Dean Connors

Connors signed with the Rams as an undrafted free agent and must beat out Ronnie Rivers, Jarquez Hunter, and Jordan Waters just for a roster spot. UDFAs at RB have extremely low make-the-53 rates even on favorable landing spots.

The Rams return Kyren Williams (elite workhorse, 3 straight 1,100+ yard seasons) and Blake Corum at RB1/RB2, with 2025 4th-round pick Jarquez Hunter also needing a developmental year. There is no realistic path to touches in 2026 even if Connors makes the team.

Multiple scouting reports flag Connors' fumble history and decision-making speed as the primary reasons he went undrafted. Ball security issues are among the fastest ways to lose a coach's trust and playing time at the NFL level.

An older RB prospect (JUCO at Riverside CC, three years at Rice, transfer year at Houston) entering the league around age 23-24, compressing an already-short RB dynasty window before he's even earned a role.

Connors' 14.4% collegiate target share and receiving production fit McVay's pass-friendly system — if he makes the roster, there is a theoretical role as a passing-down back, though Hunter and Rivers are already ahead of him.

If waived by the Rams, Connors' receiving skill set could attract interest from teams with thinner backfields. A post-cuts pickup on a more favorable roster would be the primary path to any dynasty relevance.