Let’s go camping! Training camp opened with optimism and enthusiasm for the upcoming season but got a s light scare just a few days into camp. WR Cooper Kupp tweaked a hamstring and is out for a few weeks. Other than that, camp has been pretty successful for Los Angeles as they prepare for their first preseason game on August 12. This report takes a look at the current Fantasy positions.

QUARTERBACK: QB Matthew Stafford has been having a good camp and is doing a great job developing chemistry with his offensive unit and mentoring the young quarterbacks on the roster. Rookie QB Stetson Bennett and QB Brett Rypien have both had good performances according to HC Sean McVay. If Matthew and his teammates can stay healthy, I think this offense will be successful. Stafford is getting no respect and in my recent 10-team draft, he was not even drafted! I drafted Herbert and Tua and did not take a third quarterback. One Owner drafted Geno Smith, Brock Purdy, and Mac Jones after taking Josh Allen in the first round, which is crazy. I think Stafford has a solid year and will be a steal in Fantasy Drafts.

RUNNING BACK: RB Cam Akers put on some muscle in the off-season and reported to camp in great shape. Cam has mentioned that he not only worked on his body but also his mindset for the upcoming season. I think he will be very productive. Second year RB Kyren Williams has been the number two back behind Cam with rookie RB Zach Evans learning the offense. RB Sony Michel announced his retirement less than a week into camp so the Rams signed RB Royce Freeman. If Cam can continue the success that he had at the end of last season, he could be the steal of Fantasy drafts.

WIDE RECEIVER: WR Cooper Kupp tweaked his hamstring early in camp and will rest and rehab to make sure he is 100% healthy when the season starts. The Rams need Kupp in the lineup to fulfill their potential on offense. WR Van Jefferson was reportedly healthy entering camp but has had several "rest" days which is concerning considering the health issues he dealt with last season. In Van’s absence, WR Demarcus Robinson has been impressing and could push for a starting role. At the very least, I think Robinson has secured a spot on the final roster. Rookie WR Puka Nakua has taken advantage of his increased opportunities with Kupp on the sideline. WR Tutu Atwell has had a few moments and is currently listed as the third receiver on the initial depth chart. WR Ben Skowronek has been dealing with minor health issues but nothing serious. Kupp should be a full go week one and be one of the top receivers in the league. Everyone else after Cooper is risky for Fantasy.

TIGHT END: TE Tyler Higbee is locked in as the starter and has had a nice camp. He could be the second most productive pass catcher after Kupp. TE Brycen Hopkins and TE Hunger Long are competing for the backup spot with Long dealing with health issues. Rookie TE Davis Allen does not have any Fantasy value at this point but has potential down the road. Consider Higbee and low end TE1.

KICKER: UFA PK Tanner Brown is the only kicker on the roster so right now the job is his. If Brown is the kicker for Los Angeles, he should be available at the end of most drafts and could be a bargain if the offense stays healthy and productive.

DEFENSE: This unit signed CB Ahkello Witherspoon and welcomed back DB John Johnson to give DC Raheem Morris some veterans for the backfield. CB Cobie Durant has been having a strong camp and looks poised to make a name for himself in his second season. All-World DL Aaron Donald is determined to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 and he has extra incentive after being left out of the top ten in the NFL’s top 100 list. LB Ernest Jones has stepped up to be one of the leaders on defense and will wear the green dot as the defensive signal caller during games. The young defensive edge rushers had been slow to develop and if they don’t pick it up, this unit could struggle to pressure opposing quarterbacks. Donald and Jones are solid IDPs with Cobie Durant a possible breakout star. If you have to play a defensive back in your league, Durant could be a very nice sleeper.

The Rams dodged a bullet with the Kupp injury and hopefully there are no more injuries for this team. The Rams host the Chargers on Saturday the 12^th for the first preseason game of the year. Unlike previous years, McVay will have to play more of his guys to properly evaluate the young talent, especially along the offensive line. I had my first Fantasy Draft this past Saturday the 5^th and I am ready for my other upcoming Drafts. This is one of my favorite times of the year and I wish all of you luck in your Drafts. Love and blessings to my family. Miss you Pops and Scratch! Aloha!

End.