3 sleeper prospects for Rams to target in 2023 NFL Draft​

The Los Angeles Rams have spent years trading away picks to win now, so pretty much all their selections in the 2023 NFL draft will have to be NFL draft sleepers. LA doesn’t pick until the early second round (No. 36), but then has two thirds, three fifths, three sixths, and two sevenths. During this Rams draft, here are three NFL draft sleepers to consider at positions of need.

QB Aidan O’Connell, Purdue

Matthew Stafford is the only QB on the Rams roster heading into the 2023 NFL Draft. The 35-year-old is obviously in decline, though, and spent the end of last season out injured. It’s too late to get a new franchise signal-caller on the roster for 2023 (and the organization doesn’t have the draft capital to do it anyway).

That said, general manager Les Snead and head coach Sean McVay can search out NFL draft sleepers at the position to develop long-term.

Purdue QB Aidan O’Connell is a sleeper the team needs to look at.

O’Connell is 6-foot-3, 212 pounds, so he fits the profile of an NFL QB. He was also a two-year starter with 9,219 passing yards, 65 touchdowns, and 30 interceptions for the Boilermakers. The signal-caller showed excellent accuracy and solid arm strength at the combine, too, hitting 47-of-50 pass attempts (and the three missed were dropped by wide receivers).

The downside of O’Connell is that he’s not Anthony Richardson. In today’s NFL, everyone is looking for the next Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen. They want quarterbacks with rocket arms and who can run like wideouts (or at least nimble tight ends).

Aidan O’Connell doesn’t possess these traits. He is an old-school pocket passer who can move around a little in the pocket, but he’s not beating anyone outside of it.

If anyone can take a real quarterback like this, though, and turn him into a starter without all the athletic bells and whistles, it’s McVay, which is why the Rams should take a fifth-round shot on O’Connell.

EDGE Nick Herbig, Wisconsin

The Rams were 21st in the NFL in sacks last season with 38, and 19.0 of those came from Leonard Floyd (now a free agent), Bobby Wagner (now on the Seattle Seahawks), and Greg Gaines (now on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers).

Los Angeles has a pass-rush problem, and they need to solve some of that in the 2023 NFL Draft by finding at least one (if not more) late-round NFL draft sleepers.

To find a sleeper pass-rusher, you should look for production over athletic traits. Sure, freakish athletes are great and can sometimes become dominant forces. But a player who can get double-digit sacks in a Power Six conference can probably get them in the NFL, too.

Wisconsin defensive end/linebacker Nick Herbig finished sixth in the FBS with 11.0 sacks last season. And the 6-foot-2, 240-pound pass rusher had 9.0 the season before that.

Herbig knows how to rush the passer, and with Aaron Donald taking up a lot of the attention in the middle, he should be able to use his quickness and pass-rush moves to get after opposing QBs.

The Hawaii native needs to get bigger and put on more muscle. He is definitely undersized at just 240 pounds However, like we saw with Haason Reddick on the Philadelphia Eagles, if you put an undersized pass rusher in the right position to succeed, he can dominate in the NFL.

WR Jason Brownlee, Southern Mississippi

Another thing that Matthew Stafford (or Aidan O’Connell) can use this offseason is another wide receiver. Cooper Kupp should get back healthy and go back to being one of the best pass-catcher in the league, but Van Jefferson, Allen Robinson II, and Ben Skowronek haven’t proven to be the true WR2 the Rams need.

The 2023 NFL draft WR class isn’t top-heavy like past classes with Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, but it is relatively deep, and there should be some NFL draft sleepers in the later rounds.

One way to find a sleeper is to look to smaller school pass-catchers who haven’t gotten the attention that Power Six FBS players have.

Jason Brownlee from Southern Mississippi fits that bill.

Brownlee is 6-foot-2, 198 pounds, with long arms (33 ½ inches) and big hands (9 ¾ inches), he has an excellent catch radius and can pull down balls thrown anywhere near him.

The Mississippi native also knows how to win and dominate his competition. He was part of a JUCO National Championship team in 2018 and a JUCO All-American in 2019. He then caught 135 balls for 2,144 yards and scored 21 touchdowns in three seasons at Southern Miss.

Jason Brownlee might not have been on ESPN much, but he could be at the next level if he outperforms his draft stock.

Since the OBJ board got shut-down & Tyler Rapp just signed with The Bills

…remember you read it here first.

(Don’t worry…if you don’t, I’ll remind you!

Looks like!
Wow what a joke

I start with this premise that I believe most will agree with: the Rams need to take a RB in this year’s draft. Our current depth chart is the enigmatic Cam Akers, who is starting the final year of his rookie deal, Kyren Williams, and Ronnie Rivers. That’s not enough, in my opinion, for the short or long term.

This year’s RB class is pretty deep. I think there are good options throughout the draft. Here’s how I’d break it down:

Players I’d Take at Pick #36, and Might Even Trade Up to Get
1. Bijan Robinson, Texas (5’11, 215 lbs.)

Players I’d Take at Pick #36 (but would not trade up to get)
2. Jahmyr Gibbs, Alabama (5’9, 199 lbs.)

Players I’d Take in Late 2nd (after trade down) or 3rd Round
3. Israel Abanikanda, Pittsburgh (5’10, 216 lbs.)
4. Zach Charbonnet, UCLA (6’0, 214 lbs.)
5. Sean Tucker, Syracuse (5’9, 207 lbs.)

Players I’d Consider in 3rd, but Prefer (after a trade) in the 4th Round
6. Tyjae Spears, Tulane (5’10, 201 lbs.)
7. Devon Achane, Texas A&M (5’8, 188 lbs.)
8. Rochon Johnson, Texas (6’0, 219 lbs.)

Day 3 Prospects
9. Keaton Mitchell, East Carolina (5’8, 179 lbs.)
10. DeWayne McBride, UAB (5’10, 209 lbs.)
11. Tank Bigsby, Auburn (6’0, 210 lbs.)
12. Chase Brown, Illinois (5’9, 209 lbs.)

Preface: We now know all of the losses on defense due to trade, cuts and Free Agency. This will be a Defensive rebuild similar to that of the 2001 season. There will be a couple of positions I don’t address, mostly O-line. Considering the restructuring of Noteboom and Allen, it seems the Rams Coaching staff is confident rolling into Training Camp with O-lineman they already have under contract. This will be about upgrading the Rams pass rush all along the D-line.
Cuts:
Tyler Higbee ; designated as Post June 1st ( Cap Savings – 6.5 Mil )

Free Agency:
CB Fabian Moreau (Giants) 6’0” - 198 lbs

At 29 he is not over the hill yet and can provide needed leadership for the Rookie and second year players
Trades:
Rams send WR Alan Robinson
Packers send 2023 pick #149 (5th round)

Rams send #149 & #167
Jaguars send pick #121 (4th rnd)

Rams send #177 & #189
Saints send pick #146 (5th rnd)

Rams end up with 10 total picks

Draft:
Pick 2:05 Will McDonald IV - Edge - Iowa St
(7) Will McDonald IV is the BEST SPEED RUSHER in this Draft Class: Film Breakdown - YouTube

Same text as Mock 1.0: McDonald is 6’3” ; 236 lbs and was played, IMO, out of position most of the time as 5-tech lineman. He generated 5 sacks at this position. He’s instinctive, flexible with good bend for turning the corner and has excellent length with a 7’ wingspan. If he gets to show his skills from a traditional OLB spot at the Senior Bowl, his draft value may go up and may not be available at this spot. May be a better pass rusher in the NFL than Nolan Smith, who has been mocked to the Rams recently.

Pick 3.6 Darius Rush – CB - South Carolina
(7) Darius Rush South Carolina CB Highlights || Zone Lockdown Corner - YouTube

Rush has prototypical size for a CB at 6’2” - 200 lbs, was overshadowed by teammate and first round talent, Cam Smith. Rush was still invited to the Senior Bowl where he showed to be one of the best CB’s there, winning most of his 1 on 1 reps in practice.

Pick 3:14 Siaki Ika – NT – Baylor
(7) Siaki Ika 2022 Highlights | Baylor DL | 2023 NFL Draft Prospect - YouTube

Ika is a Pure Nose Tackle... 6’3 - 334lbs.. Can step in Day 1 and be Greg Gaines replacement. In addition to being able to take up space and take on double teams in the Run game, he is arguably a better Pass Rusher.

Pick 4:18 Luke Schoonmaker – TE – Michigan
(7) Luke Schoonmaker Highlights - YouTube

Schoonmaker may be the most underrated TE in this class. He is a better than average blocker and is highly athletic in the Passing game. The Rams coaches should be enamored with his test scores at the Combine. I think he upgrades the TE room even with Higbee being cut.

Pick 5:12 Charlie Jones – WR/KR - Purdue-(Iowa)
(7) Charlie Jones "Chuck Sizzle" - Purdue WR Highlights - YouTube

They call him “Chuck Sizzle” … he is one of my favorite players in this Draft. He has average size, his speed maybe a bit better than average, but all I can do is think of Cooper Kupp when I watch his highlights. He just makes plays. In addition, he has experience returning Kick offs and Punts. He should make a good WR3 or 4.

Pick 5:36 Dylan Horton - DL/Edge - TCU
(7) Dylan Horton 2022 Highlights | TCU EDGE | 2023 NFL Draft Prospect - YouTube

Horton provides versatility on the D-line. Most of his experience is playing as a DE over the O-Tackle. Had a very productive Senior season with 10 sacks. He can be the situational pass rusher from the DE position, and can provide depth as a Strong side OLB.

Pick 6:5 Clayton Tune - QB - Houston
(7) Clayton Tune Senior Season Highlights-Houston QB-2022-2023 CFB Season - YouTube

Tune has over 4 years of experience at Houston. He also has good size at 6’3”-220 lbs. He has the ability to gain yardage as a runner when plays are completely covered and/or extend plays with his feet. He looks to have a strong enough arm to make all of the throws. He should be an upgrade over Wolford/Perkins.

Pick 6:14 Mekhi Blackmon - CB - USC/Colorado
(7) Mekhi Blackmon Cornerback Highlights ᴴᴰ - YouTube

Blackmon has decent size for a CB at 5’11” - 180 lbs. He has a good balance of man and zone coverage skills and is an above average tackler. Has experience covering larger receivers in the Slot. He has a QB rating of only 56 when targeted... this is top tier

Pick 7:6 Mohamoud Diabate - LB/Edge - Utah/Florida
(7) Mohamoud Diabate Ultimate Florida / Utah Highlights || HD - YouTube

Diabate excels at rushing the Passer. He also has experience playing Inside LB. He has good length at 6’4” - 240 lbs. He will be another player with versatility who can play 2 positions. At this point, he is not strong enough to set the edge on running plays. He should be a situational pass rusher on the edge, and can also blitz from the MLB position.

Pick 7:34 Gervarrius Owens - Safety - Houston
(7) Gervarrius Owens Highlights - YouTube

Owens has decent size for a Safety at 6’0”- 195lbs and good range with 4.50/40 speed. He has excellent ball skills and is very good at man coverage. You just don’t want him playing in the Box to defend the run. He will also have to learn to be a better wrap tackler. He has the range to be used as a single high Safety when you want to place the other Safety near the LOS.

Projected Starters:
Offense:
QB: Matt Stafford
HB: Cam Akers
WR: Cooper Kupp
WR: Van Jefferson
WR: Charlie Jones
TE: Brycen Hopkins / Luke Schoonmaker
LT: Joe Noteboom
LG: Aleric Jackson
C: Brian Allen
RG: Logan Bruss
RT: Rob Havenstein



Defense:
DE: Aaron Donald
NT: Siaki Ika
DE: Bobby Brown
OLB: Michael Hoecht
ILB: Christian Rozeboom / Mohamoud Diabate
ILB: Ernest Jones
OLB: Will McDonald
CB: Fabien Moreau / Mekhi Blackmon
CB: Darius Rush
Nickel CB: Cobie Durant
SAF: Jordan Fuller
SAF: Carnell Lake/Gervarrius Owens

Special Teams:
Returns - Charlie Jones
Place kicker: TBD UDFA
Punter: TBD UDFA
L/S : TBD UDFA

I sorted these lists by yards, then by attempts.

Who are your top 5 RB’s for 2023?

Building a little on this topic:


The AFC is STACKED at the QB position. Like - WOW. Pretty hard to rank.

The NFC is much weaker… hard to rank for different reasons.

Going into the draft, who are your top 5 AFC QB’s? Who are your top 5 NFC?

Here are the current starters to which you can cut/paste your order.

AFC
Baltimore Ravens - Lamar Jackson
Buffalo Bills - Josh Allen
Cincinnati Bengals - Joe Burrow
Cleveland Browns - Deshaun Watson
Denver Broncos - Russell Wilson
Houston Texans - Davis Mills
Indianapolis Colts - Gardner Minshew/Nick Foles/Sam Ehlinger
Jacksonville Jaguars - Trevor Lawrence
Kansas City Chiefs - Patrick Mahomes
Las Vegas Raiders - Jimmy Garoppolo
Los Angeles Chargers - Justin Herbert
Miami Dolphins - Tua Tagovailoa
New England Patriots - Mac Jones
New York Jets - Aaron Rodgers
Pittsburgh Steelers - Kenny Pickett
Tennessee Titans - Ryan Tannehill

NFC
Atlanta Falcons - Desmond Ridder
Arizona Cardinals - Kyler Murray
Carolina Panthers - Andy Dalton
Chicago Bears - Justin Fields
Dallas Cowboys - Dak Prescott
Detroit Lions - Jared Goff
Green Bay Packers - Jordan Love
Los Angeles Rams - Matthew Stafford
Minnesota Vikings - Kirk Cousins
New Orleans Saints - Derek Carr
New York Giants - Daniel Jones
Philadelphia Eagles - Jalen Hurts
San Francisco 49ers - Brock Purdy/Trey Lance
Seattle Seahawks - Geno Smith
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Kyle Trask/Baker Mayfield
Washington Commodes - Sam Howell/Jacoby Brissett

My hope for you is that you learn something every day of your life, and that's what happened for me today.

I can think of two people who's work I admired greatly, but could no longer enjoy: Robin Williams and Karen
Carpenter. Some might include Kurt Cobain in this, but Nirvana was popular when I tuned out from music in
general when I was working 70 hours a week.

I loved Robin Williams so much and was horrified by what he did to himself. This unexplored feeling has
driven me away from enjoying his extensive career in comedy and film, until today. I decided to explore
why I felt that way and it was this: He let personal failures destroy him and deep down I feared that same
thing. I was embarrassed for him that he felt the only way out was hanging himself in a closet, deciding not
to reach out for help that last time. Through his comedy. I could always see deep sadness. No, I'm not looking
at my closet as an escape like he did. But I can say that during dark times in my life when I felt failure so
keenly or that life was passing me by, I felt similarly. My embarrassment for him, was really directed inward.

Karen Carpenter destroyed herself through anorexia. So talented...so gifted. She let personal demons destroy
her and I identified with that to a much lesser degree than with Robin Williams.

Lesson Learned: Don't let personal failure destroy you and don't let it define you. You have another day to
turn it around. Hope is a good thing.


Maybe you learned this years ago and so give us a revelation that happened in your life. Keep it brief.
Brevity is your friend.

I created this depth chart for my own use to project the "holes" in the roster and how the Rams may evolve their schemes. I think their offense is pretty set in terms of their skill players. I excluded Robinson as a WR because I think he will be a draft day trade. Regardless they have a good set of WRs with speed to threaten all levels of the secondary. Because of it, I see them facing a lot of zone with 2 deep shells.

QB Stafford
RB Akers, Williams
WR Kupp, Jefferson, Atwell, Skowronek
TE Higbee, Long, Hopkins

LT Noteboom
LG Thomas
C Allen
RG Bruss
RT Havenstein

Game swings: OT/OG Jackson, C/OG Shelton, OG Anchrum

I think they could also opt for Jackson at LG though I think Thomas brings more to the table as a pulling OG. I think the Rams could re-sign Cole Toner as a backup OG to replace Anchrum as a gameday reserve. But if they are serious about Shelton as their starting C they would draft his backup this year, probably in the 5th or 6th round.

I think QB2 will be addressed in the draft. They will probably hold off on signing a vet until they see who they can get in the draft. I think the Rams could get a decent backup in the draft in the 5th round.

RB3 is a position they could address in the 5th or more likely the 6th round. The P and PK I see being taken in the 5th round. I can see them adding to the WR room with a late round day three pick.

DE Hoecht / Thomas
NT Brown / Murchison
DT Donald / Carter
JACK Hardy

MIKE Jones
WIL Rozeboom
SAM Zalkenburg

RCB Durant
LCB Rochell
SS Fuller
2 Deep Safety Shell Lake & Yeast

If Morris plays a two deep shell like I think he will then Fuller replaces Zalkenburg who in turn can replace Thomas behind Hoecht. Hardy's starting position is up for grabs and I think will be filled via the draft. The same can be said for the WIL position.

Morris could also move to a DL of:

DE Donald
NT Murchison
DT Carter
DE Hoecht

Morris wants to play a 4-2-5 as his base as he's been trending that way and could do it with Fuller as his hybrid SAM / SS. (Which is how he should have played Rapp)

I see their draft priorities as edge, CB, and ILB with speed to play in coverage to pair with Jones as it was with Wagner. It's why I think if the Rams nail their 1st three picks they can be a playoff team.

I think it's clear by the Rams allowing Gaines to walk they hope Murchison can fill the void. It remains to be seen if he can. He flashed enough to warrant optimism. Edge and ILB (coverage) to play the WIL position and CB are what I see as the most important needs defensively.

I honestly think they have the guys they want on the OL. It's a matter of getting them healed and properly coached up. This OL could be better than 2021 which had Edwards at LG. I see Thomas and even Jackson as an upgrade.

As long as Stafford and the WRs stay healthy this is a very good offense. Williams has shown he makes the Rams two deep at RB so adding a RB3 is all they need.

TEs are locked in IMO with Higbee, Long, and Hopkins. Hopkins has shown enough to warrant another year as TE3.

On defense, the DL will be totally rebuilt around Donald. I see Morris continuing to play his Fangio style combo front of a two gap NT (Brown) and one gap DE and DT with an OLB as their second DE. I think Morris will continue his 4-2-5 defense with Jones and a rookie ILB who hopefully will have the speed to cover as a replacement for Wagner.

If we are fortunate there will be no more of Kendrick starting. His poor play along with his poor attitude makes me wonder why he's still on the team. Hopefully, he won't be in September. Both Lake and Yeast have enough range if they are splitting the field as the deep safeties. Fuller proved he's good in the short to mid-range zones.

I expect them to go defense with all 3 day two picks. I don't see Snead trading out of those picks as two of them are at the top of their rounds.

If the FO was being honest about "seeing what they have on the roster" then there aren't a lot of starting positions to be filled. This is obviously looking like a setup year to 2024. At that point, they will know what their roster is and isn't and Snead can make moves accordingly.

The only wildcard IMO would be if Tanner McKee is on the board at 36. Pure pocket passers have gone out of vogue in the NFL with the exception of the Rams and maybe one or two teams. McKee would give the Rams not just a good backup but a QB to groom for the future which IMO won't be later than after the 2025 season at the very latest and maybe much sooner. He's a perfect fit for McVay's offense can make all the throws with accuracy and knows how to go through his progressions. He's as close as they can get to a rookie Stafford clone. If he drops into the low first round, do they move up and get him? I think they might.

Regardless, this team IMO can be a playoff team if they stay relatively healthy, especially at QB.

Should the Rams explore moving Van Jefferson?​

Back in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Rams used the 57th overall pick to select Van Jefferson out of the University of Florida. Jefferson, the son of former NFL receiver and current NFL receivers coach Shawn Jefferson, was a very polished prospect due to being raised by a father that played the position at the highest level.

Through three total seasons with the Rams, Jefferson has logged 93 receptions for 1,391 yards and 10 touchdowns. Most of those numbers came in his second season with the team, the year the Rams won the Super Bowl, as he tallied 50 receptions for 6 touchdowns after establishing himself as a downfield threat for the squad.

However, following a nagging knee injury that kept him out of a majority of training camp and the first six games of the season, Van Jefferson took a step back in production. Not only that, but he seemed to get outshined a little bit even after both Cooper Kupp and Allen Robinson went down with injuries, as both Tutu Atwell and Ben Skowronek stepped up to the plate and proved they were capable of making noise at the position.

With that being said, Van Jefferson is now entering his final year of his rookie contract with the Rams, meaning he will be eligible to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2023-2024 NFL season. Unless Jefferson has some sort of ridiculous season next year, I cannot see a world where the Rams would re-sign him, allowing Jefferson to seek the best deal possible elsewhere.

But, should the Rams let Jefferson walk for a late-round compensatory pick? Or, should the Rams try to move Jefferson for, let’s say, a third round or even a fourth round selection prior to the 2023-2024 season? Maybe they can even get a player for Jefferson instead of a pick but, regardless, the Rams should find a way to move on from Jefferson, and here is why:

BENNY SKOW AND TUTU EMERGENCE

Let’s be honest, no one expected 2021 7th round pick Ben Skowronek to be anything more than a depth piece/special teamer. However, Skowronek was forced to step into some big games in his rookie year, showing that he is capable of being a serviceable player in this league. Then, in 2022, Skowronek became a starter when he filled in for Van Jefferson early in the year, posting 23 receptions for 221 yards and a touchdown, stepping in nicely for an injured Jefferson.

Then, as the season progressed, Tutu Atwell finally got involved, averaging 78.2% of the offensive snaps in the final five games of last season. In those contests combined, Atwell had 12 receptions for 111 yards receiving along with a rushing touchdown, showing he’s fully capable of becoming an integral part of the L.A. offensive attack.

In my opinion, it makes sense for the Rams to at least explore moving on from Jefferson, especially considering the way Skowronek and Atwell stepped up last season. What do you folks think, should the Rams explore trading Van Jefferson?

Like his passion & knowledge.
It’s easy to look at The Rams in ALL different ways.
K. Demoff’s - ???
Mcvay ? -rebuild 2017? Login to view embedded media View: https://youtu.be/HuqSupQVWcc

The Rams have traded Cam Akers and a 2023 3rd round and 2025 5th round pick for Derrick Henry. Coach McVay explained, "The Rams organization thanks Cam Akers for his contributions and being able to face adversity and come out on top from last season's trade rumors. I like the competitiveness in Henry, and any opportunity to make the team better, you have to pull the trigger."

April 1st, etc. etc.

Just in case anyone cares and doesn't want to post in a 3-week-old thread.

XFL WEEK 7 SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, March 31

• Seattle Sea Dragons (4-2) at Arlington Renegades (3-3) — 7 p.m. ET | FX, ESPN+

SATURDAY, April 1

• San Antonio Brahmas (2-4) at Vegas Vipers (1-5) — 3 p.m. ET | ESPN, ESPN+
• D.C Defenders (6-0) at Orlando Guardians — 6 p.m. ET | ESPN, ESPN+

SUNDAY, April 2

• ST. Louis Battlehawks (4-2) at Houston Roughnecks (4-2) — 2 p.m. ET | ESPN, ESPN+

SEATTLE SEA DRAGONS (4-2) at ARLINGTON RENEGADES (3-3)​

Friday, 7 p.m. ET | FX, ESPN+

With a four-game winning streak, the Sea Dragons are rolling. Quarterback Ben DiNucci currently leads the XFL in passing yards (1,505) but is having issues protecting the football. Over the past two games, he has thrown four interceptions, the league's most in that span. The Renegades hope Perez will spark their struggling passing game. Through six weeks, Arlington quarterbacks have totaled the second-fewest passing yards (854), the fewest touchdown passes (four) and the second-most interceptions (seven). Perez should be an upgrade, he has more passing yards (906) and touchdown passes (eight) this entire season than the Renegades have as a team.

SAN ANTONIO BRAHMAS (2-4) at VEGAS VIPERS (1-5)

Saturday, 3 p.m. ET | ESPN, ESPN+

The Brahmas are looking to earn consecutive wins for the first time this season after beating the Renegades in Week 6 to keep their playoff hopes alive. A win this week is crucial for San Antonio, which is currently third in the South division. Its offense has been struggling, averaging 14.8 points per game, the second-fewest in the XFL. But this might not be an issue against the Vipers' defense, which allows 27 points per game, the second most. The Vipers have the league's second-worst record and will look to bounce back from a 29-6 loss to the Battlehawks. However, this might be difficult against the Brahmas' defense, which allows an XFL-low 14.6 points per game

D.C. DEFENDERS (6-0) at ORLANDO GUARDIANS (0-6)​

Saturday, 6 p.m. ET | ESPN, ESPN+

On paper, this is one of the biggest mismatches this season, as the undefeated Defenders are a 9.5-point favorite over the winless Guardians, the largest point spread in the XFL this season. The Defenders have the highest-scoring offense (28.5 points per game), while the Guardians allow the most points per game (29.6). Although the Guardians' past three losses have been within one score, they have been outscored 178-100 this season.

ST. LOUIS BATTLEHAWKS (4-2) at HOUSTON ROUGHNECKS (4-2)

Sunday, 2 p.m. ET | ESPN, ESPN+

Battlehawks quarterback AJ McCarron is second in passing yards (1,322) and first in touchdown passes (14). On the other side, Roughnecks quarterback Brandon Silvers is third in passing yards (1,300) and is tied for second in touchdown passes (11). However, the Roughnecks defense has struggled the past two weeks, allowing 58 points after giving up a league-low 55 in the first four weeks. If the Roughnecks can't fix their recent issues, the Battlehawks could light up the scoreboard, as they're second in total touchdowns (17).

These trades are “fair” to both teams under the Trade Value Chart (points in parentheses). Would you agree to any of them?

Rams send picks 2:36 (540), 3:77 (205) to Bears
Bears return picks 2:53 (370), 2:61 (292) and 4:103 (88)
TOTAL: Rams 745, Bears 750

Rams send picks 2:36 (540), 3:69 (245) and 6:182 (17) to Lions
Lions return picks 2:48 (420), 2:55 (350) and 5:148 (31)
TOTAL: Rams 802, Lions 801

Rams send picks 2:36 (540), 3:69 (245) and 3:77 (205)
Jets return picks 2:42 (480), 2:43 (470) and 5:143 (34.5)
Total: Rams 990, Jets 984.5

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This is a guy that some have called the best player in the draft. But when the Raiders won’t touch you…

How far does he fall, and is there a point where the Rams would even consider a move to grab him and line him up next to Aaron Donald?

(Yeah, I know the answers are probably “not very far” and “no,” but it’s fun to speculate!)

Per Jourdan's speculation:
Alaric Jackson will be team's starting LT...
Coleman Shelton is the team's best option at C...
Brian Allen likely a post June 1 cut...
Noteboom to G once he returns from injury...

Shoutout to those that have posted about this, wanted to post a link to the full EP. IMO worth a listen/watch

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Here's my mock of picks 1 through 36, including some projected trades (using trade value chart as a guide for value):

ROUND 1

1. Carolina Panthers: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

2. Houston Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

TRADE: Arizona trades pick 3 to Atlanta for pick 8, 2023 2nd round pick (#44) and 2024 second round pick

3. Atlanta Falcons: Anthony Richardson, QB Florida

4. Indianapolis Colts: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

5. Seattle Seahawks: Will Anderson, EDGE, Alabama

6. Detroit Lions: Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia

7. Las Vegas Raiders: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

8. Arizona Cardinals: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

9. Chicago Bears: Paris Johnson, Jr., OT, Ohio State

TRADE: Philadelphia trades pick 3 to Tampa Bay for pick 19, 2023 2nd round pick (#50)

10. Tampa Bay: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

TRADE: Tennessee trades pick #11 to L.A. Chargers for pick 21, 2023 2nd round pick (#54)

11: Los Angeles Chargers: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

12. Houston Texans: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

13. New York Jets: Miles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

14. New England Patriots: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

15. Green Bay Packers: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

16. Washington Commodes: Joey Porter, Jr., CB, Penn State

17. Pittsburgh Steelers: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

18. Detroit Lions: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

19. Philadelphia Eagles: Brian Bresee, DL, Clemson

20. Seattle Seahawks: John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota

21. Tennessee Titans: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee

22. Baltimore Ravens: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

23. Minnesota Vikings: Quentin Johnson, WR, TCU

24. Jacksonville Jaguars: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

25. New York Giants: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina

26. Dallas Cowboys: O'Cyrus Torrence, OG, Florida

27. Buffalo Bills: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

28: Cincinnati Bengals: Adetomiwa Adeboware, DE, Northwestern

29. New Orleans Saints: Dalton Kinkaid, TE, Utah

30. Philadelphia Eagles: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh

31: Kansas City Chiefs: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia


ROUND 2

32. Pittsburgh Steelers: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

33. Houston Texans: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

34. Arizona Cardinals: Mazi Smith, DT, Michigan

35. Indianapolis Colts: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State

36. Los Angeles Rams: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama

COMMENTS: I went into this with no expectations of who, in particular, would still be there at #36. I've been thinking Gibbs would be gone, but I really didn't see a clear spot for him in the Top 35. So, true to my current Rams draft board (and, not wanting to disappoint @Loyal), I went with Gibbs.

This exercise also showed me that, in my book, there are well over 36 players who I'd give a "first round grade" to. Its a deep draft, and the Rams will be in a position to get a very good player at #36. It also could be a reason to trade back a few spots (I'd prefer we not drop out of the Top 50) to get another pick or two.

Thoughts are welcome!

This is my fav, goes back to a long time ago.

The Tyger
BY WILLIAM BLAKE
Tyger Tyger, burning bright,
In the forests of the night;
What immortal hand or eye,
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?

In what distant deeps or skies.
Burnt the fire of thine eyes?
On what wings dare he aspire?
What the hand, dare seize the fire?

And what shoulder, & what art,
Could twist the sinews of thy heart?
And when thy heart began to beat,
What dread hand? & what dread feet?

What the hammer? what the chain,
In what furnace was thy brain?
What the anvil? what dread grasp,
Dare its deadly terrors clasp!

When the stars threw down their spears
And water'd heaven with their tears:
Did he smile his work to see?
Did he who made the Lamb make thee?

Tyger Tyger burning bright,
In the forests of the night:
What immortal hand or eye,
Dare frame thy fearful symmetry?

nighttrain

Posted a few comments of this but here's the full clip.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_CuNgWEhfE

1. Its Spring… when a young man’s fancy turns to… the NFL draft.

2. I’ll get to that in a moment, but first… I’ve been thinking about sustained success in the current NFL. Its pretty rare. You can, of course, point to the Patriots and, more recently, the Chiefs. What are the keys to achieving this? There are three things I think are at the top of the list.

3. First – an elite head coach. I believe we have that in Sean McVay (for how long, who knows?).

4. Second – a franchise QB. I believe we have that in Matthew Stafford (again, for how long?).

5. Third – enough draft success to be able to absorb the turnover that the salary cap imposes. This year’s draft will go a long way toward determining whether the Rams meet this criteria.

6. While we lack a first round pick, we have a nice array of picks. We should be able to add some quality starters and role players who will solidify the roster over the next 3-4 years.

7. My current projection for Pick No. 36 is Adetomiwa Adebawore, the athletically gifted DE/EDGE from Northwestern. Unfortunately, I’ve become less and less confident he’ll make it to Friday.

8. Staying with the pass rusher need, my alternates would be Felix Anudike-Uzoma (Kansas State), B.J. Ojulari (LSU) or Isaiah Foskey (Notre Dame).

9. One guy who I keep coming back to as a possible target, though, is Cody Mauch, the OL from North Dakota State. Look up his picture. He looks like the was cloned from Jack Lambert and an extra from the movie, Braveheart. He’s a nasty player who could be a long-term answer at LT.

10. Once the draft is done, I’m expecting some one year FA rentals. There are still some guys out there would could contribute.

11. I’m also still, on some level, hoping we find a way to fit OBJ into our plans. I’m all for a “trade” that results in OBJ in/Allen Robinson out (two transactions, of course).

12. Back on the issue of sustained success… the 3 of the Top 4 “dead cap” burdens are held by the last three NFC Champions (1. Bucs, 2. Eagles, 3. Rams). While its not an automatic side effect of building a contender, its not an uncommon one.

13. In the Rams’ case, its actually pretty remarkable that the Rams have had the success they have had despite (1) Gurley’s demise, and (2) the financial hit from trading Goff.

14. I read somewhere that the over/under for wins this year is 7.5. I’d take the over on that one without hesitation.

15. I’m intrigued by the prospect of taking a backup QB on Day 3 of the draft. Jaren Hall (BYU) seems like a guy who, though not a future starter, could be a safe option as a No. 2.
16. Could the Rams draft a PK and a P?

17. The Rams WILL take a RB before the end of the 5th round. It’s a deep class, so I’m excited to see who they pick.

18. I still like the way this organization is approaching things. You have to design a team with fear and ignorance.

19. No, AvengerRam, you hayseed! Its fear and ARROGANCE, not IGNORANCE!

20. I know… I just like it when you get all riled up.