There aren’t many teams in the NFL as deep as the Los Angeles Rams. They have starting-caliber players pushed down on the depth chart as backups and reserves, which makes it difficult for overlooked players to crack the 53-man roster.
Offensive lineman Aaron Neary is a player who could have a hard time making the Rams, given the talent they have up front. He’s been a backup his entire career, but he appreciates the way Los Angeles treats its reserves compared to other teams he’s played for.
“I’ve been on other teams where you notice you’re in the back seat,” said Neary, via the Spokesman-Review. “But here you’re loved. You’re treated like a starter. It’s awesome.”
Neary previously spent time with the Broncos, Eagles and Browns, bouncing around from practice squad to practice squad. The Rams actually waived him last September, at which point he was picked up by Cleveland.
When the Browns released him a week later, the Rams signed him to their practice squad on Sept. 11. He has an uphill climb to the 53-man roster, having to prove he can back up Brian Allen at center and possibly even display the versatility to play guard, too.
He would love to be a starter someday, but for now, he’s just working on getting better despite not getting reps with the first-team offense.
“You’re always aiming to get to the next best thing. Even if you’re getting some playing time, you’re aiming to be a better player, and eventually a starter one day,” Neary said.
