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A 16-game starter in 2018, Blythe is looking to secure a
long-term contract with a strong 2019 season.
By
Photo by Jorge Lemus/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The Rams added Blythe in 2017 after he was waived by
the Indianapolis Colts. That year, he primarily served as a backup
starting only one game in Week 17 when the Rams rested their starters against
the San Francisco 49ers in advance of the playoffs. Last season was a different
story as Blythe started in Week 1 replacing suspended RG Jamon Brown. Blythe’s
performance was spectacular. He subsequently never relinquished the job and
remained a starter for all 16 regular season games and three more in the
playoffs.
Roster Battle
There really won’t be any battle for Blythe as it pertains to
the roster. The starting five offensive line is more or less entrenched as
LT Andrew Whitworth, LG Joseph Noteboom, C Brian Allen,
RG Austin Blythe, and RT Rob Havenstein. The two offensive lineman
who could get shuffled by way of performance are the two newcomers in Noteboom
and Allen. The only potential for any shuffling from Blythe is if an unforeseen
circumstance arises (injury?), Blythe could very well be asked to slide to
center with another backup lineman stepping in his vacated right guard spot. In
the event of a situation like that, 2019 NFL Draft third-round
pick Bobby Evans (roster preview) or swing tackle Jamil
Demby (roster preview) could be the first to be called upon.
Expectations
For a guy entering his fourth NFL season and second season as a
starter, my expectations are rather high. Blythe proved he belonged in the league last year as he
was one of the better rated guards in the league per PFF. With more
familiarity and development, Blythe could continue to prove his worth as a
starting quality offensive lineman.
Chances of making the
final roster (10/10)
Blythe is not only a roster lock at this point, he’s a lock to
start as many games as he’s capable of starting.
