Los Angeles Rams: Can Isaiah Battle Win A Starting Spot?

In July of 2015, the then-St. Louis Rams selected Isaiah Battle out of Clemson with a fifth-round Supplemental Draft pick. In doing so, Battle became a member of the Rams and the team had to forfeit a fifth-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Battle essentially red shirted in 2015, not officially appearing in any games according to both the Rams official website and the NFL. He enters 2016 with a fresh start, but a leg up on fellow “first year” players due to his familiarity in the Rams’ offensive system.

Battle was a left tackle in college, showing tremendous length and athleticism while starting 15 games for the Tigers. His athletic ability and aggressive style make him a very nice fit for a team that is going to look to run frequently like the Rams will with Todd Gurley.

He ran into some problems with speed and power off the edge. Battle did not display a great anchor in college – often leaning into opponents and trying to use his massive frame. He has the length to play well, but often kept his arms bent and took away his own length.

There were also some concerns around NFL circles that Battle had some issues with character both on and off the field. Via Lance Zierlein of NFL.com, there was also some reports that Battle had a work ethic problem – an issue that likely led to him being in the fifth round of the Supplemental Draft.

Battle spent much of 2015 on the Rams practice squad before getting elevated after a myriad of injuries along the offensive line in 2015. Now Los Angeles is looking for a team with a new attitude and a winning style – the question is, does Battle fit into the Rams plans along the offensive line in 2016.

If the Rams’ offseason workouts were any indication, Battle is at least in the plans. According to Rams online reporter Myles Simmons, Battle received a good number of reps during OTA’s. Simmons also indicated that Battle appeared to be more polished in his approach after going through a full season and offseason with the Rams.

Nothing will be handed over to Battle, however. Battle could realistically play either tackle position in the NFL thanks to his size and athleticism. He is best fit to play left tackle, but former number three overall pick Greg Robinson resides there. On the right side, Battle would have to beat fellow 2015 rookie Rob Havenstein out for a starting role. That is unlikely, as Havenstein was impressive in 2015 and appears to have his role set with the Los Angeles Rams.

What Robinson can do is fill the much-needed swing-tackle role. This third tackle has become a pivotal player throughout the NFL to serve as depth in case of injury, and in short-yardage situations. This swing-tackle role is the most likely destination for Battle, but a solid camp could see him challenge Robinson for his spot – a spot that Robinson had an up and down year in during 2015.

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Battle is, in essence, a rookie for the Rams in 2016. He still has a long way to go before he reaches his ideal potential. The fact that he is challenging during training camp is a big positive for the Rams, and the city of Los Angeles. He might not be ready for Hollywood yet, but he is not far off from becoming the next big tackle in LA.

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