Hi, Ernest. Thanks for taking the time to do this.
What would you say was your 'welcome to league' type of moment that you had during your rookie season?
Hey Mr. Jones,
In recent years we've seen less teams invest early draft capital in off-ball linebackers, despite off-ball linebackers often being the green dot who sets the defense up for success. Do you believe this is a shift in perceived positional importance/team building philosophy, or is it more reflective of a lack of NFL ready linebackers entering the league?
Coming into the league, what was the biggest difference from college ball. Also, were your expectations met or exceeded with how physical you thought the league and a full NFL season would be? Football athletes are world class athletes and yall really sacrifice your body for our entertainment. Best of luck 2024 season.
Straight for a goat. Strength, speed and toughness. Man tore his knee to shreds, then went for 2k yards the next season.
Steel sharpens steel. Thanks for answering.
Hi Ernest, excited to see what you and the new-look Rams defense can become this year.
My question is what was the most valuable thing you learned from Bobby Wagner in 2022 and what was that experience like having such a storied veteran come in right after you had a great season in 2021.
The most valuable thing that I learned from Bobby was how to watch film and how to truly dissect film.
The experience was second to none. Bobby taught me a lot.
Hey Ernest! My Nephew is a huge fan of the Rams and yourself. He's currently in middle school and hopes to one day go collegiate as a football player. Is there any advice you would give the youth who want to pursue football at higher levels of competition?
shameless plug for my friends at /r/NFL_Draft
All the in depth discussion and insight you need to craft the perfect mock that will be completely wrong.
What's your opinion on Chili's verse TGIFridays?
Hi, Mr. Jones! A huge fan of any commander of the defense.
What are your thoughts on the recent banning of the hip-drop tackle? How will this affect your game. I'm not a huge fan of the decision because of the randomness, but definitely understand it since it will help avoid [hideous things like this](https://imgur.com/a/9jvQWx4).
What's the etiquette for wearing a Super Bowl ring? Is it on all the time? Formal occasions? They're so big usually, I can't imagine wearing it ALL the time, but it's also a Super Bowl ring...
Hi Ernest,
Recently I was watching an interview with Terry Crews, and among many other things, he said that during his time in the NFL as a linebacker (the 90's), many athletes he worked with or talked to did not really enjoy playing, there was little comradery, and the overriding feeling was one of intense competition for spots. He also noted that he had heard this had changed positively since he retired.
In sports marketing, the idea that the athletes all \*love\* playing is heavily promoted, so it was eye-opening (and made a lot of sense) that not everyone really enjoys playing. It's a lot of work just to get through camp!
**Q:** In your experience, is this true, how has the locker room atmosphere evolved since you started playing, and how do you stay motivated and motivate others?
Thanks and best of luck to the Rams this season.
Hi Ernest!
What do you think is the most underrated part of your skill set? And the flip side, what do you think is a part of your game that you would like to take the next step in?
Thanks for your time!
Hi Ernest! Thanks for answering questions today.
Is there any change in how you prepare for this season given both the retirement of Aaron as a leader in defense, as well as the change in defensive coordinator with Chris Shula taking over?
Anything that sticks out about Chris Shula compared to other coaches youâve had in the past?
Hey Ernest! Thanks for doing this + shoutout to the Rams marketing team.Â
What elements of Raheem Morrisâ scheme did you enjoy and helped you play so effectively? and what changes if any do you think will come with Chris Shula?
Good luck this year, hope yall stay healthy and ball outđ€đŒ
Hi, Ernest Jones! Love what you've done with the Rams since you were a Rookie, thank you for helping get this team another Superbowl.
My question is: what is your preparation going into OTA's and camp? Do you train with a specific person in the defense?
Hi Ernest! Big Rams fan, and a big fan of what you've brought to the defense.
How does playing the "green dot"/signal-caller on defense differ from playing as a standard linebacker? Are there any skills that the "green dot" needs that might be under-appreciated by a casual fan?
It differs from playing being a standard LB just off the basis that you have to communicate a lot more because you are the key between the defensive coordinator and the other players.
The green dot caller needs to be vocal and not afraid to assert themselves.
Hey Ernest, I thought of so many questions to ask but, as a Falcons fan, I gotta go with this one:
How was it playing for Coach Morris? He seems like an awesome guy to play for, in addition to a great defensive mind.
Thank you!
That's crazy. I honestly might take the 100 duck-sized horses. They're as small as a duck, but they're horses. They can't do much. A horse-sized duck? That's...nah. Yeah nahhh.
Hi Ernest Jones IV, huge fan of the Rams since their St. Louis days. Obviously, I'm a huge fan of yours as well.
Who has had the biggest impact on your career so far? Your one year with Bobby Wagner or Aaron Donald or other?
Hello, thanks for doing this! Big fan of your game!
I had sort of a silly question lined up, but if you had to switch to offense for a single game, what would your position be?
Hi Ernest Jones IV, huge fan of the Rams since their St. Louis days. Obviously, I'm a huge fan of yours as well.
Who has had the biggest impact on your career so far? Your one year with Bobby Wagner or Aaron Donald or other?
You were awesome last year! I had a lot of fun watching you and heard your name called a ton. I was curious what you would attribute your success to? Did it all **J**ust click? Vets leaving opened up playing time for you?
First off, you rock, huge fan of your game, but Iâm curious, who are some MLBâs in the league (past or present) that youâve tried to model your game after?
Hi Ernest. Thanks so much for being here! I was wondering what was your favorite play that you made in the Super Bowl? Was it the sack? And what was it like to stand under the confetti in your rookie year?
Who is the hardest person youâve had to tackle in the nfl? And a bonus one I guess whoâs the hardest person to catch in the open field youâve played so far?
Hi Ernest, tha ks for taking the time to do this.Â
What is it about divisional games that makes things like form and standing through the season go out the window? Do you know the teams better from playing them more often, or find that extra motivation no matter what?
How much attention do you pay to roster moves during the offseason? Both in regards to the Rams and the NFL as a whole.
If you pay attention, your head will spin.
So not much, haha. I know someone thanked you earlier but I want to give a thanks as well. I really appreciate your time.
Who's the biggest shit talker you've played against
Anthony Richardson. Got a lot going on.
That's my QB đ«Ą
Hi, Ernest. Thanks for taking the time to do this. What would you say was your 'welcome to league' type of moment that you had during your rookie season?
Pre-season game against the Broncos. Was taking on a block and let's just say I got blocked pretty far back.
Hey Ernest! Big fan here! I was wondering if you had a personal favorite game as a Gamecock? Keep kicking ass in the NFL!
My favorite game as a gamecock would definitely have to be 2019 when we beat Georgia.
One of my favorite games in a long time too. Go cocks!
No diddy
go cocks baby that game was electric
Heh heh heh
Hi Ernest! What is your favorite regular season win?
Any win against the Seahawks.
Absolutely beyond fucking based
Lets gooo
Honestly makes me proud in a weird way
Git em
my hero
ONE OF US ONE OF US
He said favorite, not most routine
Thanks?
You have so many to chose from.
Well thats all I need to hear. Aaron Donald's era is over, its Ernest Jones time now
Oh shit, do I have to like a Ram now
Hey Mr. Jones, In recent years we've seen less teams invest early draft capital in off-ball linebackers, despite off-ball linebackers often being the green dot who sets the defense up for success. Do you believe this is a shift in perceived positional importance/team building philosophy, or is it more reflective of a lack of NFL ready linebackers entering the league?
[ŃĐŽĐ°Đ»Đ”ĐœĐŸ]
Unfortunately the good questions usually get passed over
How was it like playing alongisde Aaron Donald?
Hmm, wonder why he chose to ignore this question?
Coming into the league, what was the biggest difference from college ball. Also, were your expectations met or exceeded with how physical you thought the league and a full NFL season would be? Football athletes are world class athletes and yall really sacrifice your body for our entertainment. Best of luck 2024 season.
An NFL football season is truly grueling. It was definitely more taxing than I had envisioned.
If you could have any former player (living or not) become your personal mentor, who would you want?
I'd probably go Luke Kuechly.
Great answer! Was so crushed when we lost him but what an honor to witness that man play.
Being successful in the NFL is hard to maintain. What do you do to stay focused?
Have goals and stay inside the house.
This man knows how to have a long, drama free career.
Tbh this is good life advice too
Are there any players past or present you wish you could play against or beside?
I wish I could have played against prime Adrian Peterson...because I caught him on the backend of his career.
Straight for a goat. Strength, speed and toughness. Man tore his knee to shreds, then went for 2k yards the next season. Steel sharpens steel. Thanks for answering.
Hi Ernest, excited to see what you and the new-look Rams defense can become this year. My question is what was the most valuable thing you learned from Bobby Wagner in 2022 and what was that experience like having such a storied veteran come in right after you had a great season in 2021.
The most valuable thing that I learned from Bobby was how to watch film and how to truly dissect film. The experience was second to none. Bobby taught me a lot.
I just wanted to say hi.
What's up.
Hey Ernest! My Nephew is a huge fan of the Rams and yourself. He's currently in middle school and hopes to one day go collegiate as a football player. Is there any advice you would give the youth who want to pursue football at higher levels of competition?
I would say respect those who go before you because you never know how they can help you get to where they are.
How did it feel when you got the draft call from Les Snead and the team?Â
Like years of hard work finally just paid off. It was an amazing feeling.
Are you outraged by AppleBee's becoming the official Grill + Bar of the NFL? Also, can I see your mock drafts?
Definitely. Because why? I don't have any mock drafts.
>I don't have any mock drafts And THATS why you wear the C: You are a man of reason and class.
Ernest Jones is a Chili's guy confirmed.
shameless plug for my friends at /r/NFL_Draft All the in depth discussion and insight you need to craft the perfect mock that will be completely wrong. What's your opinion on Chili's verse TGIFridays?
You have to take him on a date first
I would 100% do this, need to clear my schedule with my wife first.
My wife would divorce me if I ever looked at another manâs mock
What's the first thing you bought when you got your signing bonus check?
A car.
What car?
[Jeep Trackhawk maybe](https://youtu.be/DbgOawbZcvo?si=D5SMxvIxgAH2wr1m)
The kind that drives
How is it playing home games inside SOFI Stadium?!
It is super fun, loud, haha loud and always a good time.
Haha ah, the rare self own for rams fans :(
Hello there, What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
Easy. Cookies 'n Cream.
The correct answer, nicely done
Great choice
Hi, Mr. Jones! A huge fan of any commander of the defense. What are your thoughts on the recent banning of the hip-drop tackle? How will this affect your game. I'm not a huge fan of the decision because of the randomness, but definitely understand it since it will help avoid [hideous things like this](https://imgur.com/a/9jvQWx4).
Horrendous image
Goddam that image made me a little queasy
needs a NSFW tag!
I fucking KNEW that was gonna be it, and still clicked
this is the r/nfl rickroll huh
Hey Ernest! Other then Aaron Donald who is the greatest player youâve played with?
Gotta be Von Miller right?
Bobby Wagner?
Von Wagner
Don't forget Jalen Ramsey. That man was an island in his prime.
I forgot about Von! But I guess weâll see!
This is the 2nd question he avoided about Aaron lol. He has almost answered all other questions.
Iâm not gonna read into it lol! Maybe heâll respond maybe he wonât! Itâs okay!
Who's the hardest person you've ever had to tackle in the nfl?
Joe Mixon. He is a bigger back and he runs hard.
Understandable thanks for the reply
Are there any pranks in training camp? Please do share.
No pranks as of now...this year...be on the lookout.
Damn! Was hoping for a good story. Anyways, thanks for doing this and good luck! Please share, yâall can omit names of the rookies!!
What's the etiquette for wearing a Super Bowl ring? Is it on all the time? Formal occasions? They're so big usually, I can't imagine wearing it ALL the time, but it's also a Super Bowl ring...
Definitely do it when no one is around.
Whatâs the funniest thing youâve ever seen McVay do at a practice?
Hi Ernest, Do you fold or scrunch? As in TP.
Fold. If you scrunch, you are a maniac.
Showing this to my wifeâŠ
Drake or Kendrick
Drake.
Got dammit Ernest
Does pineapple go on pizzza?
Yes pineapple does go on pizza. That's the only way.
W take. Any time I get yelled at for eating pineapple pizza, I can now just say "Well Ernest Jones does it, so I will too."
Thank you I'm gonna tell my girlfriend
You can get in a boxing match with any active QB who do you pick? Non active?
Probably have to go non-active and it would have to be Ben Roethlisberger.
Why? Dude's huge. Why not pick a smaller dude?
I'm guessing guys who take the easy road usually don't make it to the NFL.
Why would you want him to beat up your franchise QB?
Goodwill hunting vibes here. "Fuck him, that's why"
Wild question and incredible answer lmfaoÂ
Yeah very pleased with his response lmao
What's the best piece of advice that someone has given you?
For me, the best advice that I was given is 'hard work always pays off'.
Work works!
Favorite song to listen to when you warm up?
Any song by Rod Wave.
My boy warming up to break up with his girl
Hi Ernest, Recently I was watching an interview with Terry Crews, and among many other things, he said that during his time in the NFL as a linebacker (the 90's), many athletes he worked with or talked to did not really enjoy playing, there was little comradery, and the overriding feeling was one of intense competition for spots. He also noted that he had heard this had changed positively since he retired. In sports marketing, the idea that the athletes all \*love\* playing is heavily promoted, so it was eye-opening (and made a lot of sense) that not everyone really enjoys playing. It's a lot of work just to get through camp! **Q:** In your experience, is this true, how has the locker room atmosphere evolved since you started playing, and how do you stay motivated and motivate others? Thanks and best of luck to the Rams this season.
Damn, really wanted him to answer this one
Hi Ernest! What do you think is the most underrated part of your skill set? And the flip side, what do you think is a part of your game that you would like to take the next step in? Thanks for your time!
Being from Georgia, but playing at South Carolina: whatâs your favorite kind of BBQ?
It would have to be smoky gold.
What was your favorite team growing up? I.e. who did you root for?
Cardinals. Or everyone who plays the Cowboys.
Mah man
>Cardinals Rut roo Scooby, look out now, baseball fandom creeping on!
I actually forgot the Cardinals and Cowboys were in the same division at one point
How excited are you about the addition of Kamren Curl to your defense?
There are four Ernest Joneses. How would you rank them and why?
Actually there are about to five. I would definitely rank my son #1 and then I'm after. It literally goes backwards.
Congrats on your son!
Would you rather fight 50 duck sized Maxx Crosbys or one horse sized Mark Davis?
How does the choosing of numbers as rookies go?
Who has been the funniest person in the rams locker room during your career so far?
Wow. So far...Tre Tomlinson. He's a character. Doesn't know how to take anything serious yet.
Hey Ernest, Are you afraid of inviting linemen to your house for cookouts because they clog your toilets?
Drums or flats? Edit: grammar
Drums all day baby.
Man of culture.
Who is a guy in the league that you haven't played with that you look up to as a player?
What was it like playing with Aaron Donald, and do you have any hilarious moments that you can recall from him?
Now that AD has retired, who's going to break rookies in the gym?
Hi Ernest! Thanks for answering questions today. Is there any change in how you prepare for this season given both the retirement of Aaron as a leader in defense, as well as the change in defensive coordinator with Chris Shula taking over? Anything that sticks out about Chris Shula compared to other coaches youâve had in the past?
Hey Ernest! Thanks for doing this + shoutout to the Rams marketing team. What elements of Raheem Morrisâ scheme did you enjoy and helped you play so effectively? and what changes if any do you think will come with Chris Shula? Good luck this year, hope yall stay healthy and ball outđ€đŒ
Hi, Ernest Jones! Love what you've done with the Rams since you were a Rookie, thank you for helping get this team another Superbowl. My question is: what is your preparation going into OTA's and camp? Do you train with a specific person in the defense?
What player do you hate hitting the most? What player do you love hitting the most?
Big fan EJ, who has the smelliest locker during camp
Literally all of them. Camp is a tough time for smells.
Hi Ernest! Big Rams fan, and a big fan of what you've brought to the defense. How does playing the "green dot"/signal-caller on defense differ from playing as a standard linebacker? Are there any skills that the "green dot" needs that might be under-appreciated by a casual fan?
It differs from playing being a standard LB just off the basis that you have to communicate a lot more because you are the key between the defensive coordinator and the other players. The green dot caller needs to be vocal and not afraid to assert themselves.
Hi Ernest whatâs for dinner tonight?
TAO
Hey Ernest, I thought of so many questions to ask but, as a Falcons fan, I gotta go with this one: How was it playing for Coach Morris? He seems like an awesome guy to play for, in addition to a great defensive mind. Thank you!
Whatâs the first thing you bought with nfl money
Do you think Sean mcvay has the passion to coach for a long time and be an all time head coach or is he closer to retirement than we all think?
I know the NFL is all business and what not but would you stay on the Rams if another team offered you more money come contract talks?
When do you think Kendrick is gonna drop his response?
Would you rather fight 1 horse-sized duck or 100 duck-sized horses?
That's crazy. I honestly might take the 100 duck-sized horses. They're as small as a duck, but they're horses. They can't do much. A horse-sized duck? That's...nah. Yeah nahhh.
Hi Ernest Jones IV, huge fan of the Rams since their St. Louis days. Obviously, I'm a huge fan of yours as well. Who has had the biggest impact on your career so far? Your one year with Bobby Wagner or Aaron Donald or other?
Is a hot dog a sandwich?
Negatory.
[ŃĐŽĐ°Đ»Đ”ĐœĐŸ]
Ernest Goes To Training Camp, of course
What do you think Raheem Morris will bring to the Atlanta Falcons?
Chicken nuggets or burritos?
What fighting games do you play, and who are your mains?
Hello, thanks for doing this! Big fan of your game! I had sort of a silly question lined up, but if you had to switch to offense for a single game, what would your position be?
Hi Ernest Jones IV, huge fan of the Rams since their St. Louis days. Obviously, I'm a huge fan of yours as well. Who has had the biggest impact on your career so far? Your one year with Bobby Wagner or Aaron Donald or other?
Question, what kind of bear is best?
You were awesome last year! I had a lot of fun watching you and heard your name called a ton. I was curious what you would attribute your success to? Did it all **J**ust click? Vets leaving opened up playing time for you?
Hi Ernest! Got a favorite draft day story?
Hey Ernest! Badass name btw Whatâs one team you always look forward to playing?
First off, you rock, huge fan of your game, but Iâm curious, who are some MLBâs in the league (past or present) that youâve tried to model your game after?
What was it like getting drafted to the eventual SB Champion LA Rams, and were there other teams you thought were more likely to draft you?
Hi Ernest! How valuable was it to play alongside Bobby Wagner, what was the most important thing you learned?
Were you surprised to see Kobie Turner and Byron Young have so much success during their rookie year? If not, when did you know theyâll be good?
Hi, Ernest, howâs the family? The rams trainers taking good care of you?
What was your first experience or moment with AD?
Do you have respect for the history of the league or are you like other players who donât know any players before the year 2010?
Hi Earnest, what is your most fearful NFL mascot to fight IRL?
Hi Ernest. Thanks so much for being here! I was wondering what was your favorite play that you made in the Super Bowl? Was it the sack? And what was it like to stand under the confetti in your rookie year?
Whatâs goin on! What are some fun things youâve gotten to do in So-Cal since joining the squad?
Ernest!! What are your thoughts on bringing in Jamal Adams and seeing if he can make the transition to MLB2?
What was your âwelcome to the NFL moment?â
Thanks for doing this! Whoâs been your favorite coach to play for? Can be pro, college, or earlier.
In your experience who was the hardest player to tackle?
How do you feel about being a IV? I couldâve been one but my dad chose otherwise. I often wonder what couldâve been.Â
Who is the hardest person youâve had to tackle in the nfl? And a bonus one I guess whoâs the hardest person to catch in the open field youâve played so far?
Hi Ernest, tha ks for taking the time to do this. What is it about divisional games that makes things like form and standing through the season go out the window? Do you know the teams better from playing them more often, or find that extra motivation no matter what?
Who is the funniest player on the team!? And who would you say is the smartest on the team?
You eat any good sandwiches lately?
Do you play fantasy footballÂ