Veteran Linebacker Eric Kendricks Joins Rams on Practice Squad
Thirty-four-year-old linebacker Eric Kendricks signed with the Rams as a practice squad addition on Tuesday. The veteran had spent time with the 49ers last season and now joins the defending NFC West champions for his 12th NFL season.
Eric Kendricks brings extensive postseason experience to Los Angeles after a career spanning 12 NFL seasons. The linebacker has accumulated over 158 combined regular season and playoff appearances, with his most recent contribution coming during San Francisco's playoff run where he started both games and recorded 19 tackles. His tenure in the league has primarily centered around the Vikings organization, with recent stops at San Diego and Dallas under head coach Mike Zimmer.
The Rams' defensive unit currently ranks among the league's better units in yards allowed, though adding veteran depth at linebacker may help solidify their second-level coverage. Kendricks joins a Los Angeles defense that has undergone significant offseason investment, particularly along the front seven and in the secondary, positioning him as a potential contributor in either practice squad elevation or active roster consideration as the season progresses.
The signing illustrates how NFL teams continue seeking veteran depth throughout the season to address injuries and performance needs. For players like Kendricks, practice squad opportunities extend professional careers while providing teams cost-effective insurance at critical positions. This move could affect the competitive landscape within the NFC West, potentially influencing divisional standings if the Rams activate him for meaningful defensive contributions during the latter half of the season.