Fans Voice: Los Angeles Rams

Reviewing the Rams Draft Class

By: Joshua Forrest

The Rams had 8 picks in the 2017 NFL Draft, and while none of them were made in the 1st round, the organization still made sure to add the best players available. Drafting the right player is a tricky process; it takes hours upon hours of reviewing game film, analyzing combine/pro day workouts, and interviewing the players themselves. In this article, we are going to review the Rams Best Pick, their Most Interesting Pick, my personal Favorite Pick and UDFA.

Best Pick: Gerald Everett, TE, South Alabama, 2nd Round

The role of the tight end has been aggressively changing from simple in-line blocker to athletic x-factor. Antonio Gates, Delanie Walker, Greg Olsen, and Gronk himself are just a few players who have forced defensive coordinators to change the way they cover tight ends in the NFL. Gerald Everett could be the next match-up nightmare - the 2nd round pick from South Alabama consistently found ways to embarrass defenders at the college level. At 6’3 239 lbs, his unique blend of size and speed will allow him to become one of Goff’s favorite targets.

Most Interesting Pick: Sam Rogers, Fullback, Virginia Tech, 6th Round

The Rams picking Sam Rogers is a bit of a head scratcher. While he has enjoyed an excellent career at VT showing off his skills as a runner, receiver, and blocker, this was not a position of need for LA; especially when they already have a capable fullback in Cory Harkey. While the pick is a bit strange, head coach Sean McVay is an offensive genius; we could see Sam Rogers being utilized in a Mike Tolbert/John Kuhn type role. However, if Rogers does not find a niche on the team, this will be a wasted pick.

Favorite Pick: John Johnson, Safety, Boston College, 3rd Round

While his name is a bit plain, Johnson’s playing style is anything but. At 6’0, 208, Johnson is a jack of all trades defender; he can line up in the slot, play centerfield, or even come down and defend against the run. While the Rams have Maurice Alexander, Cody Davis, and Lamarcus Joyner returning to the back end of the secondary, Johnson’s versatility will allow him to find his way on the field sooner rather than later.

Favorite UDFA: Aarion Penton, Cornerback, Missouri

A first team All-SEC defender as a senior, Penton did not have the fortune of getting his name called in April. The Rams scooped up the former Mizzou Tiger after the NFL Draft and it may work out in Penton’s favor. Even though the Rams have Trumaine Johnson and have added several other corners in free agency (Nickel Robey-Coleman and Kayvon Webster), if Penton plays well he can find himself on the team's 53 man roster by the end of the preseason.

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