The Los Angeles Rams have signed former Saskatchewan Roughriders linebacker Derrick Moncrief to their 16-man practice squad.
He was waived by LA on Friday and passed through unclaimed, which allowed the Rams to keep him. Moncrief had not been with LA long, signing on August 25 to add depth to the linebacking core.
Moncrief originally signed with the Las Vegas Raiders in January, however, general manager Mike Mayock waived him in May after adding reinforcements at linebacker in free agency and during the 2020 NFL draft. Even though the Raiders let Moncrief go free, there were other NFL teams interested in his services.
He worked out for the Miami Dolphins, Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions, Arizona Cardinals, New York Jets, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and San Francisco 49ers during his NFL team tour in December. NFL franchises had been in touch with Moncrief and his representatives expressing the potential for workouts when COVID-19 guidelines allowed before he was signed by the Rams.
The 27-year-old played three seasons for the Riders. In 2019, Moncrief suited up in 17 games making 69 tackles, four on special teams, four sacks, three interceptions and one forced fumble. He was named a CFL all-star for his outstanding play at the strong-side linebacker position.
By playing the “SAM” spot in the Canadian game, Moncrief displayed his dynamic abilities as a defender. He can be stout against the run, blitz off the edge, drop back in zone versus the pass and even lock on offensive players in man coverage. In the new era of NFL football with footballs being thrown all over, Moncrief fits the style of player who can thrive on defence.
After two seasons at Oklahoma State University, Moncrief went overlooked by the NFL in 2017, but he’s earned his way to the first chance at making an impact south of the border. Moncrief has a shot to compete and show he deserves an active roster spot.
