Shaun Dolac
Getty
Los Angeles Rams LB Shaun Dolac
The Los Angeles Rams got their fourth win of the season, beating the Lamar Jackson-less Baltimore Ravens, 17-3.
While in a low-scoring game, the Rams‘ defense did its part in the victory. One key player for Los Angeles was linebacker Shaun Dolac, who got his first real snaps on defense for the team.
In the victory against the Ravens, Dolac logged 7 tackles, the third most on the team and tied for fifth most in the game. The UDFA made his debut on Pro Football Focus’s rookie team of the week after his performance in Week 6.
“It took until Week 6, but we finally have a Rookie of the Week list that doesn’t feature Jihaad Campbell. This game against the Ravens was actually Dolac’s first seeing any defensive snaps, as he was exclusively a special teamer up until this point — but what a debut it was. The undrafted rookie out of [the University of] Buffalo was at his best stopping the run, recording two stops and an 81.4 grade in that field,” Wyman wrote.
Sean McVay On Rookie Linebacker
Sean McVay, Los Angeles Rams
GettyLos Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay
In the first five games of the season, Shaun Dolac recorded 10 tackles, the majority being on special teams. The linebacker almost tied his total tackle number in just Week 6 alone.
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay praised the rookie on his podcast for his performance against the Ravens.
“It does give you confidence, but that was what I expected,” McVay said, via the Rams. “He’s one of those guys… that the moments just not too big for him. You give them a greater role, they own it, they show why they’re capable, they’ve got the capacity and then the ability to go execute.”
“He’s made his presence felt on teams. He’s earned a right as a guy coming in as an undrafted free agent, to make the football team. Not surprised, but happy for sure.”
What’s Next For The Defense
Nate Landman, Los Angeles Rams
GettyNate Landman #53 of the Los Angeles Rams
Shaun Dolac filled in his the injured Omar Speights, who is dealing with an ankle injury. If the UDFA continues to impress while Speights is out, then Dolac can find himself being used more often on defense.
Speights was listed as doubtful to play in the matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. It appears that Speights can return in Week 7 if he heals properly. The linebacker has registered 24 tackles in five appearances this season.
If Dolac is given another opportunity to get quality snaps on defense, he can cement himself as a full-time starter.
With his coach having confidence in the linebacker being the next man up, Shaun Dolac could at least receive some more snaps on defense instead of being a special teamer.