When could Quentin Lake start for Rams?

The Los Angeles Rams’ roster is disproportionately filled with first and second-year players looking to find their footing. This preseason has provided Los Angeles with opportunities to witness growth in real-time.

One such development has been that of defensive back Quentin Lake. In the Rams’ 34-17 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, Lake made his mark, even if it did not light up the box score. His progress earned the attention of head coach Sean McVay.

“He’s doing a great job,” McVay started. “I think he’s got the ability to play safety. He’s done a nice job being able to play in our dime package and his versatility, his football instincts and intelligence shows up.”

Now entrenched in a position battle, Lake’s fans are calling for him to start. That may be too rich, at least for now.

McVay’s comments on the package Lake looked best in may be revelatory of his role. Learning on the fly, Lake may be the Rams’ sixth defensive back for their dime looks. He will be placed in positions to succeed, and obvious passing situations help discard certain responsibilities.

Los Angeles is young, unproven, and, most importantly, undecided on several aspects of the depth chart.

The Rams’ shaky secondary could afford Lake a chance to start, even out of bare necessity. His versatility and intelligence may give him the edge over a struggling defensive back.

“I think he’s shown great toughness in some of those covers,” McVay said. “He’s been really productive as a safety, and I think he’s really just getting comfortable … [He’s] always been instinctual, incredibly smart, comes from a great football pedigree.”

In all likelihood, Lake will continue to be an impact player on special teams. Expect to see him on the field more often as the season rolls on, too. Even if his inexperience temporarily holds him back, Lake could find himself starting by the Week 10 bye.

He will have a chance to continue his strong summer circuit on Saturday when the Rams travel to Denver to take on the Broncos.

You can follow Anthony Licciardi on Twitter @ALiccScouting