The New England Patriots will see a familiar face on the opposite side on Thursday. The Los Angeles Rams claimed edge rusher Derek Rivers off waivers from the Patriots last month.
The Youngstown State product played in six games for the Patriots in 2018, recording a sack and two tackles. Injuries have bogged down his career, and he is now looking for a fresh start with the Rams.
Rivers made his Los Angeles debut on Sunday, playing of five snaps on defense and 16 snaps on special-teams. In acquiring Rivers off waivers, Rams head coach Sean McVay talked about what he saw in the defensive end. In particular, McVay mentioned his skill set as well as his ability to communicate.
“(I) liked his skill set, like some of the physical tools that he has, and he has a great look in his eye,” McVay said in a video conference. “I really like his demeanor and his disposition. Great communicator. You can see he’s come from a place that does things the right way. He’s been coached well, just how seamless he was able to jump in on special teams and understand the things that we’re looking for.”
It will be interesting to see if Rivers can make any impact on Thursday, as he looks to continue impressing the Rams organization.
