With the Rams facing the potential departure of some offensive linemen in free agency, there’s speculation that they may look to bolster their trenches in the upcoming draft. One prospect that could catch their eye is Kingsley Suamataia, who hails from BYU after transferring from Oregon and starting for two years there.
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He also actually happens to be related to a player already in the NFL. The Detroit Lions’ Penei Sewell. How are the two related?
Kingsley Suamataia’s Sewell connection
Suamataia was taking questions from reporters at the NFL Combine. One of them asked him if he’s ever received guidance from Penei Sewell, who happens to be his cousin. “We go way back. He’s been training me since I was young,” he revealed. He went on to say that Sewell started as a left tackle, but transitioned into the right. But he wants to do both. That doesn’t seem too much of a stretch since he’s already ambidextrous.
BYU OT Kingsley Suamataia on training with his cousin, Lions OT Penei Sewell: “We go way back, he’s been training me since I was young” 🔥
Not only that, he’s also a boxer and comes from a legacy where his grandfather was a Golden Gloves winner. As he’s prepping for the Draft, it seems like he won’t end up with his cousin in Detroit. Instead, the word on the street is that he could end up in Los Angeles with the Rams.
Kingsley to end up in Los Angeles?
He’s a force to be reckoned with on the field, especially when it comes to blocking downfield. Suamataia is adept at protecting the quarterback, but what really sets him apart is his ability to quickly move on from one play to the next. He doesn’t dwell on past mistakes, which is a valuable trait in football. With a solid build and great potential, he excels in various blocking techniques and seems right at home as a left tackle.
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October 15, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams linebacker Christian Rozeboom (56) celebrates after intercepting the football during the fourth quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Despite being one of the younger standout tackles, Kingsley Suamataia isn’t without flaws. He struggles against certain types of pass rushers, particularly those who are methodical or overpowering. His inconsistency with hand placement further complicates matters. While he’s been praised for his pass-blocking skills, his run blocking leaves much to be desired, according to Pro Football Focus. Despite allowing some pressures and penalties, his sack count remains relatively low.
Considering the Rams’ strong O-line coaching, Suamataia could be a sensible choice for them. However, questions arise regarding his immediate impact. Would they draft him early and let him develop for a year or two? Given his position as a tackle, shifting him to guard doesn’t make sense. Perhaps he could eventually replace Rob Havenstein, but whether he’s the best fit for the Rams remains uncertain.