What's Happening?
Shaun Dolac, a former University at Buffalo linebacker, has successfully made the Los Angeles Rams' 53-man roster after going undrafted in April. Despite leading college football with 168 tackles and 177 interception return yards, Dolac was not picked by the Buffalo Bills or any other NFL team during the draft. The Bills, who hosted Dolac at their local pro day, opted not to sign him as an undrafted free agent. Instead, Dolac joined the Rams, where he impressed during preseason games, recording seven tackles in each of the first two matches. His absence from the preseason finale was a strong indicator of his secured spot on the roster. Rams head coach Sean McVay and linebackers coach Greg Williams have praised Dolac for his understanding of the defensive playbook and his performance on the field.
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Why It's Important?
Dolac's journey from an undrafted player to securing a spot on an NFL roster highlights the potential for overlooked talent to succeed in professional sports. His signing with the Rams, rather than his hometown team, the Buffalo Bills, raises questions about talent evaluation and decision-making processes within NFL teams. For the Rams, Dolac's addition strengthens their linebacker corps, potentially impacting their defensive strategies positively. For the Bills, missing out on a local talent like Dolac could be seen as a missed opportunity, especially given their current thin linebacker lineup. This situation underscores the importance of thorough scouting and evaluation in the NFL, where undrafted players can sometimes outperform expectations.
What's Next?
As Dolac integrates into the Rams' lineup, his performance in the regular season will be closely watched. His ability to adapt to the NFL's pace and maintain his college-level performance could solidify his position and potentially lead to a more significant role within the team. For the Bills, this development might prompt a reassessment of their scouting and recruitment strategies, especially concerning local talent. The Rams' decision to include Dolac could also influence other teams to take a closer look at undrafted players, potentially altering future draft and recruitment strategies across the league.
