Bryce

Hager

Hager’s season is over. The fifth-year LB started four games for the Rams this season and ranked as PFF’s No. 38 overall LB among 115 qualified players.

Hager hasn’t played over 40% of the defense’s snaps in a game this season. He played on strictly special teams in Week 6. Regardless, Hager’s absence would be bad news for the Rams’ front-seven depth ahead of their Week 7 matchup against the Falcons.

Hager played just 53 defensive snaps last season, but he was a stalwart on special teams. That should continue to be his role moving forward.

The Rams traded Zac Stacy to move up for Hager, who projects to back up inside and at the WILL spot under Gregg Williams. Ifedi (6'3/275) will compete at strong-side end and defensive tackle.

The Rams flipped disgruntled RB Zac Stacy to the Jets for the pick. Hager (6'1/234) made 32 starts as the Bears’ middle linebacker, piling up 24 TFLs, seven sacks and five forced fumbles. He made second-team All-Big 12 in each of his final three seasons. Hager showed pro-quality athleticism at the Combine, running 4.6-flat with a 35-inch vertical and 9-foot-9 broad jump, also pumping 26 reps on the bench. Although he is not built ideally for inside linebacker, Hager flashes impressive first-step burst and plus pass-coverage skills. He may end up on the weak side in the pros.