Colorado State University Athletics
#NextLevelRams: NFL Update Week 8
11/6/2015 12:00:00 AM | Football
By Grant Larson
Athletics Communications
Colorado State is represented by seven former Rams on current NFL rosters, and one player, Kapri Bibbs, on the Denver Broncos practice squad. This offseason saw offensive tackles Erik Pears signed by the San Francisco 49ers after a four-year stint with the Buffalo Bills, and Shelley Smith signed by the Denver Broncos after spending the previous season with the Miami Dolphins.
Ty Sambrailo was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the second round, and has started at left tackle through the preseason and first two games of the regular season, and Garrett Grayson was selected in the third round by the New Orleans Saints.
In his second year, Shaquil Barrett has become a mainstay of the Broncos defense after a tremendous preseason in which he recorded 16 tackles, four sacks, and a forced fumble. After spending his rookie season at left guard, Weston Richburg of the New York Giants has returned to his natural position of center, and Crockett Gillmore remains a starting tight end for the Baltimore Ravens.
Kapri Bibbs, who started the season on the Denver Broncos, has since been called up to the active roster and is a key member of the team's special teams unit.
Below is a look at what the #NextLevelRams did during Week 6 of the NFL season:
Ty Sambrailo (Denver Broncos) - offensive tackle
Sambrailo, who began the season as Denver's starting left tackle, was placed on season-ending injured reserve this week due to a torn labrum he suffered Week 3 against the Detroit Lions. After weeks of exhaustive rehab and strength training with little effect, it was determined that surgery would be necessary, ending Sambrailo's rookie campaign. Given the 6-8 month timetable for recovery, Sambrailo is expected to be back in action for training camp next season.
Weston Richburg (New York Giants) - starting center
Richburg and the Giants' offensive line blocked the way for a career day for QB Eli Manning, a game in which he threw for 350 yards and six touchdowns. Despite allowing two sacks, the offensive line played a near flawless game, helping the Giants put up a ridiculous 608 yards of total offense. Unfortunately for New York, Saints' QB Drew Brees was equally impressive and the Giants ended up losing the shootout 52-49. Richburg and the Giants take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday.
Shaquil Barrett (Denver Broncos) - outside linebacker
Shaquil Barrett had a relatively quiet game, by his standards, in a prime-time matchup against the Packers. The outside linebacker had two tackles and saw limited action due to a toe injury he suffered early in the game. The Broncos went on to knock off the previously undefeated Packers, and will look to build upon their unbeaten record Sunday against the Colts. Barrett is currently listed as probable for the game.
Crockett Gillmore (Baltimore Ravens) - tight end
Gillmore and the Ravens knocked off the San Diego Chargers on Sunday afternoon, 29-26. The second-year tight end was limited to two catches for eight yards, but one of those catches went for a five-yard touchdown. The Ravens have a bye in Week 9, but will be back in action the following week against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Erik Pears (San Francisco 49ers) - starting right tackle
The 49ers had another tough day offensively, putting up just 189 yards of total offense in a 27-6 loss to the St. Louis Rams. The 49ers will mix things up next week against the Atlanta Falcons, replacing starting QB Colin Kaepernick with Blaine Gabbert.
Shelley Smith (Denver Broncos) - reserve offensive lineman
Shelley Smith did not play in a win against the Green Bay Packers.
Garrett Grayson (New Orleans Saints) - backup quarterback
Garrett Grayson did not play in Sunday's win against the New York Giants.
