Terrell Burgess sees ‘big opportunity’ for himself at safety in 2021

The Los Angeles Rams have churned through safeties fairly often over the last four years, starting everyone from Lamarcus Joyner to John Johnson and Eric Weddle to Taylor Rapp. Even sixth-round rookie Jordan Fuller was a starter for them last season.

Changes at the position are nothing new for the front office or coaching staff, which is why Johnson’s departure in free agency was hardly surprising. It was almost expected after the team drafted three safeties in the last two years.

Johnson’s departure opens the door for Terrell Burgess, who missed most of his rookie year due to a broken ankle. He’s gearing up for Year 2, though, and sees a big opportunity for himself at safety.

“I think I’m just looking forward to being able to play again,” he said on the UBoyz podcast. “Being able to go out there and there’s a big opportunity for me this year. I’m not going to say a spot’s open, but there’s more of an opportunity this year and I’m just excited to be able to help the team any way I can. I feel like I’m going to take some rein and I’m excited to be able to go out there and show what I can do, show the people what I’ve got.”

Burgess only played 48 defensive snaps before getting hurt, but he was coming into his own as the season progressed. He made five tackles against the Bears in his final game of the season and also broke up a pass the week before against the 49ers.

He’s a versatile player who can not only help at safety, but also in the slot. New defensive coordinator Raheem Morris shouldn’t have any trouble finding a role for Burgess, potentially even as a starting safety next to Jordan Fuller.