Canadian DL Michael Hoecht tests negative for COVID-19, will be reinstated by L.A. Rams

Photo courtesy: Brown University

Canadian defensive tackle Michael Hoecht has tested negative for COVID-19, per source.

The Los Angeles Rams’ defender was moved to the team’s reserve/COVID-19 list on Friday. It was a precautionary move and, after twice testing negative for the virus, he will be moved back to the active roster.

Hoecht signed with L.A. as an undrafted free agent following a stellar career at Brown University. He was later selected tenth overall in the 2020 CFL draft by the Ottawa Redblacks.

The six-foot-four, 310-pounder was born in Oakville, Ont. and spent portions of his childhood in both Canada and the United States.

Hoecht has extraordinary athleticsm for his frame as he demonstrated at his virtual pro day. He ran a 4.65 forty-yard dash while putting up 23 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press — a solid combination of speed and strength.

The Rams have a lot of money invested in veteran defensive tackles Aaron Donald and Michael Brockers. Dressing an undrafted free agent to serve as a primary backup could be prudent and Hoecht fits the bill perfectly.