Rookie Linebackers Earn Rams' Trust, Earn "Green Dot" Defensive Roles

As of August 23rd, 2025, two rookie linebackers for the Los Angeles Rams have made a strong impression in the preseason, earning the coveted "green dot" role to call plays and lead the defense.

In the Rams' Week 1 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, fifth-round pick Chris Paul Jr. was given the responsibility of relaying the defensive calls and ensuring his teammates were properly aligned. The following week, undrafted free agent Shaun Dolac took on this critical role in the win over the Los Angeles Chargers.

Both players have expressed their appreciation for the trust the coaching staff has placed in them. "It's been great being able to be the guy in the middle of defense, relaying the call," Dolac said. "That's a big responsibility that we have, and it gets guys lined up, and it's our job and our responsibility to make sure that everybody has a call, knows the call, and they're doing the right job that they have."

Paul echoed these sentiments, stating, "It means a lot for coach to have a lot of trust in us, in order for us to trust us to have the green dot." The Rams' coaching staff, led by defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, has worked closely with the young linebackers to ensure they are comfortable within the defensive scheme and capable of handling the added responsibility.

While Paul's roster spot appears secure as a fifth-round pick, Dolac's future with the team is less certain as an undrafted free agent. However, his performance in the preseason has earned him an extended look, and the Rams have a history of success with undrafted players. Regardless of their final roster status, this experience has been invaluable for both players as they look to establish themselves in the NFL.