St. Louis Rams Closing Evaluations: What Grades Do the Defensive Linemen Receive?

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Ethan Westbrooks: Westbrooks certainly had moments during 2014 where he flashed the potential that made him the star of the Rams’ preseason. There were points during the early part of the season where Westbrooks looked like the Rams’ best pass rusher. His fortunes seemed to change in Week 6, however, when he threw a stupid punch that resulted in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty and a hand injury for Westbrooks.

Due to what was most likely a combination of Westbrooks’ injury, punishment for his poor decision, a realization on the part of the staff that they didn’t need to dress so many defensive linemen for games, and later the return of defensive end Chris Long, Westbrooks dressed for only two of the Rams’ final 11 games.

The undrafted rookie ended the season with five tackles, and he also had three quarterback hurries and a QB hit according to Pro Football Focus. While he showed some nice skills and has the versatility to play both end and tackle, Westbrooks’ poor decision against San Francisco may have provided a clue as to why he wasn’t drafted. He’ll likely have to compete for a job once again during training camp next year.

GRADE: C-

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