Stan Kroenke and Kevin Demoff’s decision to replace its defensive-minded head coach Jeff Fisher with a then-30-year-old offensive-minded Sean McVay was a sign of a complete change in identity.
But with full permission from the front office to remodel the Fisher-era Rams, McVay decided to keep a couple of things in order.
Among those was McVay’s decision to retain John Fassel as the special teams coordinator – and the move to keep the coach they call “Bones” looks better by the day.
Just ask Cleveland Browns special teams coordinator Mike Priefer, who told members of the media that he began preparing for Rams’ special teams unit back in the spring.
The Browns are also very aware of the danger that electrifying return man JoJo Natson brings to the table for John Fassel and the Rams.
Respect level = 1000.
Fassel’s special teams unit will see a familiar face on the other side of the ball. The Browns currently employ ex-Ram receiver Khadarel Hodge as a gunner on special teams. Priefer is very high on Hodge, who was cut by the Rams and subsequently claimed by the Browns via waivers.
“I can’t believe the Rams let [Hodge] go. He is so talented,” Priefer said. “I am very glad that we have him. For a young guy, he has some leadership abilities and some leadership qualities. He plays very, very hard and he is very intelligent. He understands his role.”
