jordan Whittington from
the end of last season to now?
Speaker 4 (07:45):
Yeah, I mean I think he put in a great offseason.
I saw him, you know, working with Puka and some
of those guys. Uh, so he's come back ready to go.
You know, his physical dude can run, great, special teams player,
guy that can fit in again like to two, can
play all the spots if you need him too, which
is great. The more of those guys that you have
on your team, the better. But just you know, excited
(08:06):
to see his growth too. You know, the more opportunities
these guys get to play in NFL football, the better
they're gonna be. And and he's definitely a guy that
when he gets an opportunity, he really does everything he
can to try and take advantage of it, and you
got a bunch of guys like that on your team.
Speaker 3 (08:18):
I feel pretty good about it.
Speaker 9 (08:20):
Matter news drive. The process of kind of getting into
a deviante and getting.
Speaker 5 (08:24):
At the safe page that.
Speaker 2 (08:25):
A great player like he is, is it like a
fun challenge just a motivating inspiring and to describe.
Speaker 3 (08:30):
Yeah, definitely, I mean it's yeah, it's definitely motivating.
Speaker 4 (08:32):
You know, I wanna I want to be great for
all the guys in that locker room, but definitely you
get new players in, guys that you've got a ton
of respect for me, and I want to make sure that,
uh you know, he's getting everything he needs for me,
and likewise, I know he probably feels the same way,
so uh you know, I it's always a process getting
to figure that kind of stuff out. But uh, you know,
just the few reps we've had out here today and
and all that, I mean, he's he's a special player
(08:54):
for a reason. He's been a really good player in
this league for a long time for a reason, and
and I'm gonna do everything I can to try and
help him have great success here. And if we do that,
then that's going to be successful for our team. So
you know, I'm doing everything I can to try and
make sure that I'm as good as I can be
for everybody in that locker room.
Speaker 3 (09:08):
But he's he's definitely want them for sure.
Speaker 1 (09:10):
All Right, that's up, guys, okays, go ahead.
Speaker 3 (09:13):
Both What have you seen so far?
Speaker 1 (09:14):
Out of ten out of who? Yeah, Terrence has been good.
You know, really today was the first day that we
could do eleven on eleven. These guys got here a
couple of weeks ago. Seeing a guy that's been real
attentive in meetings, got a really good feel, you know.
Really it's routes on air and then what we saw
today which is a limited body of work, but just
been really impressed with him and really the rookie class
as a whole. Our Vets have done a good job
(09:35):
welcome these guys with open arms, but looking forward to
seeing him just continue to take it a step at
a time. Scooter Huff does a great job with our
tight ends and so so far, so good.
Speaker 5 (09:45):
What have you seen out of DeVonta? You know his
body of work and what he's been able to do.
But just is my state coming into this new offense
and new system, new team.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
Yeah, I think the first thing, Nick, I've been really
impressed with his willingness to share, his openness and his
refer rushing humility in terms of being coached, but then
being able to offer his insight. It's fun to be
able to listen to, you know. He and Matthew have
a dialogue of their accumulated experiences and getting on the
same page for how they want to be able to
do things. But he's been great, you know, he's had
a similar to what I was just saying about Terrence,
(10:15):
but he's been a great in the meetings, incredibly detail oriented.
You can see how smart he is. There's a couple
of things that are new in terms of the vernacular,
but a lot of this stuff is you know, same
as or maybe just a couple of subtle tweaks. But
his ability to be able to learn, his ability to
be able to listen and then ultimately lead, has been
a big factor.
Speaker 5 (10:35):
For the younger guys specifically, what do you feel like
you can impact them the most and as far as
where they are to get them, what you more thing
to do. As far as Devonte has his experiences for
the younger guys specific.
Speaker 1 (10:47):
Areas, I think there's nothing more powerful. Seeing is better
than said, you know the way he moves, but then
his willingness to share. You know. I think what's cool
is is these guys, the more comfortable they get, the
more comfortable they'll be to be able to ask questions.
I think Eric Yarbor, Nate and Rob do such a
great job of creating an open dialogue. We want our
meetings to be conversational, not just transferring information. But you
(11:10):
know the way that he moves, what's his rhythm and routine,
and then his willingness to share based on his experiences
and credibility that he's earned over the years.
Speaker 6 (11:17):
Sand for you to expand on within sixteen times today?
Speaker 1 (11:22):
Oh yeah, this was months ago. He's traveling with his family.
Pretty cool opportunity. You got to be able to go
travel with his mom. He was getting back today, he'll
be here. So he's done a great job of communicating
a couple months ago.
Speaker 7 (11:33):
And then Jade went sniping did and grove excents to
share them.
Speaker 6 (11:36):
Yeah, I see a difference of preparedness from obviously coming
in his rookie last year.
Speaker 1 (11:42):
And it's funny. I was just talking to him out
on the field, Jordan, what I think is great is
when guys put the work in and they just continue
to show I'm getting better and better and I'm creating value,
whether that's on teams or whether that's done a great
job within his role as a receiver. You can see
the accumulation of experiences led to a confidence ability to
be able to fill and when needed. Thought he had
a really good day today. You can see he's just
(12:04):
got a real comfort level in terms of what's being asked. Well,
it's see antenna, some of these plays, what are the
route nuances? And where do I fit within these concepts?
And so I've just been really proud of the progress,
the maturity. But you know, when you talk to people,
even going back to his time at Texas, this is
kind of who he's been. He's been all that and
more with us, and today was an excellent step in
(12:24):
the right direction for him.
Speaker 2 (12:25):
Sean still interested in trading, possibly trading for Jalen right now?
Speaker 1 (12:29):
Yeah, we would never close out those opportunities.
Speaker 2 (12:31):
What can you give us an update on what the
status is. I mean, there's that June first date that's approaching.
Speaker 1 (12:37):
You and I both know that's not a real date though,
I mean, no, here Here's what I would say. There's
not a whole lot that I have to offer. You know,
there's a lot of layers with something of that magnitude
when you're talking about the caliber of the player, all right,
the compensation that they're looking for in return, What does
that look like in terms of how they want to
handle what he's actually do. Obviously, we love Jalen, we
(12:59):
know Jalen. Intimately there would be some things that we
would need to be able to do if that was
going to be a direction that we went. We certainly
haven't closed the door on that. But there hasn't been
a whole lot of dialogue as of late, you know,
in regards to some of the communication, and so we'll
see if that changes. But these things can happen quickly.
But it's really kind of same as is what it
was a couple of weeks ago.
Speaker 2 (13:18):
Which you expected, jaramp Up.
Speaker 3 (13:20):
I mean you could I.
Speaker 1 (13:21):
Would say this if there if there really hasn't been
any meaningful, tangible dialogue as of late, but that can
always change, you know, pretty quickly, as you know you.
Speaker 2 (13:31):
Can add ye, would you want to have the secondary anyway?
Speaker 8 (13:34):
No?
Speaker 1 (13:35):
I feel good about where we're at. You know, obviously
Jalen's a unique deal, but you know, I really like
and I think we all feel this way. You know,
in terms of the guys that have played, We've gotten
a lot of guys that have played meaningful ball at
the corner position, at the safety, We've got some different
guys that can flex between safety, dime linebacker, the nickel
star spot. And so I think that the way that
guys will approach similar to Jordan's question, Greg, there's a
(13:57):
lot of young guys or maybe even guys that maybe
are new to the Rams but have accumulated a bunch
of experience that I think are only going to continue
to take steps. I think when you really look at
I thought that Kobe Durant took amazing strides last year. Obviously,
Kell Witherspoon played great. I think him being here in
the offseason is a big deal. Darius Williams, you know,
has been an excellent player for US. I don't think
(14:18):
anybody can minimize, you know, that hamstring injury that he
had to, you know, work through in the early parts
of the year. And then it was great to see
Darren Kendrick out here and Emmanuel Forbes made a play,
so you know, there's a handful guy that saw Sean
Jolly get in on a pick today. So do feel
really good about the development of that group led by
Aubrey President Chris Beak and Mike Harris plumped into that
(14:40):
started right in here the beginning a new defense. Yeah,
year last year, what did you see from him now
that he's had the windsor to more in the system.
You know, I was really impressed with the way that
he came in, his willingness to be coached, his openness
to maybe some different techniques, and that's really tough to
do in the middle of the year, especially given the
back around with the Washington and I thought he came
(15:01):
in with a great demeanor and disposition. Aubrey always does
such a good job of being able to connect with guys.
Let me connect with you first, then let me learn
how we can continue to communicate, speak the same languages,
and then I'll be able to slowly feed you kind
of what we're trying to be able to get done
in bite size increments. And you've just seen the progression
today was the first step. But you can see even
when he's responding to questions what he's showing in the
(15:23):
walkthrough is even watching him in some full speed settings today,
you see the ability, you know, in some of the
individual drills, the movements, the ability to get in and
out of breaks and things like that, and then the
length and the ball skills to be able to you know,
pick the ball off. Those are big deals. I thought
he did some really good stuff against Seattle in Week
eighteen last year, and so I'm encouraged to really use
this as an evaluation. And you guys know, we try
(15:46):
to get as many meaningful reps in these settings as possible,
the closest thing to real football without playing tackles when
we can put the pads on. So there still is
an understanding of you know, we're just trying to set foundations.
But I think he's done a really good job with
what he can control.
Speaker 2 (16:00):
Sina hits there.
Speaker 6 (16:02):
Matthew traded here.
Speaker 7 (16:03):
Cayman as a veteran knows how to prepare and watch film.
Speaker 3 (16:06):
But over the course of your career.
Speaker 6 (16:07):
How are you handled Washington with quarterbacks on your roster
and maybe trying to teach them as they make.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
The jump from college to them. Yeah, that's a really
good question. I think, you know, the first thing is
is who's the quarterback coach or the coordinator and what's
been their rhythm and routine? And David goin. I've obviously
known Dave for a while, but when you talk about
a guy that has such a specific sequential process for
the weekly rhythm for the quarterbacks while also having the
necessary flexibility to say, all right, sew, Matthew's done it,
(16:33):
this is how Jimmy's done it. Now, I'm really being
able to help Stetson continue to develop a rhythm and routine.
And I think what he does a great job of
is he's able to really, you know, reach that person
with the most experience while also accommodating to somebody that's
getting familiar with it. But I think it's being able
to break it up into segments, similar to how we
kind of implement a game plan and then make sure
(16:54):
you don't take anything for granted. I kind of mentioned
it earlier, the conversational meetings. You know, you can give
all this information. Guys kind of nod, but unless you
force him to give it back to you, and then
they're able to show it and you know, jogg through
where some of these walkthrough settings and then in the practice.
But I just think Dave does a great job and really,
you know, have such trust in him to be able
to kind of implement that with those guys. Sure, and
(17:15):
we know that you guys.
Speaker 6 (17:17):
Met with Ja Rosenhausl and Kiren and Calm had conversations
progressed past that point and follow up. What does it
mean despite the ongoing conversation that he's out here.
Speaker 1 (17:28):
Yeah, I think, first of all, Drew's been outstanding, you know,
I think the dialogue has been really healthy and you know,
the one thing about these negotiations is is trying to
be able to figure out all right, where is that
that line that fits kind of what everybody wants to
be able to get done. And we all know how
much we love Kyen. Drew's got a responsibility. I think
his communication has been excellent and Kiren has been the
(17:48):
same stud that we know, great demeanor, great willingness to
come out here to work, to be able to get better.
He's been great in terms of our communication. It means
a lot, you know, just because you don't minimiz those
things are real and those are real things that guys
have to navigate. You want to make sure that you're
asking the right questions giving them opportunities to be able
to give you that feedback and just keep the communication
(18:10):
lines open and you know, hopefully we'll see where this goes.
But I think it's been really healthy and positive progress
for sure. Sean in the in the latest Find the
Grind episode, we saw how behind the grind.
Speaker 3 (18:22):
He's how invested you were in trying to.
Speaker 1 (18:24):
Go get jar pull out pieces of that. You never
know who the hell I was talking about right there?
Speaker 3 (18:30):
Well, what did you like about him? And what have
you seen?
Speaker 1 (18:32):
Yeah? I think you know, I think when you look
at it, really all six of our picks we had
a real appreciation for. I think that's what lesson his group,
in collaboration with our coaches did a great job is
let's have a vision for how these guys fit. Let's
play the game in terms of our where do we
think the rest of the league sees these guys. Jark
Webs was a guy in addition to some other running
backs that we had real appreciation for. There was a
(18:54):
vision for how he fit. We got a chance to
have a zoom meeting with him as coaches. Just like
this demeanor. I think when you look at the production
that he had at Auburn going against the caliber of
players that he's going against, the guy that can hit
home runs, and so there was a lot to like
about him. But the other five guys, and really a
lot of these undrafted free agents felt the same way.
Speaker 2 (19:11):
Sean copy boy against black football is going to be
part of the Olympics and NFL players, Yeah, it looks
like we're gonna be able to play. What's your view
on on black football being part of the Olympics and
would you think will you encourage your players to participate?
Speaker 1 (19:26):
Yeah, I think it's great. I think, you know, that
is so far away from me in coach coaching years
or dog years, you know that, Gary, you know so
I think if guys, you know, you hear Justin Jefferson
come out and talk about man, that would be really cool.
That's awesome. Like, I think you give guys the opportunity
to say, all right, well, what's your preference on I
think whatever our guys are. You know, there's gonna be
the availability for maybe one guy on each team to
(19:48):
be able to do that. And if that's something that
players say they want to be able to do, then
I think it's a really cool experience for them. To
be able to be a part of we also acknowledging that. Man,
there's some other guys that have been doing it. I'm
not going to pretend to understand the nuances tactically and
what that game entails, but I think it's good. I
think it's great.
Speaker 2 (20:06):
Get back to the communication to Matthew and Davonte. You
consider Matthews per season with Hooper, his versus woperd.
Speaker 1 (20:13):
A history, yea, those natures and production.
Speaker 8 (20:16):
What's been the most impressive thing to you?
Speaker 5 (20:19):
And how matt been above.
Speaker 2 (20:20):
Works to a gilt these receivers.
Speaker 1 (20:21):
It gets tech chemistry so bid Well, I think you
just said it, Omar. It's his ability to communicate, you know,
his ability to communicate to connect, and then he listens
to understand. You know, you get around a lot of
people and they're just telling you what they want. But
he's got this really great way of having real clarity
on what he's looking for, but an openness, in a
humility to be able to listen and work in coordination.
(20:41):
And man, that that's where you inspire people to want
to be able to work alongside you. And he's done
that with receivers. He's he does that with the offensive lineman.
It's really whoever. And that's why I think when you're
innately thrust into a leadership position, it's why when you
talk to his teammates or coaches, everybody loves this guy.
I've said it and I've referenced it a couple of times.
I remember a few years ago dan Orlowski said he's
(21:01):
got this great way to be one of the guys,
but you also know he's the man at the same time,
and that's a real fine line to be able to balance.
But he does that authentically and organically with his personality.
But it's just he's got great communication and he and
he's put in so much work to have, you know,
such a you know, an understanding of what it looks
like to do this at a high clip. And uh,
(21:22):
you know, I just see him over there. He's getting
ready to turn fifty here pretty soon too, so uh
just kidding, and see over there, a big guy got
there to know him.
Speaker 9 (21:35):
Man, what do you like about talking to coach?
Speaker 1 (21:37):
You know what I like, Greg is I like the
opportunity to be able to have people that are in
similar platforms where you're always trying to learn and share
and even though there might be some different things specifically
or tactically. You know, there's so many, so much crossover
and leadership in the platform that we're blessed to be
able to have. I got connected with JJ a little
bit before he took the job, and had always respected
(21:57):
him from Afar. But I mean, you talk about a
welltha out guy, you know, great willingness to be able
to look inwardly at all? Right, where are those areas
of improvement understanding how you bring people together? And so
really enjoyed him coming out, and I think the guys
did today too. Okay, thanks guys, how's it going?
Speaker 9 (22:14):
What's up? Are you guys? Appreciated what they experience.
Speaker 8 (22:19):
Has been like the last couple of weeks since you've
been here.
Speaker 9 (22:22):
Yeah, the experience has been great.
Speaker 8 (22:23):
You know, are you land in a spot like this
with these people, the teammates, the staff, everybody has just
been amazing. So it's been a great experience. And then
everyone's poured into me. So it's been an amazing experience.
Speaker 1 (22:34):
What you thought it would be or is it different?
Speaker 9 (22:36):
That's better than what I thought.
Speaker 8 (22:37):
You know, I got a lot of people as soon
as I got drafted here, so this is a great
spot to be and it's exceeded my expectations.
Speaker 9 (22:44):
So I think it's pretty hard to do with a
high standard that was already set for it.
Speaker 5 (22:48):
Who's poured into you the most, the players that are
poured into you the most of dinner.
Speaker 8 (22:51):
Yeah, Higgs is someone who jumps right off the bat.
I say all the tight ends, though, have really leaned
in and really helped me out with whether it's the playbook,
a little subtle things that you know makes Higgs great,
and being a veteran guy like that, knowing and playing
a lot of ball, and just being willing to pour
into a young guy like meats.
Speaker 9 (23:09):
So I'd say Higgs been especially I'm competent.
Speaker 7 (23:12):
Obviously, they don't want to put too much on you
too early, But can you tell us about one thing
that you've really taken it upon yourself to try to
master while you're here out here, something that maybe starts
your onboarding process in the way that you should developed me.
Speaker 8 (23:29):
Yeah, I think the biggest thing is just knowing the offense,
getting that under your belt, you know what to do,
knowing that they can trust me to be where I
need to be and get familiar with the offense. I
think that's what every rookie does, and so just being
able to come in and learn the playbook fast, I
think that's been something I've been trying.
Speaker 9 (23:44):
To lean into.
Speaker 5 (23:45):
What are the conversations with Poach Wickbag since you've gotten
here and being able to get acclimated to that system
and understanding what his expert sexuals are of you is
Weathers're all.
Speaker 9 (23:54):
Yeah, No, it's been amazing with Coach Vay. He's really
poured into me and leaning me.
Speaker 8 (23:57):
Out there with just a little subtle things I can
change and get better at, and just where he has
a lot of love for me and I appreciate that.
And so just being able to talk with him and
being able to play for someone like him is a
dream come true. So you know, it's been it's been
an amazing experience so far.
Speaker 1 (24:13):
And you talked about, you know, you talked about watching
some film of this offense from year back and forth.
Speaker 9 (24:18):
Yeah, now that you're here and hit it is, then
I think that's kind of surprised you.
Speaker 1 (24:22):
And learning about this system.
Speaker 9 (24:24):
I wouldn't say so.
Speaker 8 (24:25):
We watched a lot of the Rams offense that Oregon took,
took some plays and some ideas from coach McVay in
this offense, so you know, being able to watch it
beforehand and then also get into it.
Speaker 9 (24:36):
Obviously it's very complex. It's a great.
Speaker 8 (24:38):
Offense to be in. So I think that's probably about it.
But I've seen a little bit of it and then uh,
high expectations, and like I said, it's exceeded that. So
it's been amazing.
Speaker 6 (24:47):
We see the biggest adjustment where you will be during
the stays.
Speaker 9 (24:51):
Yeah, I think just you know, learning the plays fast.
Speaker 8 (24:54):
You know, you have a quick turnaround from going from
college to the whatever special game you played in the
combine then coming out here. So it's just a quick
turnaround learning the offense and then be able to get
comfortable and playing the football that you used to playing.
Speaker 9 (25:07):
I think that's the biggest thing.
Speaker 1 (25:09):
There's more similarities between the RAMS offense and ordinances that
helped you kind of get onboarded and you know, feel
comfortable coming in.
Speaker 9 (25:16):
Yeah.
Speaker 8 (25:16):
I think just the way use a lot of motions
to get people open, scheme things open, and I think
a lot of things are similar with the offensive style
with the motioning.
Speaker 9 (25:26):
But I'll just say kind of the concepts some of them.
I have a lot of carryover.
Speaker 8 (25:30):
We did a great job at Oregon of prepping these
guys to learn a lot of offenses. You know, I
played for a couple ocs, and you know, we had
a lot of concepts in there for a college offense,
and so being able to carry that over to here
has been really big for me.
Speaker 6 (25:42):
This offense morally manipulate the space.
Speaker 7 (25:45):
But obviously when you're in coming from college, everything is
space on the field, hash parks, everything's different, the balls
coming out, like the right handed quarterback.
Speaker 6 (25:52):
Now we're sutill. How have you caught yourself having to
retrain yourself in different ways understanding within this offense you're
going to be tasked to maximize this news space.
Speaker 8 (26:02):
Yeah, you know, it's definitely the hashes and uh, the
college hashes versus the NFL hashes has been a little
bit of a change up just knowing your alignment.
Speaker 9 (26:09):
And honestly, I like it more. You have a little
more landmark so you can use.
Speaker 8 (26:14):
But I say, that's the biggest thing I caught from
a right handed quarterback. Most of my life dealing is
that exception. But I've been able to really get acclimated.
Speaker 9 (26:22):
To a quick.
Speaker 2 (26:25):
Twelve last year's a big ten, which meant more long trips,
you had a really good team, you played.
Speaker 9 (26:29):
In something the National Championship Game. You think that that
step up in competition.
Speaker 3 (26:32):
Lots you helped you transition the NFL.
Speaker 8 (26:35):
Yeah, you know, I think the PAC twelve doesn't get
the credit it deserves. Honestly, of the last year in
my PAC twelve career with some of the best football,
I played some of the best players. But definitely, you know,
like the guys in the Big tent are probably bigger
up front, bigger, stronger guys. I think that definitely compares you.
The NFL is ten times that, you know, it's the
best of the best, and it's the biggest, strongest, best
(26:56):
athletes on the field.
Speaker 9 (26:57):
So I think it definitely prepares you. But I think
the FACT twelve, you know, rest in peace.
Speaker 8 (27:01):
But I think it was a great conference and honestly
some of the best football, especially that last year we
had a We had a lot of.
Speaker 9 (27:07):
Great teams at that conference. Awesome, thanks perfect, Thank you
guys so much.
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