Los Angeles Rams rookie offensive lineman Willie Lampkin may have gone undrafted, but he’s quickly making a name for himself in the NFL. The 5’11” and 290-pound player caught the attention of Pro Football Focus (PFF), a leading analytics and scouting website, and was recently named as the “UDFA to watch”. This is a huge achievement for the undrafted player, and it’s not going unnoticed.
Lampkin’s journey to the Rams began when he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the team after impressing the coaching staff during their rookie minicamp. Despite not being selected in the NFL Draft, Lampkin remained determined to make a name for himself and earn a spot on an NFL team. And he’s doing just that with his hard work and dedication.
What makes Lampkin stand out among other undrafted players is his impressive run-blocking skills. According to PFF, Lampkin has the “best run-block tape” among all undrafted players in the 2021 Draft class. This is a remarkable feat and a testament to his strength and technique as an offensive lineman.
Lampkin’s strength and size are definitely impressive, but it’s his football IQ and technique that truly make him stand out. In an interview with Heavy Sports, Lampkin’s former coach at Colorado State, Dave Johnson, praised the rookie’s football knowledge and his ability to read defenses.
“He has a very high football IQ,” Johnson said. “He understands how to make adjustments and read defenses. He’s a really smart player and that’s something that the Rams were looking for.”
His former college teammate, wide receiver Warren Jackson, also had high praise for Lampkin’s work ethic and drive to succeed.
“Willie is a hard worker and he always strives to be the best,” Jackson said. “He never takes a play off and he’s always pushing himself to get better. That’s the kind of player he is.”
Lampkin’s drive and determination have paid off, as he has quickly become a standout player during the Rams’ training camp. His impressive performance has caught the attention of the coaching staff and his teammates, and he’s making a strong case for himself to earn a spot on the final roster.
His size may have raised some eyebrows, but Lampkin has proven that he’s not one to be underestimated. He’s shown that he can compete with players who are taller and heavier than him, and his technique and football IQ have helped him stand out among his fellow offensive linemen.
With his impressive run-blocking skills and his determination to succeed, Lampkin is proving to be a valuable asset to the Los Angeles Rams. And his positive attitude and work ethic have not gone unnoticed by his teammates and coaches.
In an interview with Rams Wire, offensive line coach Kevin Carberry praised Lampkin’s attitude and work ethic, saying, “He’s a guy that you love having in your room. He’s always got a smile on his face and he’s willing to work and learn. He’s a joy to have on the team.”
Lampkin’s journey to the NFL may not have been the traditional one, but he’s proving that hard work and determination can lead to success. And with the Rams’ offense in need of a strong and reliable offensive line, Lampkin has the potential to make a significant impact on the team.
As he continues to impress during training camp, Lampkin is definitely a player to watch for the Los Angeles Rams. His size, strength, and football intelligence make him a formidable force on the field, and it won’t be long before he becomes a household name in the NFL.
So, Rams fans, keep an eye on Willie Lampkin. He may have been an undrafted rookie, but he’s quickly becoming a rising star and a player to watch for in the upcoming NFL season. And who knows, he could be the next undrafted player to make a big impact in the league, just like current Rams standout Malcolm Brown.
