Dean Connors received his first elevation from the Los Angeles Rams’ practice squad before Sunday’s matchup with the Denver Broncos, while linebacker Elias Neal was elevated for the second straight week. The Rams announced the transactions Saturday, after coach Sean McVay said Friday that Connors would get the opportunity. The moves followed Ronnie Rivers’ placement on injured reserve.
Connors signed with Los Angeles as an undrafted free agent after the draft and stood out in the preseason. He recorded 26 carries for 96 yards, along with seven receptions for 53 yards and three touchdowns. According to the source material, his three receiving touchdowns were the most by a preseason running back dating to at least 2013.
McVay credited Connors’ special teams contributions, including 19 preseason snaps, with helping him earn the promotion. Blake Corum and Kyren Williams were expected to receive the primary rushing work against Denver, leaving Connors’ anticipated duty mainly on special teams. He played 13 special teams snaps in the opener against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Neal was expected to work primarily on special teams as well, after playing 12 such snaps the prior week. His promotion added linebacker depth while Nate Landman dealt with a shoulder injury. Landman was expected to play despite being limited in practice throughout the week.
NFL teams may promote a practice-squad player three times in a season, and Neal would have two elevations through three weeks after Sunday’s game. The available material did not state how either player ultimately was used against Denver.