He resolved that he would learn as much as he could and work as hard as possible as a rookie buried on the depth chart at guard. Kouadnjio got through that rookie season, but dressed for just three games, which proved challenging psychologically as well.

Now, in his second offseason as a pro, Kouandjio believes he has grown up quite a bit, on and off the field, and he hopes 2016 represents a breakout year for him.

“It’s a great thing being in Year 2 and not have your head spinning all the time. You still have to learn stuff, but it’s good at least to have a firm foundation and good base going into it,” Kouandjio said last Wednesday. “The difference is major. I can spend more time reading the defense and seeing what’s going on. These guys are great on defense, they’re fast and they give a good look, so it’s great going against that every day.”

AD

AD

Kouandjio spoke after spending the bulk of a practice working as the starting left guard, although he hasn’t actually worked his way up the depth chart at that position. Not yet anyway.

For now, left guard is a muddled picture. Shawn Lauvao opened last season as the starter before missing the final 13 games because of ankle surgery. His rehabilitation remains ongoing, but coaches expect him to return soon and challenge to reclaim his job. Meanwhile, third-year pro Spencer Long, who took over for Lauvao last season, has received first-team snaps at left guard as well. But he’s also spending the offseason learning to play center, and that has created an opportunity for Kouandjio to work with the starters some. Having gotten a taste, Kouandjio now wants to play well enough to make this a three-man competition this training camp.

“I have a few things I keep in my mind, but mostly, I just try to play as good as I can day in and day out,” Kouandjio said. “I want to [start] moreso for myself than to prove anything to anyone. It’s not to prove to anyone other than myself. … Football’s fun when you’re doing well. When you’re not doing well, it’s not very fun, and you’ve got to be out here a lot of days. In order for it to be fun, I have to do well.”

AD

AD

Because of his improved knowledge and comfort, Kouandjio has noticed the fun starting to return to football. And after deciding that he needs to spend less time in his room and instead “broaden my horizons,” and enjoy the area more, off-field life has improved as well.

“Now I’m getting out more, getting more comfortable and allowing myself to get more comfortable,” Kouandjio said. “So, Year 2 is going better all around so far.”

More from The Post: