Brian Randolph is a steal for the Los Angeles Rams and could outplay defensive backs already on the roster

It is hard to understand why free safety Brian Randolph wasn’t invited to the NFL Combine. The 6’0″ 200 lb defensive back ran a 4.4 in the forty which was second fastest of the safeties who were invited. Furthermore he did 37 reps of 225 lbs at his pro day which is nine more then any defensive back in the draft this year. The former Vol was a five year starter and a standout defender in the SEC in 2015. Randolph may not start right away but he will offer tremendous value to the Los Angeles Rams in 2016.

Randolph started all 13 games in 2015 at Tennessee as a free safety. In his final year he registered 70 tackles which was second on the Vols defense. He finished out the year with two interceptions, five passes defended and a forced fumble. The 23 year-old also became one of the most durable players in in school history when he played in 53 consecutive games.

Randolph finished his college career with a total of 310 tackles, 13 pass breakups, eight interceptions and four forced fumbles. His play on film resembles that of an early round pick.

The Rams acted quickly to sign the free safety just minutes after the 2016 draft was over. The rookie had interest from many teams but he chose Los Angeles because of the opportunities left by the departure of Rodney McLeod. After signing with the franchise Randolph exclaimed:

“They told me they really wanted me to come in and compete for a spot. That showed me they really wanted me. … They were interested in me since Day 1. They were loyal to me, so I’m going to be loyal to them.” (www.knoxnews.com)

Brian Randolph is a steal for the Los Angeles Rams and could outplay defensive backs already on the roster. The team is in a precarious situation in the secondary and the more help they can find the better. It will be interesting to see Randolph’s progression on the upcoming series “Hard Knocks.” Watching him in the preseason should also be a real treat.