Rams coordinator Kevin O'Connell gained knowledge as Tom Brady's teammate

Rams offensive coordinator Kevin O'Connell was once Tom Brady's teammate with the New England Patriots. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)His approach was simple: Be a sponge. Be seen, not heard.

That was how rookie quarterback Kevin O’Connell navigated his way in 2008 after he was drafted by the New England Patriots and became teammates with Tom Brady.

Twelve years later, O’Connell, 35, is the first-year offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Rams. Brady, 43, is in his first season as quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after winning six Super Bowl titles in 20 seasons with the Patriots.

The Rams (6-3) play the Buccaneers (7-3) on Monday night at Tampa Bay.

O’Connell, a…