Rams rookie receiver Pharoh Cooper eager to train with veteran teammates

The Rams ranked last in passing yardage in 2015, which could create opportunity for rookies to compete for playing time.

Receiver Pharoh Cooper, a fourth-round pick from South Carolina, said after rookie mini-camp that he would play whatever role was asked of him.

“I’m just going to go out here and keep working hard and wherever Coach puts me and needs me, that’s where I’m going to play,” Cooper said.

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Cooper, 5 feet 11 and 203 pounds, had 66 catches for 973 yards and eight touchdowns last season. He also rushed for a touchdown and passed for another.

Rams Coach Jeff Fisher said he considered mini-camp an orientation for players. Drills were conducted at half speed and Fisher emphasized completing the two-day session injury free.

“We are still learning new formations, new plays,” Cooper said, adding, “It helps going slow, like at the walkthroughs a lot, but it’s hard to slow down when you are running. When you are rookies, you are just trying to show the coach that you can run the route full speed.”

The rookies will be joined this week by veteran players in meetings, however, Fisher said the groups would not immediately train together.

Cooper said he was eager to face his older teammates. “That’s kind of when you really feel like you joined the NFL, once you get around all the vets,” Cooper said.

Follow Lindsey Thiry on Twitter @LindseyThiry