IRVINE, Calif._It was only one pass, one late-practice throw.
And it seemed, for an instant, to momentarily freeze the Los Angeles Rams' practice on Tuesday at UC Irvine.
Rookie quarterback Jared Goff had dropped back, stepped up to avoid the rush and zipped a spiral deep through the defense and into the hands of receiver Nelson Spruce.
It marked the first time the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft truly showed the arm and release that caused the Rams' brain trust to trade numerous draft picks for the opportunity to select the former California standout.
Goff had displayed flashes during rookie camp workouts after the draft and during off-season and organized team activities in Oxnard.
But Tuesday was the first time that the Rams were in pads.
So when Goff stepped up and delivered, the crowd in the nearby bleachers roared. And though the play came with the second-team offense operating against the second-team defense, players and coaches appeared to sense the moment.
"He made some really good throws," Coach Jeff Fisher said of Goff, adding, "We added a little bit of noise so they had to focus in the huddle and I thought he took charge of it.
"He's progressing well."
Goff is attempting to supplant Case Keenum at the top of the depth chart. He will need to make plays like he did Tuesday against the first-team defense and against exhibition opponents to convince Fisher that he is capable of starting the Sept. 12 season opener against the San Francisco 49ers.
Whether it happens at the outset or during the season remains to be seen, but it is only a matter of time before Goff ascends to become the starter.
Keenum, for his part, has looked comfortable in the role for now.
On Tuesday, he made several impressive plays, including a touchdown pass in a tight window to Brian Quick and a touchdown pass to Tavon Austin in the left corner of the end zone.
"I'm doing my job," Keenum said. "When I'm at quarterback, I'm running the show. ... It's my huddle, my squad, my offense and I'm taking ownership of it."
