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Get to know the Los Angeles Rams 2017 UDFA class
- By JKBOGEN
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 24 Replies
Get to know the Los Angeles Rams 2017 UDFA class
After the draft every team in the NFL sign undrafted free agents. It’s a period of time that lasts until all rosters are full. Some teams sign a quarter of a roster full of them while others sign a smaller amount. All the teams are different, the Rams signed 11 officially, now we will take you through each one and what they bring to the table for the Rams.
Ishmael Adams, CB, UCLA (5-foot-8, 186 pounds)
Adams is going to be known by many Rams fans since he is from UCLA. He is a former cornerback that switched to wide receiver and had minimal production. In all honesty, to me, he is a cornerback and a return man that is really going to have his work cut out for him to make the 53 man roster.
At his school’s pro day, he ran a 4.50 forty yard dash and 15 reps on the bench. He doesn’t have the greatest vertical at 27 inches and his broad jump doesn’t turn heads either at just over 9 feet. He racked up 138 tackles, 4.5 for a loss, a half sack, eight interceptions, three returned for touchdowns and 12 pass breakups at cornerback. As a returner Adams averaged a whopping 24.2 yards per kick return.
The local kid was born in Inglewood, California, his dad Stefon Adams was drafted in the third round of the 1985 NFL Draft as a defensive back. Ishmael Adams saw extremely limited amount of playing time in his freshman year that he ended up redshirting and soon to be graduating with a degree in Sociology.
Jared Collins, CB, Arkansas (5-foot-11, 176 pounds)
Collins is a speedy cornerback who has been the bearer of consistency. He ran a 4.47, jumped a 36.5 inch vertical and almost an 11 foot broad jump so he has the nice measurables. The consistency is shown by the fact he keeps his numbers within the neighborhood of each other in categories such as tackles and pass breakups.
The razorback corner actually had quite the scare in 2013 when he randomly collapsed on the sidelines in the game versus Southern Mississippi. Obviously judging by the fact that was almost four years ago…it’s safe to say he’s okay.
The real issue with Collins is the fact he is so light, he will either need to add weight or battle hard and prove he can contribute on special teams.
Kevin Davis, ILB, Colorado State (6-foot-2, 235 pounds)
Davis was wearing horns in college and will apparently wear horns in the NFL with the Rams too. He was a combine participant that likely got written off after he ran a 4.91 forty yard dash. Davis adds the ability to drop in man or zone coverage and does make the sneaky touchdown saving tackles on running backs that are shiftier and faster than he is.
He’s a two-year starter that doesn’t really have the physical power or strength to finish tackles against better competition at the next level. He lacks the instincts and has a hard time getting off blocks. Coming to a team that just drafted two linebackers and added one via free agency, there is a good chance he is going to have all the odds against him.
Davis finished his career playing in 49 games, accumulating 257 tackles, 27 tackles for a loss, seven sacks and two interceptions. He will receive his degree in Sociology after spending five years with Colorado State University.
Justin Davis, RB, USC (6-foot-1, 208 pounds)
Another Davis, but more well-known Davis is Justin Davis who hails from USC. Rams fans get their UCLA and USC guy. Not quite Fabian Moreau or JuJu Smith-Schuster, but still players from the colleges. In all honesty, I like Justin Davis.
Davis was considered a late round grade due to his fumbling issues and past injury concerns that held back a promising career. He finished with 2,465 yards rushing, 19 touchdowns, 46 receptions, 400 yards receiving and two receiving touchdowns. As many already know the Trojans used Ronald Jones as well and he was the more productive of the two.
Davis has good open field vision, he’s elusive and can make a man miss in space. He ran a 4.53 forty yard dash which is well above the league RB average and he benched 21 reps on the bench press which makes him one of the strongest backs in the class. The big problem with Davis is he will dance in the backfield too often and doesn’t take action when running the football like the other backs do. Despite all of that, Davis could make this roster with the new coaching staff and the unknown opinions on RB’s Malcolm Brown and Aaron Green.
Jake Eldrenkamp, G, Washington (6-foot-4, 302 pounds)
This is the mystery offensive lineman Les Snead mentioned that the Rams had been close to signing, but couldn’t announce it until it was official. The Rams had Eldrenkamp at a seventh round grade and the rest of the league had him around that grade too. He’s an athletic and thinner offensive lineman than many look for, but he also has the versatility to play center according to scouts.
Eldrenkamp was real good last year, he improved his pass protections, but the big knock on him was when he played against a good pass rush he struggled mightily. Eldrenkamp has the bend and smooth movement skills you like to see in an offensive lineman, but he has plenty to improve on.
This is a project that could make the 53 if Aaron Kromer has anything to say about it. Kromer might end up making this kid the starting center if he sees enough in his game. You are pretty much swinging for the fences on this kid, but without spending a pick on him the Rams will take that all day.
Anthony McMeans, C, New Mexico State (6-foot-1, 316 pounds)
McMeans has been working hard to keep his family life moving along without a hitch. In an interview with Arrowhead Addict, he explained that his lease is up in May and is trying everything he can to keep him, his girlfriend and his child taken care of. He has been getting up early each day working out in the gym and after that he’s been going to work to be able to support for him family.
One interesting thing of note is that McMeans went through his pro day with patella tendinitis he had suffered in his pro day training. He wasn’t sure until after the pro day. The reason it is interesting is because McMeans has been knocked for his lack of speed in which he ran a 5.74 forty yard dash, but there is a possibility that he could have ran much faster had he not been hurt.
Emory Hunt of Football Gameplan loves McMeans and had this to say about him:
“Anthony McMeans of New Mexico State plays the position with passion and intensity. He may even be a very good guard prospect as a pro. He’s proficient in all aspects of the running game and he’s also above average in pass protection. Now, he does have a few athleticism limitations as far as defending quickness is concerned and climbing to the second level is where you can see some of that, but I do believe if he loses about ten pounds, he can definitely overcome those limitations. I really like his footwork in regards to the running game and his short area footwork also helps him in the blitz pickup department”
McMeans in my opinion has a legit shot to make the roster and play center for the Rams.
Johnny Mundt, TE, Oregon (6-foot-4, 243 pounds)
Mundt is a player that was one of the Rams 30 pre-draft private visits. Apparently the Rams must have liked him a lot. He posted some solid numbers at his pro day, running a 4.74 forty, 30 inch vertical and 21 bench reps. Mundt was originally a top prospect coming to Oregon that suffered an injury and knocked him down the depth chart in favor of fellow undrafted free agent TE Pharoah Brown.
Mundt is coming into a TE group that is loaded with young talent in Gerald Everett, Tyler Higbee, Temarrick Hemingway, Travis Wilson and Bryce Williams who all have less than three years of NFL experience. Mundt also wasn’t overly productive in college finishing with only 683 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 23 games.
Folarin Orimolade, OLB, Dartmouth (6-foot-0, 240 pounds)
“Flo” as they call him, is the ultimate underdog at 6 feet. He ran a weak 40 yard dash at 4.92, but he had a nice vertical jump of 36 inches and benched 21 reps on the bench press. Flo isn’t just some undersized nobody though, he won the defensive player of the year award for the Ivy League and has a nice career.
He tallied 143 tackles, 35 tackles for a loss, eight pass breakups, 10 forced fumbles and 23.5 sacks in 40 games. Orimolade comes in and instantly brings experience as a captain and a man with his priorities straight as he already graduated two semesters early with a degree in economics.
He is going to have a tough time making the roster only because of how many linebackers are on the Rams squad right now, but he has talent off the edge and is quick footed with instincts like fellow Ram teammate and seventh-round pick Ejuan Price. He definitely doesn’t look like a 4.9 forty player on film that’s for sure.
Aarion Penton, CB, Missouri (5-foot-10, 198 pounds)
This Missouri Tiger is a ball hawk and makes that his mantra on the field. He doesn’t have great long speed at 4.61 in the forty, but he has soft hands that make interceptions come easy for him. He finished his career playing in 45 games and ending up with 153 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for a loss, 10 interceptions, one pick six and 31 pass breakups.
Penton is a lot like Gaines, but he lacks the cover skills against players inside the numbers that Gaines simply doesn’t. Penton has a hard time in one-on-one tackle opportunities and it shows by the amount of missed tackles you see on film.
With a cornerback room of: Trumaine Johnson, Kayvon Webster, E.J. Gaines, Mike Jordan, Troy Hill, Blake Countess, Ishmael Adams, Jared Collins, Nickell Robey-Coleman and Kevin Peterson. It’s likely Penton is going to have to claw his way onto the roster.
Casey Sayles, DT, Ohio (6-foot-4, 289 pounds)
Sayles is a defensive tackles that can rip through the line and rush the passer. He doesn’t have the long speed you would like to see at his weigh, but he’s quick and deceptively fast when chases quarterbacks to the sideline.
With the question marks on the defensive line and not knowing how many players the Rams plan to keep on the defensive line in their first year switched over to the 3-4 scheme. Sayles could have a chance to carve out a role in camp.
Sayles finished his collegiate career with 110 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for a loss, 11.5 sacks, 6 pass breakups and three fumble recoveries.
Dravious Wright, DB, NC State (5-foot-10, 194 pounds)
Wright is known for helmet-jarring hits during his time as a member of the Wolfpack. Wright has the combo safety/nickel corner type of build that will give him some value to keep around in camp.
He is likely going to have to prove himself on special teams since he doesn’t really have the skillset the other safeties on the roster possess.
After the draft every team in the NFL sign undrafted free agents. It’s a period of time that lasts until all rosters are full. Some teams sign a quarter of a roster full of them while others sign a smaller amount. All the teams are different, the Rams signed 11 officially, now we will take you through each one and what they bring to the table for the Rams.
Ishmael Adams, CB, UCLA (5-foot-8, 186 pounds)
Adams is going to be known by many Rams fans since he is from UCLA. He is a former cornerback that switched to wide receiver and had minimal production. In all honesty, to me, he is a cornerback and a return man that is really going to have his work cut out for him to make the 53 man roster.
At his school’s pro day, he ran a 4.50 forty yard dash and 15 reps on the bench. He doesn’t have the greatest vertical at 27 inches and his broad jump doesn’t turn heads either at just over 9 feet. He racked up 138 tackles, 4.5 for a loss, a half sack, eight interceptions, three returned for touchdowns and 12 pass breakups at cornerback. As a returner Adams averaged a whopping 24.2 yards per kick return.
The local kid was born in Inglewood, California, his dad Stefon Adams was drafted in the third round of the 1985 NFL Draft as a defensive back. Ishmael Adams saw extremely limited amount of playing time in his freshman year that he ended up redshirting and soon to be graduating with a degree in Sociology.
Jared Collins, CB, Arkansas (5-foot-11, 176 pounds)
Collins is a speedy cornerback who has been the bearer of consistency. He ran a 4.47, jumped a 36.5 inch vertical and almost an 11 foot broad jump so he has the nice measurables. The consistency is shown by the fact he keeps his numbers within the neighborhood of each other in categories such as tackles and pass breakups.
The razorback corner actually had quite the scare in 2013 when he randomly collapsed on the sidelines in the game versus Southern Mississippi. Obviously judging by the fact that was almost four years ago…it’s safe to say he’s okay.
The real issue with Collins is the fact he is so light, he will either need to add weight or battle hard and prove he can contribute on special teams.
Kevin Davis, ILB, Colorado State (6-foot-2, 235 pounds)
Davis was wearing horns in college and will apparently wear horns in the NFL with the Rams too. He was a combine participant that likely got written off after he ran a 4.91 forty yard dash. Davis adds the ability to drop in man or zone coverage and does make the sneaky touchdown saving tackles on running backs that are shiftier and faster than he is.
He’s a two-year starter that doesn’t really have the physical power or strength to finish tackles against better competition at the next level. He lacks the instincts and has a hard time getting off blocks. Coming to a team that just drafted two linebackers and added one via free agency, there is a good chance he is going to have all the odds against him.
Davis finished his career playing in 49 games, accumulating 257 tackles, 27 tackles for a loss, seven sacks and two interceptions. He will receive his degree in Sociology after spending five years with Colorado State University.
Justin Davis, RB, USC (6-foot-1, 208 pounds)
Another Davis, but more well-known Davis is Justin Davis who hails from USC. Rams fans get their UCLA and USC guy. Not quite Fabian Moreau or JuJu Smith-Schuster, but still players from the colleges. In all honesty, I like Justin Davis.
Davis was considered a late round grade due to his fumbling issues and past injury concerns that held back a promising career. He finished with 2,465 yards rushing, 19 touchdowns, 46 receptions, 400 yards receiving and two receiving touchdowns. As many already know the Trojans used Ronald Jones as well and he was the more productive of the two.
Davis has good open field vision, he’s elusive and can make a man miss in space. He ran a 4.53 forty yard dash which is well above the league RB average and he benched 21 reps on the bench press which makes him one of the strongest backs in the class. The big problem with Davis is he will dance in the backfield too often and doesn’t take action when running the football like the other backs do. Despite all of that, Davis could make this roster with the new coaching staff and the unknown opinions on RB’s Malcolm Brown and Aaron Green.
Jake Eldrenkamp, G, Washington (6-foot-4, 302 pounds)
This is the mystery offensive lineman Les Snead mentioned that the Rams had been close to signing, but couldn’t announce it until it was official. The Rams had Eldrenkamp at a seventh round grade and the rest of the league had him around that grade too. He’s an athletic and thinner offensive lineman than many look for, but he also has the versatility to play center according to scouts.
Eldrenkamp was real good last year, he improved his pass protections, but the big knock on him was when he played against a good pass rush he struggled mightily. Eldrenkamp has the bend and smooth movement skills you like to see in an offensive lineman, but he has plenty to improve on.
This is a project that could make the 53 if Aaron Kromer has anything to say about it. Kromer might end up making this kid the starting center if he sees enough in his game. You are pretty much swinging for the fences on this kid, but without spending a pick on him the Rams will take that all day.
Anthony McMeans, C, New Mexico State (6-foot-1, 316 pounds)
McMeans has been working hard to keep his family life moving along without a hitch. In an interview with Arrowhead Addict, he explained that his lease is up in May and is trying everything he can to keep him, his girlfriend and his child taken care of. He has been getting up early each day working out in the gym and after that he’s been going to work to be able to support for him family.
One interesting thing of note is that McMeans went through his pro day with patella tendinitis he had suffered in his pro day training. He wasn’t sure until after the pro day. The reason it is interesting is because McMeans has been knocked for his lack of speed in which he ran a 5.74 forty yard dash, but there is a possibility that he could have ran much faster had he not been hurt.
Emory Hunt of Football Gameplan loves McMeans and had this to say about him:
“Anthony McMeans of New Mexico State plays the position with passion and intensity. He may even be a very good guard prospect as a pro. He’s proficient in all aspects of the running game and he’s also above average in pass protection. Now, he does have a few athleticism limitations as far as defending quickness is concerned and climbing to the second level is where you can see some of that, but I do believe if he loses about ten pounds, he can definitely overcome those limitations. I really like his footwork in regards to the running game and his short area footwork also helps him in the blitz pickup department”
McMeans in my opinion has a legit shot to make the roster and play center for the Rams.
Johnny Mundt, TE, Oregon (6-foot-4, 243 pounds)
Mundt is a player that was one of the Rams 30 pre-draft private visits. Apparently the Rams must have liked him a lot. He posted some solid numbers at his pro day, running a 4.74 forty, 30 inch vertical and 21 bench reps. Mundt was originally a top prospect coming to Oregon that suffered an injury and knocked him down the depth chart in favor of fellow undrafted free agent TE Pharoah Brown.
Mundt is coming into a TE group that is loaded with young talent in Gerald Everett, Tyler Higbee, Temarrick Hemingway, Travis Wilson and Bryce Williams who all have less than three years of NFL experience. Mundt also wasn’t overly productive in college finishing with only 683 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 23 games.
Folarin Orimolade, OLB, Dartmouth (6-foot-0, 240 pounds)
“Flo” as they call him, is the ultimate underdog at 6 feet. He ran a weak 40 yard dash at 4.92, but he had a nice vertical jump of 36 inches and benched 21 reps on the bench press. Flo isn’t just some undersized nobody though, he won the defensive player of the year award for the Ivy League and has a nice career.
He tallied 143 tackles, 35 tackles for a loss, eight pass breakups, 10 forced fumbles and 23.5 sacks in 40 games. Orimolade comes in and instantly brings experience as a captain and a man with his priorities straight as he already graduated two semesters early with a degree in economics.
He is going to have a tough time making the roster only because of how many linebackers are on the Rams squad right now, but he has talent off the edge and is quick footed with instincts like fellow Ram teammate and seventh-round pick Ejuan Price. He definitely doesn’t look like a 4.9 forty player on film that’s for sure.
Aarion Penton, CB, Missouri (5-foot-10, 198 pounds)
This Missouri Tiger is a ball hawk and makes that his mantra on the field. He doesn’t have great long speed at 4.61 in the forty, but he has soft hands that make interceptions come easy for him. He finished his career playing in 45 games and ending up with 153 total tackles, 7.5 tackles for a loss, 10 interceptions, one pick six and 31 pass breakups.
Penton is a lot like Gaines, but he lacks the cover skills against players inside the numbers that Gaines simply doesn’t. Penton has a hard time in one-on-one tackle opportunities and it shows by the amount of missed tackles you see on film.
With a cornerback room of: Trumaine Johnson, Kayvon Webster, E.J. Gaines, Mike Jordan, Troy Hill, Blake Countess, Ishmael Adams, Jared Collins, Nickell Robey-Coleman and Kevin Peterson. It’s likely Penton is going to have to claw his way onto the roster.
Casey Sayles, DT, Ohio (6-foot-4, 289 pounds)
Sayles is a defensive tackles that can rip through the line and rush the passer. He doesn’t have the long speed you would like to see at his weigh, but he’s quick and deceptively fast when chases quarterbacks to the sideline.
With the question marks on the defensive line and not knowing how many players the Rams plan to keep on the defensive line in their first year switched over to the 3-4 scheme. Sayles could have a chance to carve out a role in camp.
Sayles finished his collegiate career with 110 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for a loss, 11.5 sacks, 6 pass breakups and three fumble recoveries.
Dravious Wright, DB, NC State (5-foot-10, 194 pounds)
Wright is known for helmet-jarring hits during his time as a member of the Wolfpack. Wright has the combo safety/nickel corner type of build that will give him some value to keep around in camp.
He is likely going to have to prove himself on special teams since he doesn’t really have the skillset the other safeties on the roster possess.
For those that didn't agree with the Rams Draft Picks
- By Florida_Ram
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 26 Replies
Please fill in the blanks so I can see what your thinking was and just how bad McVay and company fouled this up.....
#37? ___ You have this pick because you didn't trade down and selected Lamp or someone else.
#69? ___
#91 x __Not available to you because no trade down with the #37 pick
#117? ___
#125? ___
#189? ___
#206? ___
#234? ___
#37? ___ You have this pick because you didn't trade down and selected Lamp or someone else.
#69? ___
#91 x __Not available to you because no trade down with the #37 pick
#117? ___
#125? ___
#189? ___
#206? ___
#234? ___
Photos of our New Rams!!
- By DaveFan'51
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 5 Replies
Just for fun our Draft class and UDFA's!!
Now we need to picture them doing there stuff in Rams Uni's!!
Now we need to picture them doing there stuff in Rams Uni's!!
Some Tweets from Hammond
- By WestCoastRam
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 8 Replies
- Rich Hammond
Both of the UDFA free agents the Rams signed at OL, Jake Eldrenkamp and Anthony McMeans, will get a chance to work at center.
Rich HammondVerified account@Rich_Hammond 55m55 minutes ago
It's a best-case scenario, clearly, but trio of Woods (hands/blocking), Kupp (toughness) and Reynolds (speed/length) isn't bad at all.
Rich HammondVerified account@Rich_Hammond 58m58 minutes ago
Kupp/Reynolds give Rams options going forward at WR. If they work out, Tavon can be traded next year for a cap hit of only about $1 million.
- Rich HammondVerified account@Rich_Hammond 15h15 hours ago
Of the Rams' UDFA signings, McMeans is a center and Eldrenkamp has been a guard.
-
Poll
Breaking down the Rams day three draft selections and final draft grade
- By JKBOGEN
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 19 Replies
Breaking down the Rams day three draft selections and final draft grade
https://www.downtownrams.com/single...-three-draft-selections-and-final-draft-grade
The draft has come and gone so here is our breakdown of the last day of the NFL draft for the Rams.
4th round, 117th overall pick (via Chicago Bears): Josh Reynolds, WR, Texas A&M
The Rams kicked off their day three by trading down with the Bears to acquire another sixth round pick (which they then traded away…) the Bears took a stud safety in Eddie Jackson, but the Rams decided to go offensive minded and gave Jared Goff another weapon in Josh Reynolds. Reynolds is a 6-foot-3 and 194 pound big-play receiver that gives the Rams a field stretcher and red zone target. The Rams punted for more yards than they accumulated on offense last season so this shouldn’t surprise anyone.
Reynolds was not my favorite wide receiver available and I have my reservations with him, but the Rams are starting to really build a nice group of receivers and this pick allows Reynolds to come in and likely be used on the outside where he should be as opposed to going to a team that would have a hard time finding playing time for him. There is a good chance this opens the door for a trade of one of the Rams receivers on the roster.
Looking at what Reynolds can do, he has around the average speed you want in an NFL starting WR, he’s got a 37 inch vertical jump and jumped a 123 inch broad jump. He tracks the ball just as well as anyone in this class so that right there could make him the best vertical threat at WR for the Rams, he is great when contested and he made some of the most insane circus catches you will see. So what’s wrong with him?
I feel as though his film at Texas A&M was inconsistent, he does need to add weight, he has a hard time getting off the line of scrimmage and really needs to work on his footwork. Overall the Rams got a good football player that will be able to make an impact in some capacity in 2017, but he could be more of a sub package/red zone target for his rookie year, but his upside is exciting and could be a starting WR for the Rams for years to come.
Grade: (B+) I really like this pick and of course I had other WR’s higher on my board, but you are getting a good player that has an exciting amount of upside to grow his role each year.
Who I would have taken: George Kittle, TE, Iowa
Player Comparison: (Mohammad Sanu, WR, Atlanta Falcons) I like this comparison because both guys are taller receivers that have some nice speed and excel at tracking the long ball.
Other players passed up: WR Mack Hollins, North Carolina, TE George Kittle, Iowa, G Nico Siragusa, San Diego State, S Montae Nicholson, Michigan State, LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Tennessee
4th round, 125th overall pick (via New York Jets): Samson Ebukam, OLB, Eastern Washington
After trading down and acquiring an extra sixth round pick, the Rams were impatient and jumped right back up the board to select a guy they had targeted in Samson Ebukam. He is the second Eastern Washington player to come to the Rams. The pick is not what I know, but I was a little disappointed that the Rams traded that pick away to select Ebukam. They are probably going to make me eat my words on that too.
Getting down to the pick, Ebukam is likely going to fit perfectly, right in Wade Phillips defense as a rotational pass rushing linebacker. The Nigerian born edge rusher tested incredibly well at his pro day. Ran a 4.5 flat forty, had a 39 inch vertical jump, 24 bench reps, almost an 11 foot broad jump at 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds. Clearly Wade was banging the table for this man as well as LB coach Joe Barry. He is an extremely twitchy pass rusher that shows a first step explosion that will scare offenses around the NFL. He has an exceptional work ethic and football IQ that will allow him to contribute instantly. Ebukam has the ability to develop into a complete linebacker. He’s also going to be welcomed to Coach Bones’ special teams unit.
The only issues with Ebukam are that he’s raw if you want him to start that may not be the best idea. He needs to develop more pass rush moves and work on disengaging blocks quicker.
Grade: (B-) This grade was a B, but I knock it down a peg because of the trade. Ebukam fits what the Rams are trying to do on defense and this will likely help after Connor Barwin’s one-year deal is up.
Who would I have taken: Blair Brown, ILB, Ohio
Player Comparison: (Dekoda Watson with a hint of DeMarcus Ware) Freakish athletes compare to freakish athletes. Watson is the more realistic comparison, but you can see why Wade wanted Ebukam. He is likely to start out like a rotational guy such as Watson, but could take on that DeMarcus Ware role down the line.
Other players passed up: ILB Blair Brown, Ohio, LB Jayon Brown, UCLA, G Jordan Morgan, Kutztown, CB Damontae Kazee, San Diego State, DE Avery Moss, Youngstown State, ILB Anthony Walker, Northwestern
6th round, 189th overall pick: Tanzel Smart, DT, Tulane
I really like this pick of Tanzel Smart. All you hear about Smart is that he just loves football. He is a passionate player and a high quality character guy. Smart is a one gap penetrator that will fit right into the defensive line rotation. Smart is not the desire size you would want necessarily, but he wins with his quickness off the line. He uses his hands well and is able to rip off of blocks easier than many players at his position in this draft.
With that being said, he does has his issues with the lack of competition at Tulane, his lack of speed and length. He could probably start if need be, but he seems like a really good rotational player for the Rams. With the new scheme change the Rams need for a defensive tackle has been identified and they attack that need with Smart.
Grade: (B+) This is a round or two lower than I had him which makes this a steal in my opinion. I think he fills a need as a depth defensive lineman and has that quickness that allows him to play defensive tackle and end if need be.
Who would I have taken: JoJo Mathis, OLB, Washington
Player Comparison: (Grady Jarrett, DT, Atlanta Falcons) Both are one gap penetrations that have the “undersized” label and extremely quick feet.
Other players passed up: CB Jeremy Clark, Michigan, LB Jordan Evans, Oklahoma, S Xavier Woods, Louisiana Tech, C Chase Roullier, Wyoming, TE Bucky Hodges, Virginia Tech
6th round, 206th overall pick (via Miami Dolphins): Sam Rogers, FB, Virginia Tech
It’s not hard to see why the Rams liked this guy and made the pick. Sam Rogers instantly comes in and can be the lead blocker for a struggling RB in Todd Gurley, he is a versatile threat running the ball, catching the ball and of course blocking. The Rams haven’t had a fullback like him in a long time, but Rogers to me is a great pick here late in the draft. This is the best fullback in the entire draft class who just refuses to go down and encourages having the ball in his hands. Another player Coach Bones will love on special teams, he’s just an aggressive and high energy guy that will impact the locker room early on.
What’s not to like? Well, to be honest, the only knock on him is his speed, but he has the quickness and agility to make sneaky plays on the field.
Grade: (A) He’s the best pick as far as value goes for the whole draft. He is going to be their security blanket and likely he’s the reason they didn’t draft another TE after Everett.
Who would I have taken: Kyle Sloter, QB, Northern Colorado
Player Comparison: (Kyle Juszczyk, FB, San Francisco 49ers) Both of them can be blockers, ball-carriers and pass catchers. The versatility factor adds a new dynamic to the offense. Juszczyk just made some serious cash with his deal in San Fran. He’s a little faster than Rogers, but Rogers is just like him in many ways.
Other players passed up: S Rudy Ford, Auburn, OT Justin Senior, Mississippi State, OT Connor McDermott, UCLA, WR Robert Davis, Georgia State, QB Brad Kaaya, Miami, S Leon McQuay III, USC, DT Elijah Qualls, Washington, CB Jalen Myrick, Minnesota
7th round, 234th overall (via Baltimore Ravens): Ejuan Price, OLB, Pittsburgh
This was a fitting pick when you already have an undersized Pittsburgh player in Aaron Donald, might as well try your lucky with another in Ejuan Price right? He has been bothered by injuries, but his tape is littered with elite college production. He doesn’t have the long speed that many scouts wanted and factor that in with his injuries, that is why he fell into the seventh round.
Price brings a tenacity about him to the field that will fit right in a real nice linebacker rotation with newly drafted linebacker Samson Ebukam. At 5-foot-11 and 241 pounds he found himself really only a fit in the 3-4 type of outside linebacker scheme.
Grade: (B) He can come in and work hard right away as a special teamer and a rotational pass rusher. Wade is going to do wonders for him. The Rams now have a massive amount of linebackers.
Who would I have taken: Javancy Jones, OLB, Jackson State
Player Comparison: (Elvis Dumervil, OLB) Like Dumervil, Price ran a bad 40 time and was undersized so the scouts underrated him. Price may not be Dumervil, but they play the same type of game and the measurable are identical.
Other players passed up: OLB Javancy Jones, Jackson State, OLB Caroll Phillips, Illinois, C Kyle Fuller, Baylor, WR Noah Brown, Ohio State, WR Isaiah Ford, Virginia Tech, WR Malachi Dupre, LSU
Final Rams 2017 NFL Draft Grade: B-
After some disappointment with one of the picks, all in all this is a good draft for the Rams. They got better by adding three pass catchers Goff will be using a ton: Gerald Everett, Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds. The Rams even drafted a fullback and the best FB at that in Sam Rogers who will come in and give Goff an outlet that can be a security blanket receiver, a running back and a tenacious blocker. Moving away from offense the Rams drafted a freakish athlete and a not so freakish athlete to go into their linebacker rotation. Both men can contribute in some capacity right away. The Rams in my personal opinion reached on John Johnson who will likely end up being a great player since Wade Phillips knows what he is doing. Lastly, Tanzel Smart is a great pick that will add a really good one-gap penetrator to the defensive line rotation. I believe this draft could have been better, but it still was a good draft for the Rams.
What are your thoughts Rams fans? How did we do? Let us know!
https://www.downtownrams.com/single...-three-draft-selections-and-final-draft-grade
The draft has come and gone so here is our breakdown of the last day of the NFL draft for the Rams.
4th round, 117th overall pick (via Chicago Bears): Josh Reynolds, WR, Texas A&M
The Rams kicked off their day three by trading down with the Bears to acquire another sixth round pick (which they then traded away…) the Bears took a stud safety in Eddie Jackson, but the Rams decided to go offensive minded and gave Jared Goff another weapon in Josh Reynolds. Reynolds is a 6-foot-3 and 194 pound big-play receiver that gives the Rams a field stretcher and red zone target. The Rams punted for more yards than they accumulated on offense last season so this shouldn’t surprise anyone.
Reynolds was not my favorite wide receiver available and I have my reservations with him, but the Rams are starting to really build a nice group of receivers and this pick allows Reynolds to come in and likely be used on the outside where he should be as opposed to going to a team that would have a hard time finding playing time for him. There is a good chance this opens the door for a trade of one of the Rams receivers on the roster.
Looking at what Reynolds can do, he has around the average speed you want in an NFL starting WR, he’s got a 37 inch vertical jump and jumped a 123 inch broad jump. He tracks the ball just as well as anyone in this class so that right there could make him the best vertical threat at WR for the Rams, he is great when contested and he made some of the most insane circus catches you will see. So what’s wrong with him?
I feel as though his film at Texas A&M was inconsistent, he does need to add weight, he has a hard time getting off the line of scrimmage and really needs to work on his footwork. Overall the Rams got a good football player that will be able to make an impact in some capacity in 2017, but he could be more of a sub package/red zone target for his rookie year, but his upside is exciting and could be a starting WR for the Rams for years to come.
Grade: (B+) I really like this pick and of course I had other WR’s higher on my board, but you are getting a good player that has an exciting amount of upside to grow his role each year.
Who I would have taken: George Kittle, TE, Iowa
Player Comparison: (Mohammad Sanu, WR, Atlanta Falcons) I like this comparison because both guys are taller receivers that have some nice speed and excel at tracking the long ball.
Other players passed up: WR Mack Hollins, North Carolina, TE George Kittle, Iowa, G Nico Siragusa, San Diego State, S Montae Nicholson, Michigan State, LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Tennessee
4th round, 125th overall pick (via New York Jets): Samson Ebukam, OLB, Eastern Washington
After trading down and acquiring an extra sixth round pick, the Rams were impatient and jumped right back up the board to select a guy they had targeted in Samson Ebukam. He is the second Eastern Washington player to come to the Rams. The pick is not what I know, but I was a little disappointed that the Rams traded that pick away to select Ebukam. They are probably going to make me eat my words on that too.
Getting down to the pick, Ebukam is likely going to fit perfectly, right in Wade Phillips defense as a rotational pass rushing linebacker. The Nigerian born edge rusher tested incredibly well at his pro day. Ran a 4.5 flat forty, had a 39 inch vertical jump, 24 bench reps, almost an 11 foot broad jump at 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds. Clearly Wade was banging the table for this man as well as LB coach Joe Barry. He is an extremely twitchy pass rusher that shows a first step explosion that will scare offenses around the NFL. He has an exceptional work ethic and football IQ that will allow him to contribute instantly. Ebukam has the ability to develop into a complete linebacker. He’s also going to be welcomed to Coach Bones’ special teams unit.
The only issues with Ebukam are that he’s raw if you want him to start that may not be the best idea. He needs to develop more pass rush moves and work on disengaging blocks quicker.
Grade: (B-) This grade was a B, but I knock it down a peg because of the trade. Ebukam fits what the Rams are trying to do on defense and this will likely help after Connor Barwin’s one-year deal is up.
Who would I have taken: Blair Brown, ILB, Ohio
Player Comparison: (Dekoda Watson with a hint of DeMarcus Ware) Freakish athletes compare to freakish athletes. Watson is the more realistic comparison, but you can see why Wade wanted Ebukam. He is likely to start out like a rotational guy such as Watson, but could take on that DeMarcus Ware role down the line.
Other players passed up: ILB Blair Brown, Ohio, LB Jayon Brown, UCLA, G Jordan Morgan, Kutztown, CB Damontae Kazee, San Diego State, DE Avery Moss, Youngstown State, ILB Anthony Walker, Northwestern
6th round, 189th overall pick: Tanzel Smart, DT, Tulane
I really like this pick of Tanzel Smart. All you hear about Smart is that he just loves football. He is a passionate player and a high quality character guy. Smart is a one gap penetrator that will fit right into the defensive line rotation. Smart is not the desire size you would want necessarily, but he wins with his quickness off the line. He uses his hands well and is able to rip off of blocks easier than many players at his position in this draft.
With that being said, he does has his issues with the lack of competition at Tulane, his lack of speed and length. He could probably start if need be, but he seems like a really good rotational player for the Rams. With the new scheme change the Rams need for a defensive tackle has been identified and they attack that need with Smart.
Grade: (B+) This is a round or two lower than I had him which makes this a steal in my opinion. I think he fills a need as a depth defensive lineman and has that quickness that allows him to play defensive tackle and end if need be.
Who would I have taken: JoJo Mathis, OLB, Washington
Player Comparison: (Grady Jarrett, DT, Atlanta Falcons) Both are one gap penetrations that have the “undersized” label and extremely quick feet.
Other players passed up: CB Jeremy Clark, Michigan, LB Jordan Evans, Oklahoma, S Xavier Woods, Louisiana Tech, C Chase Roullier, Wyoming, TE Bucky Hodges, Virginia Tech
6th round, 206th overall pick (via Miami Dolphins): Sam Rogers, FB, Virginia Tech
It’s not hard to see why the Rams liked this guy and made the pick. Sam Rogers instantly comes in and can be the lead blocker for a struggling RB in Todd Gurley, he is a versatile threat running the ball, catching the ball and of course blocking. The Rams haven’t had a fullback like him in a long time, but Rogers to me is a great pick here late in the draft. This is the best fullback in the entire draft class who just refuses to go down and encourages having the ball in his hands. Another player Coach Bones will love on special teams, he’s just an aggressive and high energy guy that will impact the locker room early on.
What’s not to like? Well, to be honest, the only knock on him is his speed, but he has the quickness and agility to make sneaky plays on the field.
Grade: (A) He’s the best pick as far as value goes for the whole draft. He is going to be their security blanket and likely he’s the reason they didn’t draft another TE after Everett.
Who would I have taken: Kyle Sloter, QB, Northern Colorado
Player Comparison: (Kyle Juszczyk, FB, San Francisco 49ers) Both of them can be blockers, ball-carriers and pass catchers. The versatility factor adds a new dynamic to the offense. Juszczyk just made some serious cash with his deal in San Fran. He’s a little faster than Rogers, but Rogers is just like him in many ways.
Other players passed up: S Rudy Ford, Auburn, OT Justin Senior, Mississippi State, OT Connor McDermott, UCLA, WR Robert Davis, Georgia State, QB Brad Kaaya, Miami, S Leon McQuay III, USC, DT Elijah Qualls, Washington, CB Jalen Myrick, Minnesota
7th round, 234th overall (via Baltimore Ravens): Ejuan Price, OLB, Pittsburgh
This was a fitting pick when you already have an undersized Pittsburgh player in Aaron Donald, might as well try your lucky with another in Ejuan Price right? He has been bothered by injuries, but his tape is littered with elite college production. He doesn’t have the long speed that many scouts wanted and factor that in with his injuries, that is why he fell into the seventh round.
Price brings a tenacity about him to the field that will fit right in a real nice linebacker rotation with newly drafted linebacker Samson Ebukam. At 5-foot-11 and 241 pounds he found himself really only a fit in the 3-4 type of outside linebacker scheme.
Grade: (B) He can come in and work hard right away as a special teamer and a rotational pass rusher. Wade is going to do wonders for him. The Rams now have a massive amount of linebackers.
Who would I have taken: Javancy Jones, OLB, Jackson State
Player Comparison: (Elvis Dumervil, OLB) Like Dumervil, Price ran a bad 40 time and was undersized so the scouts underrated him. Price may not be Dumervil, but they play the same type of game and the measurable are identical.
Other players passed up: OLB Javancy Jones, Jackson State, OLB Caroll Phillips, Illinois, C Kyle Fuller, Baylor, WR Noah Brown, Ohio State, WR Isaiah Ford, Virginia Tech, WR Malachi Dupre, LSU
Final Rams 2017 NFL Draft Grade: B-
After some disappointment with one of the picks, all in all this is a good draft for the Rams. They got better by adding three pass catchers Goff will be using a ton: Gerald Everett, Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds. The Rams even drafted a fullback and the best FB at that in Sam Rogers who will come in and give Goff an outlet that can be a security blanket receiver, a running back and a tenacious blocker. Moving away from offense the Rams drafted a freakish athlete and a not so freakish athlete to go into their linebacker rotation. Both men can contribute in some capacity right away. The Rams in my personal opinion reached on John Johnson who will likely end up being a great player since Wade Phillips knows what he is doing. Lastly, Tanzel Smart is a great pick that will add a really good one-gap penetrator to the defensive line rotation. I believe this draft could have been better, but it still was a good draft for the Rams.
What are your thoughts Rams fans? How did we do? Let us know!
Weird NFL World ... Post Draft ..
- By DaveFan'51
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 8 Replies
Something very surprising to me, after the Draft, the Bills announced today, they are Firing there GM Whaley! Wild!
Thoughts!?!
Thoughts!?!
Draft Grade? Incomplete. But, here's my take
- By Memphis Ram
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 98 Replies
Don't visit or post much nowadays, but hey the draft has always been my baby.
First of all, I understand that I am not privy to the thoughts or beliefs of what the current staff sees in it's personnel (current or draftable). Plus, I also understand that I have no idea where any of these guys would have been selected if the Rams had not selected them when they did, but here goes:
Rams Pick #44: TE Gerald Everett
I really believe that Everett is going to be a fine addition to the team. However, the guy was only 227 lbs. at the Senior Bowl, added weight for the combine, and has very small hands (8 1/2). Now, no one knows for sure, but I find it highly unlikely that he wouldn't have still been on the board in the 3rd round (BTW, while they didn't get him, I hope that they at least attempted to re-aquire Ian Seau from the Bills in that trade down as I believe that he would be a nice fit as an OLB in the new defense).
My Pick #37: OL Forrest Lamp
IMO, the Rams should have stayed put, taken OL Forrest Lamp, giggled all the way to pick #69 in the 3rd round and then selected Gerald Everett there.
Pick #69 Cooper Kupp
Another good player who should be a fine addition. However, for all the accolades many provide, I can't help but to see a slightly more refined slot WR like Austin Pettis. In fact, their combine workout numbers are even very similiar (though Pettis bests him just slightly). With a slot TE in Everett already selected and slot guys like Pharaoh Cooper & Bradley Marquez already on the roster, I would have passed on Kupp. Shoot, Pettis is still young and could probably be had on a free agent deal for competition, if he's up to it.
My Pick #69: : TE Gerald Everett or OLB Jordan Wills
As stated earlier, I really believe that Everett would have still been on the board at this selection and I would have taken him here. But, if not, I would have selected Kansas State OLB Jordan Wills, a high motor physical freak who is bigger than the players the Rams selected later at the position.
Of course, staying put and selecting Lamp would mean no Josh Johnson and other changes down the line, but I generally liked the rest of the draft. In fact, I liked their day 3 selections (4th round and below) more than I have at any time that I can remember.
I really like the Ekbukam and Price selections. The switch to the 3-4 allows for the team to gamble on the potential rush OLB gems who have been much easier to find that quality DEs for some time now. Tanzel Smart and a healthly Louis Trinca-Pasat should present a decent roster battle to backup Donald. Reynolds provides the team a much needed downfield threat especially if Austin falters. And I've been hoping that this team better utilized the FB position for some time now. That said, I have to admit that hope included a bigger and faster version. But maybe with so many teams going with smaller LBs nowadays he'll work out.
In the end, Goff is still the key.
First of all, I understand that I am not privy to the thoughts or beliefs of what the current staff sees in it's personnel (current or draftable). Plus, I also understand that I have no idea where any of these guys would have been selected if the Rams had not selected them when they did, but here goes:
Rams Pick #44: TE Gerald Everett
I really believe that Everett is going to be a fine addition to the team. However, the guy was only 227 lbs. at the Senior Bowl, added weight for the combine, and has very small hands (8 1/2). Now, no one knows for sure, but I find it highly unlikely that he wouldn't have still been on the board in the 3rd round (BTW, while they didn't get him, I hope that they at least attempted to re-aquire Ian Seau from the Bills in that trade down as I believe that he would be a nice fit as an OLB in the new defense).
My Pick #37: OL Forrest Lamp
IMO, the Rams should have stayed put, taken OL Forrest Lamp, giggled all the way to pick #69 in the 3rd round and then selected Gerald Everett there.
Pick #69 Cooper Kupp
Another good player who should be a fine addition. However, for all the accolades many provide, I can't help but to see a slightly more refined slot WR like Austin Pettis. In fact, their combine workout numbers are even very similiar (though Pettis bests him just slightly). With a slot TE in Everett already selected and slot guys like Pharaoh Cooper & Bradley Marquez already on the roster, I would have passed on Kupp. Shoot, Pettis is still young and could probably be had on a free agent deal for competition, if he's up to it.
My Pick #69: : TE Gerald Everett or OLB Jordan Wills
As stated earlier, I really believe that Everett would have still been on the board at this selection and I would have taken him here. But, if not, I would have selected Kansas State OLB Jordan Wills, a high motor physical freak who is bigger than the players the Rams selected later at the position.
Of course, staying put and selecting Lamp would mean no Josh Johnson and other changes down the line, but I generally liked the rest of the draft. In fact, I liked their day 3 selections (4th round and below) more than I have at any time that I can remember.
I really like the Ekbukam and Price selections. The switch to the 3-4 allows for the team to gamble on the potential rush OLB gems who have been much easier to find that quality DEs for some time now. Tanzel Smart and a healthly Louis Trinca-Pasat should present a decent roster battle to backup Donald. Reynolds provides the team a much needed downfield threat especially if Austin falters. And I've been hoping that this team better utilized the FB position for some time now. That said, I have to admit that hope included a bigger and faster version. But maybe with so many teams going with smaller LBs nowadays he'll work out.
In the end, Goff is still the key.
