Since we can't afford Clowney adding Griffen who is really good against the rush and Golden had a couple of years in AZ with injuries but last year with the Giants he had 10 sacks with a weak group imagine how he may do with AD etc?

Both could be on short deals. The draft is really weak at OLB and ILB.

Thoughts

As of right now, its still on.
What say you?
I get why the execs/front office guys want the delay, little eval, minimal interviews, threat of covid19 on the player/team
But I also need to see some sort of sport...
What say you?

Yeah, this is a different way to look at relative Ram positional status. Very subjective and it’s still mid-FA and weeks before the draft but it’s just for funsies so here goes...

Remember, we’re trying to rate the projected ‘20 starters vs the starters that finished the ‘19 season.

Offense

QB. Goff should be slightly better if only because of one more year of experience, the influence of O’Connell, slightly more experienced OL, and projected improved RB stable, not to mention a year older and wiser McVay. Grade QB improved.

RB. I expect a new quality RB to be added in the draft. The new RB tandem of Henderson/rookie should be at least the equal of the arthritic Gurley, if not an outright upgrade. Grade RB equal.

OL. Should be improved overall. Whit will be a year older but healthy. Corbett, Edwards, and Evans should all benefit from a years experience and gelling together. Blythe at C should finally be 100% healthy. Hav might have a bounce back season. A C might be the pick at 52 if a stud falls, but even if not this OL should be improved over the late ‘19 version. Grade improved.

TE. Are you kidding me? I see an even more improved TE Corp with a healthy Everett, a continuation of Higbee’s explosion, and some more great Mundt blocking in running game. Grade slight improvement.

WR. Probably equal here unless Cooks is 100% with no concussion issues. So, who knows? Grade equal.

Defense

DL. Obvious improvement with ARob and Brockers back. Grade significantly improved.

Edge. Unknown but probably slightly degraded. Reason I say slightly is because Matthews wasn’t all that. He was a liability in run D and most of his sack production resulted from QB being flushed to him by play of teammates. That’s why he was released. Missing Fowler might hurt, but then again how consistent was Fowler, really? And how much did he benefit from AD’s presence? Heck, Floyd is a better run defender and might also benefit from AD’s presence. Lots of candidates for edge already on the roster and surely one of them can replace Matthews. Grade slightly regressed.

ILB. Littleton was a helluva coverage/playmaker type but not very strong as a run defender. One of Howard/Young/draft pick might be able to somewhat replace Littleton’s effect. Remember, Rams/Staley chose to let Littleton walk when they could have extended him if he was felt to be a ‘must have’. Kiser should be an upgrade at MLB over Reeder. Grade slightly regressed (but net effect is only slightly).

Outside CB. Should be improved with a half season of gelling between Ramsey/Hill. Plus Staley is more likely to play to their strengths by using them in more man schemes than Wade ever did. That’s huge. Grade improved.

Nickel CB. Either Long or Williams should eventually be fine as an NRC replacement, but neither as yet has his experience so expect a learning curve as opposing QB’s are forced to test them. Grade regression (at least for first half of season).

S. JJ is an upgrade over the ‘19 Weddle, no question. Rapp should be improved after his rookie season of experience. I do wonder if we have a FS on the roster now that Christian is gone that can enable Rapp to continue to play that hybrid-LB role that worked so nicely last tear. Look for a FS draft pick. Grade substantial upgrade.

ST. Let’s face it, GZ’s departure creates a big hole that Bonamego must fill, probably with a rookie (I’m not wild about any FA kickers out there, tbh). Also, Bonamego has to earn our trust, so there is that. Grade regression, possibly substantial.

So there you have it. Overall more pluses than minuses. And we still have most of FA, possible trades, the draft, UDFA’s, and final cut opportunities ahead before opening day.

I’ll be the first to admit that my glass is almost always more half full than half empty, but I am cautiously optimistic. This ‘20 Ram team will be competitive and definitely in the playoff hunt. If we catch a break or two via the draft and/or reduced injuries we just might be in some SB conversations.

Or two. Even if they intend to draft one, there is no reason to leave a hole at a key position going into the draft. I'd sign McCrane (Guardians' kicker) but even if they don't like him start bringing guys in and try to improve the competition level we'll have in camp at the least.

I will be surprised if we don't see something happen soon on that front. Definitely before the draft.

NFL Free Agency 2020: Top 10 players left on market and best landing spot for each

NFL free agency is almost two weeks old now, and the league has gone topsy-turvy since the start of the legal tampering period. The most surprising move so far has to be Tom Brady deciding to leave the New England Patriots to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Even though Brady has signed, there are plenty of skill position players still available for teams to grab.

There have been plenty of players changing teams and free agency has provided the sports world with the only sense of normalcy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The NFL league year has arrived in full force with plenty of teams agreeing to terms with the top free agents on the board.

Even though many players have committed to teams, there are still valuable free agents that haven't agreed to terms with a new team, including a top-10 player on Pete Prisco's Top 100 free agents list. This list does not include Cam Newton, who was released by the Panthers on Tuesday, or any other late releases who weren't on Prisco's original top 100.

These are the top 10 free agents as the second week of free agency continues, and the best fits for each of them going forward:

1. Jadeveon Clowney

Teams are in desperate need for pass rushers and Clowney is still available. The price tag for Clowney will be high and could potentially reach $20 million per season if there is a bidding war.

Clowney hasn't fully lived up to the hype of being the No. 1 overall pick, but he's been productive. He has 32 sacks in six NFL seasons with 80 quarterback hits, 252 pressures and three Pro Bowl appearances. He has also graded out exceptionally well via Pro Football Focus, specifically over the past two seasons. Clowney finished with 31 tackles, three sacks, four forced fumbles, 13 quarterback hits and 47 pressures in 13 games in 2019.

Best landing spots: Seahawks, Colts, Giants

2. Jameis Winston

The market for Winston is drying up, especially since the Buccaneers landed Tom Brady. Winston will have to look elsewhere for his next team, but the Colts and Raiders are out as potential destinations. There are a few teams that need starting quarterbacks, including the Patriots and Chargers, but who knows if they are interested?

Winston completed 60.7% of his passes for a league-leading 5,109 yards with 33 touchdowns and a league-high 30 interceptions. He became the first quarterback to throw for 450-plus yards in consecutive games and was the first quarterback in league history to throw for 30 touchdowns and 30 interceptions in a season. His seven interceptions returned for touchdowns is a NFL record.

Best landing spots: Patriots, Chargers, Bears

3. Logan Ryan

Ryan would be an excellent value signing for any team that wants to add him to their secondary. He finished with 113 tackles, 18 passes defensed, four interceptions and four forced fumbles in all 16 games.
Opposing quarterbacks threw for five touchdowns and had an 88.7 passer rating targeting Ryan. Sure Ryan is coming off a down year, but he is just 29 and a reliable starter for any team that needs a cornerback.

Teams that couldn't get Darius Slay should take a look at Ryan.

Best landing spots: Cowboys, Giants, Bears

4. Jason Peters

Another aging left tackle that still good enough to start in the NFL. The Eagles decided to move on from Peters after 11 seasons, allowing him to seek a starting opportunity elsewhere. Injuries have limited Peters the past three seasons, which may hurt his market.

Peters had 10 penalties last season. He's played over 85% of the offensive snaps just once since 2014. Oh and he's 38 as well.

Best landing spots: Titans, Seahawks, Chiefs

5. Damarious Randall

A former cornerback with the Packers, Randall found a home in Cleveland as a safety. He had 61 tackles and 2.5 sacks in 11 games, hampered by a hamstring injury all season. A hard-hitter that was known for his helmet-to-helmet strike on Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson last season, Randall provides a force to any secondary.

Randall's coverage skills aren't great, but he's a solid starter in this league.

Best landing spots: Buccaneers, Jets, Vikings

6. Bashaud Breeland

Breeland is a cost-efficient cornerback, even though he'll be looking for a bigger deal in free agency. The Chiefs got Breeland for just $2 million last season, as the 28-year-old cornerback was key toward solidifying their defense during last year's Super Bowl championship.

Breeland started 15 games for the Chiefs, recording 48 tackles, two interceptions and eight passes defensed. While Breeland allowed 18 yards per completion and five touchdowns, opposing quarterbacks completed just 48.4% of their passes thrown his way.

Sure, Breeland gives up the deep ball, but he's a solid NFL starter. He's a "bend but don't break" cornerback.

Best landing spots: Chiefs, Vikings, Cowboys

7. Markus Golden

Golden finished with 10 sacks and 72 tackles playing outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense last season, so why can't he find work? Production and age are working in Golden's favor, which is driving his price up. Doesn't help Clowney hasn't signed with a team yet, holding up the pass rusher market.

Inconsistency has plagued Golden, who recorded two double-digit sack seasons in five years, but has just 6.5 combined sacks in the other three campaigns (30 games). Signing Golden is a "boom or bust" move, especially if you're giving him multiple years and over $10 million a season.
Best landing spots: Redskins, Seahawks, Rams

8. Kamalei Correa

Correa has been a solid, if unspectacular contributor throughout his four-year career, but he has perhaps the best game he's ever played during the Titans' postseason run. A versatile linebacker who doesn't turn 26 years old until late next month, he can provide valuable depth and the ability to play against both the run and the pass.

Best landing spots: Ravens, Patriots, Falcons

9. Darqueze Dennard

It appeared Dennard was heading to the Jaguars, but the agreement to a three-year contract fell apart in the eleventh hour. The 28-year-old corner has spent his entire career with the Bengals, and is a former first-round pick. He started the 2019 season on the PUP list, but did return to play in nine games (five starts) for Cincy and totaled 37 tackles and five passes defended. According to Pro Football Focus, Dennard was the 22nd highest-graded corner in the league in 2019.

Best landing spots: Jets, Broncos, Titans

10. Mike Daniels

Daniels is coming off of a one-year deal he signed with the Lions after being released by the Packers last offseason. He only played in nine games and recorded just one sack, but should generate some interest on the open market. In 111 career games, he has recorded 235 combined tackles and 30 sacks.
Best landing spots: Ravens, Vikings, Giants

Peter King had this bit in his MMQB column:


“Free me,” Brandin Cooks tweeted Friday night, amid reports the cap-strapped Rams were trying to trade him.

If he is dealt, it will continue the odd career of a very good player. Cooks was drafted 20th overall by the Saints in 2014.

In 2016, at 23, catching passes from Drew Brees, Cooks was the Saints’ deep threat, averaging 15.0 yards a catch with eight touchdowns.

In 2017, he was traded to the Patriots for the 32nd pick in the first round. At 24, he caught passes from Tom Brady, and his 16.6-yard average gave Brady is best and most consistent deep threat in years.

In 2018, he was traded to the Rams for the 23rd pick in the first round. At 25, he caught passes from Jared Goff, and his 1,204 yards was the most in his career. He was the key receiver on a Super Bowl team.

In 2020, Cooks is on the block. He’s had concussion issues, and his production dipped to 3.0 catches per game last year, by far a career-low. But I think he’s a pretty good risk. An acquiring team would owe him $20 million the next two years, and then could cut him without a hurtful cap hit. For about 4 percent and then 5.5 percent of the salary cap over the next two seasons, Cooks could be the missing link to a contending team.

My best landing spots for Cooks:

1 Philadelphia, for the 53rd pick in the draft.
2 Green Bay, for the 62nd pick in the draft.
3 Oakland, for the 80th and 121st picks in the draft. (Raiders don’t have a second-rounder.)
4 Washington, for the 66th pick in the draft.

Imagine, in the span of four years:

Playing for Asshole Face, Bill Belichick, Sean McVay and perhaps Doug Pederson, all of whom coached in at least one Super Bowl.

Being targeted by Brees, Brady, Goff and perhaps Carson Wentz.

Playing in two straight Super Bowls.

Being traded three times, twice for first-round picks.

10 things with Josh Reynolds

Each week, we interview a different Rams player to find out about their lives on the field as well as off of it. Team Reporter, Sarina Morales, asks the questions fans want to know, in a fun and conversational interview. This week, wide receiver, Josh Reynolds, spoke to Sarina about why he has such a good relationship with the Rams wideout group, his new appreciation for his backyard and Ozark.

1: Big Smoove update

Sarina: First and foremost, how's 'Big Smoove' doing?

Josh: I'm good, just been trying to cope with all of this craziness that's been going on.

2: Life is a Beach

Sarina: The offseason has been pretty different from any other we've seen. What are you looking forward to most once things get back to normal?

Josh: What I'm looking forward to when this is all over is being able to go to the beach! Also to go eat at Joey's restaurant!

3: JJ's return

Sarina: You have often been called a "sleeper" on the team. Who would you say is another teammate you are excited to see step up this coming season?

Josh: I'm looking forward to see John Johnson's comeback season.

4: On an Island

Sarina: I know most of us are staying put, so if you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be? Why?

Josh: If I could live anywhere it would be a private island for me and the fam. That way if we wanted to do something outside, we would be on a beach.

5: I just want to be successful

Sarina: Why do you think you have such a good relationship with your fellow wide receivers?

Josh: I think it's because we are all looking to see one another be just as successful as ourselves.

6: Poolside

Sarina: What has been your "new" favorite part of your home? (A part you didn't really use/appreciate before we were all quarantined.)

Josh: My favorite part is my backyard/pool. I spend a lot of time in the pool now.

7: Keep it simple

Sarina:100 kittens or 3 baby sloths?

Josh:3 baby sloths. 100 of anything is very excessive.

8: Ozark is back!

Sarina: What show should I binge-watch?

Josh: I have found myself binge-watching Ozark and Altered Carbon.

9: He's not afraid

Sarina:If you had to be on a reality TV show, which one would you choose?

Josh:Naked and Afraid

10: On the go Sports App Award

Sarina:Your lovely girlfriend, Haley, is a sports reporter. What is something she's taught you about covering the game?

Josh:I get to see how much time and effort goes into that side of the camera. She also is like my 'on the go sports app' because she knows almost everything going on in the sports world.

Teams can have plenty of pre-draft communication with prospects

Although Pro Day workouts and private workouts and visits to team facilities can’t happen prior to the 2020 draft, teams can still spend plenty of time talking to prospects.

According to the NFL, teams may contact an unlimited number of incoming rookies up to three times per week, for up to one hour at a time. The communications may be in the form of phone calls or videoconferences, and the only requirement is that the not conflict with a player’s school work.

Given that most players are no longer in school and given that most schools have switched to online learning, few if any communications would potentially conflict with classwork.

While hardly a perfect replacement for meeting players in person, a lot can be learned by talking to them for up to three hours per week in advance of the draft — including whether and to what extent they are reliable or punctual when the time comes to make or receive a phone call.

I do realize the Rams are in HUGE problems if anything ever happens to Goff but I am still assuming the Rams will add another backup in addition to John Wolford before the start of the season. I am sure there will be some pretty good veterans available but I am guessing that the Rams salary cap situation will limit their choices. Just curious to get some thoughts on what other Rams fans (With much more knowledge about the Rams than me) think they will do (Sign another veteran, Draft one in the upcoming Draft, etc) to fill that roster spot. I am assuming the Rams won’t go into the season with just Goff and Wolford.

2020 Offensive players Late round / UDFA’s



In no special order, these players were intriguing.



Brian Herrien RB Georgia 6’0” - 210 lbs

Herrien was a career back-up with good production in that role. He’s physical runner with decent speed, can catch the ball well, and is a good pass protector. Could be part of a well rounded RC by committee.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1YeTgNiiI4




Quez Watkins WR Southern Miss 6’0” – 185 lbs

Watkins has good size and great speed (4.35/40). Has a sudden burst to get past defenders after making catch. Is very good at jump balls. Needs to get stronger as to not get bumped off his route in press man and he needs to lessen the number of balls into his body.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pIs_iI8U3I




Jonathan Ward RB Central Michigan 6’0” – 205 lbs

Ward looks to have break away speed without any combine testing. He looks to have a good balance of receiving skills to go along with his good vision as a ball carrier. His slight build for his height may force him into a 3rd down specialist.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJa-sV7JsZY&t=1s




Dominick Woods-Anderson TE Tennessee 6’4” – 250 lbs

Woods-Anderson has the skills I demand in a TE ; to be a competent blocker. He is arguably the best blocking TE in this class. He didn’t run well at the combine, but on tape he is fluid in getting into his routes and can find holes in zones.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EP36N6Z5tI0&t=1s






Lawrence Cager WR Georgia 6’5” – 220 lbs

Cager popped on the screen as I was watching tape of other players ; he kept making contested catches and half of them were in the endzone. He does not have long speed to get over the top of the defense, but is good over the middle and a killer in the redzone. Over 2 seasons, he had 7 tds on 38 catches….that’s a TD every 5.5 catches. Would make a good WR4-5 for the Rams if they lose Reynolds in FA.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfTzRJnqi6o&t=5s




Jason Huntley RB / KR New Mexico St 5’9” – 195 lbs

Huntley is another balanced runner/receiver with a 7 yards per average in carries and 8 yards per reception ; 23 total TD’s from scrimmage. And, in addition, had 5 KO return TD’s in 41 attempts.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpvOJIJJddo&t=60s




Noah Togiai TE Oregon St 6’4” – 248 lbs

I list Togiai here only because of the higher possibility he becomes a Ram due to the fact they met with him before his Pro Day. He has above average burst off of the LOS to get into his routes and is quick at locating the ball. However, his blocking is not on par with his receiving skills. One scout was quoted as saying his blocking is laughable.

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2020 Defensive players - late round potential / UDFA’s


In no particular order, some of these players I found to be interesting.


Chris Orr LB Wisconsin

He is one of the best when blitzing, he shows awareness playing zone coverage, but doesn’t get off of blocks

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cy3RHZX8XwE




Kamren Curl Safety Arkansas

Has a knack for getting his hands on the ball and knocking it loose ; good coverage skills, played CB as a freshman

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2JmQrJr0X4




Garrett Marino DL UAB

He fits the definition of a defender who plays like his hair is on fire ….. has a non-stop motor

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M49amJxZoJo




Tipa Galea’I Edge Utah St

A tall, lanky Edge player with good production but had an off the field issue.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4zmgAhRGQo




Rodney Clemons Safety SMU

6’0” – 195 lbs, decent sized Safety with CB experience ; great tackler ; can make plays on the ball with 7 int’s and 27 Passes defensed over 3 seasons.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4zGZ0fFYeA


Derrek Tuszka Edge ND State 6’4” – 250 lbs

Dominated as a 4-3 End against smaller schools ; will have to move to 3-4 edge in the NFL and show some coverage ability

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs7KpdqbIEk


Charles Oliver CB Texas A&M

I can’t find any highlights of Oliver on Youtube, but there is this, from CFB Film Room: “Oliver, a three-year starter, closed out his Texas A&M career with a bang. On 32 targets, Oliver allowed a measly 3.6 yards per target versus slot receivers. No other player came in under 4.0 yards per target allowed. The 6-foot-2, 196-pound cornerback has gone unnoticed in NFL Draft circles, but he was certainly productive enough to warrant at least a camp invite in the NFL. “



Rashad Smith LB Florida Intl 6’1” - 220 lbs

Smith is a LB / Safety tweener who is good in pass coverage. He had 10 passes defensed, 7 INT’s, and 10 sacks over 3 seasons.

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0jPFnk3T20

Stay at home with the Rams: Taylor Rapp

Check out what Taylor Rapp is up to as we all practice social distancing and stay home to stay healthy.

What's being watched non-stop at the Rapp's?

Friends. My girlfriend Danielle has been binge watching it for 15 years. Although they recently took it off Netflix (YESSS), the show still manages to always be on our tv no matter what we're doing. She has to be the biggest Friends fan out there.

Book suggestion for the fans?

Extreme Ownership. The book is about two Navy SEALS and how they learned that Leadership is the single most important factor in determining whether a team succeeds or fails. They explain and depict the leadership principles they've learned as SEALS and how they translate over to the business world, organizations, families, and basically any team of any form. AMAZING read.

How are you getting ready for year two while social distancing?

Finding creative ways to get my heart rate up and get workouts in throughout the day. Also dialing in to my nutrition especially since all gyms are closed and it's hard to get a good of a workout as I could before all of this. I try to get out once or twice a day (staying away from people of course) and try to go for a walk, hike, or run. Just really overall, trying to stay as active as possible and finding creative ways to do so.

Go-to movie?

Pursuit of Happyness. Whenever I need a little inspiration or motivation, this is my go-to. And the main character is Will Smith, my favorite actor.

Most random thing you did the past week?

Found my old Nintendo GameCube in my parents' basement and dusted it out. I spent the entire day living out my youth years playing my childhood favorites like Zelda, Mario Kart, and Super Smash Bros. It brought back too many memories.

What app are you spending the most time on?

Instagram. I'm probably on IG way more than I should be, but I try not to check the app (or really be on my phone) during the day and just check it once at the end of the day. But way more often than not I find myself just scrolling through the app and the discovery page. Especially food pages and pictures I find on the discovery page. I could spend hours on hours looking through them. Definitely not one of my proudest moments. But... If anyone wants to send food pages and pictures to me @taylorrapp I absolutely won't be complaining.

5 best NFL moves of the offseason

While there are definitely still moves to be made, the bulk of the big free agents and trades in the NFL are behind us. Most stars have new teams, and some moves have definitely been bigger than others. Some have been smarter than others, too — the NFL is full of big-money signings that don’t work out, and huge trades that fall short of their intended impact.

We’re betting these moves won’t fall in those categories. Here are five of the best and sharpest moves of the NFL offseason so far.

5. Ravens trade for Calais Campbell

Campbell has a reputation as a quality teammate, not to mention an excellent pass-rusher. He had 31.5 sacks in three seasons with Jacksonville, and it’s an absolute coup for Baltimore to be able to land him in exchange for only a fifth-round pick. Campbell will solidify Baltimore’s defense and improve their pass rush. The acquisition was even more important now that the Michael Brockers signing fell through.

4. Colts land Philip Rivers

There’s nothing exceptionally wrong with Jacoby Brissett as a quarterback, but his 2019 performance indicated that the Colts need more out of that position. That’s why they went out and got Rivers. Yes, there are concerns after the veteran quarterback threw 20 interceptions last season, but he’s an upgrade over Brissett and should improve the offense. This is, after all, a guy with 397 NFL touchdown passes. Rivers playing with the Colts’ existing talent should make them better immediately.

3. Browns’ signing of Jack Conklin

The Browns desperately needed offensive line help. It was their biggest, most obvious need, and a big reason for their underwhelming 2019 season. They went out and addressed that by bringing in Jack Conklin, the top tackle on the free agent market. Conklin should immediately prove beneficial to Baker Mayfield just by keeping the quarterback on his feet more and allowing him to make plays. It may not fix all of Cleveland’s line issues overnight, but it’s a huge step forward.

2. Cardinals stealing DeAndre Hopkins in trade

In what is clearly the steal of the offseason so far, the Cardinals essentially landed one of the game’s best receivers for a second-round pick and a player in David Johnson who is on a big-money contract and wasn’t really in their plans anyway. Hopkins’ arrival gives Kyler Murray an incredibly dangerous weapon, and a new toy for coach Kliff Kingsbury to play with. Hopkins is an elite talent with five 1,000-yard seasons to his name, and it’s a clear statement of intent on Arizona’s part, too. If nothing else, Hopkins is going to make Arizona very exciting to watch in 2020, and could even put them in the playoff discussion.

1. Buccaneers sign Tom Brady

There are great moves and there are franchise-changing ones. Tom Brady joining the Buccaneers fits neatly into the latter category. The franchise immediately has more credibility than it has over the past decade, and they are suddenly being discussed as a possible contender. That’s what Brady’s presence means. The veteran quarterback still has one of the sharpest minds in the game, and his physical tools have not abandoned him yet. He has weapons to work with on offense, and he doesn’t turn the ball over, which is much more than his predecessor Jameis Winston can say. This is well worth the risk for the Bucs, who are suddenly one of the league’s most talked-about franchises. That’s just the way they’d want it.

Any chance of Micah Kiser becoming a starter (A quality starter?) for the Rams? I was thrilled when the Rams drafted him but was pretty disappointed about his limited contributions last season. But, IF he can become the MLB that I thought (Still do!) he could become that would be HUGE for the Rams Defense which seems to have put together a very good/stout Defensive Line and I think still has a pretty good Defensive Backfield. I think the Rams Defense will be Very Good next season!!!

Seeing last years top 2 sack leaders walk out the door has to make rams nation nervous so why did they part with Matthews ? He wasn’t that expensive was he? I know he didn’t seem that interested in setting the edge and playing the run but he did take advantage of his opportunities when he got them better than some of the other guys. You’d think that playing with Donald and Fowler would get you opportunities for sacks and they did but they did feel the need to bring him in the first place. So what does that say about the guys we have.

Will he be back? Probably no money.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/nypost...-free-agent-marqui-christian-falls-apart/amp/

It’s Friday night... people are land locked... let’s make the best of it with... THREAD GAMES!

What are Thread Games? I have no freaking idea. I made it up. I think, anyway.

But... here is a game... let’s see if we can make it past 10 posts...

1. I am going to post a word.
2. The next person posts with a RELATED word
3. The next person posts a RELATED word
4. So on and so forth... until we get bored

Seriously, there is only one rule. You can still smoke weed.

And... You can only watch so much NetFlix folks. Let’s see how creative we get each night. Fuck you Corona Virus!

And yes, it’s Rams/NFL, look at the title...

Let’s go....

Here is the word... next person posts a RELATED word...

Word: Rams

arty:

Don’t be chicken.

w/Jason Bateman back

I don’t think so. What better topic just weeks before the draft?

First let me stipulate a couple of things. Snead will likely trade down if he sees wanted players that would remain within reach AND Snead will take BPA among several Ram ‘need’ positions.

Having said that I see the following as biggest Ram position needs:

Edge
RB
ILB

And probably in that order.

Some will say OL and our #52 could well be an OL player if certain players fell and I agree. But I don’t think OL is among our top 3 needs, tbh.

A Safety will likely be drafted, but it will be for depth/development, I think.

Which position group will be the first Ram pick? Depends on how Snead/McVay and the position coaches feel about Obo, Ebu, Kiser, Howard, Patrick, and several other players, frankly. Plus RB looks like a screaming need that must be addressed by round 4, at least.

So, it all depends on who falls and whether Snead can engineer a trade down or two.

I think most of us expect both these guys to be extended - if they are, here are the players we would have for at least the next two seasons:

Goff
Henderson
Higbee
Cooks
Woods
Kupp
Noteboom
Corbett
Allen
Edwards
Evans/Havenstein

Brockers
Robinson
Donald

Ramsey
Long
Rapp
JJ



Signing Brockers and A'Shawn have completely set our DL for at least the next two years, with solid depth in SJD and Gaines. Made me wonder who else we would have. The scariest proposition is at OLB and ILB, where we wouldn't have any starting caliber players after this upcoming season. CB is also not quite as deep as you'd think after next season, and I don't think JJ will get an extension, although I wouldn't be upset if he did.

So for draft priorities:

ILB - this is going in a category by itself because it's beyond dire

S - again, thinking JJ won't be re-signed
OLB - along with S, this player would hopefully be a starter after the 2020 season
CB - Williams and Hill are both FAs after this year
RB - this would depend on your opinion of Henderson and Brown
OL - ironic, isn't it? That our biggest weakness is this far down my list of draft priorities - for me personally, I'd rather let the guys we have develop


It looks like we will have $60 million in cap next year, before factoring in Ramsey and Kupp - assuming they'll take about $32 million, that leaves us with some money to spend to retain Ebukam, JJ, Floyd, Williams and/or Hill. Adding that into the equation, I'd say our three biggest needs are ILB and RB, with the caveat that if they fall in love with an OL, pull the trigger.




Without further ado..



TRADE: Rams trade Gerald Everett, Josh Reynolds, Rob Havenstein and pick 104 to the Bengals for pick 33.

This is a strange one, I'll admit. It'd probably be somewhat unprecedented in that there aren't a ton of player for pick draft day trades, particularly this high - why I think this could happen:

First let's get the obvious out of the way: yes, Everett and Reynolds are only under contract for one year - that's why the Rams would send pick 104 back to them. Second, AJ Green and John Ross have been extremely injury prone, and Everett immediately upgrades their TE room. All three have proven they can play and Zac Taylor has a history with them. Also from the Bengals perspective, this is assuming they take Burrow and want to give him some immediate help.

Second, from the Rams perspective, it feels likely that none of these guys are in the plans beyond 2020 (Hav could be since he'd still be under contract, but at this rate is more likely to be a cap casualty after next year). And I seriously question our current cap situation - it seems like after signing Brockers that we would be over and will need to make some type of move.

Finally, I could see something like this being contingent upon a certain player being there, and because of McVay and Taylor's relationship, they could keep this between them, and obviously because it's the first pick of Day 2, there would be ample time to discuss it.



Pick 33:

JK Dobbins, RB, Ohio St.

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As an Ohio State fan, I've said before, I'm VERY tough on OSU players going into the NFL. I liked Michael Thomas at OSU and thought he would be good (can't stand him now obviously..), and I'm pretty decent at projecting OSU players in general. Dobbins will lead the NFL in rushing at some point - he has a vicious stiff arm, outstanding balance, great vision, breaks tackles, has some wiggle, and he's fast. He needs work in the passing game - while most OSU fans were up in arms about the officiating, I put the Clemson loss on Dobbins - two dropped TDs. And he's an average to below average blocker right now - but I see him and Henderson sharing the RB duties so I'm not concerned about that.



Round 2, Pick 52:

KJ Hamler, WR, Penn St.

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This one may give Rams fans some PTSD, but I'll say this about Tavon Austin - if we had taken him with the 52nd pick in the draft, he would have been worth it. And I trust McVay to cultivate this talent - it's also worth noting that Hamler is 20 - twenty - years old. In the short term, I see him as solving an immediate problem - or being an insurance policy, if you will - using him and Dobbins/Henderson similarly to how Fisher used Austin/Gurley during Gurley's rookie year - our OL was not good, but we were able to run the ball because of the horizontal threat of Tavon. In Hamler, most of his touches would come from behind the LOS while he works on route running and catching the ball. But you can't teach speed.



Round 3, Pick 84:

Malik Harrison, ILB, Ohio St.

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Happens to be another one of my favorites - may struggle against the pass, but with the additions/re-signings of Floyd, Brockers and Robinson, I'm continuing a theme here: improved run defense. I've seen him going earlier than this, but I don't see it for a LB with questions against the pass.



Round 4, Pick 126:

Thaddeus Moss, TE, LSU

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Hard to figure where he will be drafted, but his willingness as a run blocker is another theme I'm continuing here: improving the run game.



Round 6, Pick 199:

Jordan Fuller, S, Ohio St.

This is more about the person and what role he might be able to play rather than being a traditional "safety" - he's going to fall in the draft because he doesn't really stand out. Not rangy enough for what you want in NFL safeties these days, and not really a "box safety" either. But he's intelligent and if still on the board here, I think he can potentially chip in as a 3rd down LB/S role. Compared to the LBs we'll have, he would be an improvement against the pass.


Round 7, Pick 234:

Binjimen Victor, WR, Ohio St.

I remember the first time I saw him in the Spring game a few years ago - I was excited. He never lived up to that potential. He may not even make the team, but that goes of any 7th rounder, save for kicker - and I didn't want to spend a draft pick on a kicker. Victor wasn't redshirted his freshmen year, but barely played - then in his last three seasons, he had three different QBs: Barrett, Haskins and Fields. Ohio State has also had a rather crowded WR room, even though none are really blue chip talent. I think those two factors combined to limit his development, and I'm willing to take a chance on stashing him to see if he can develop being around an elite offense. Best play of his career:

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Even in this, you can see that his NFL future is probably a possession/physical WR, but he's too thin - a project for sure, but one I'm willing to take at this stage.






Roster:

QB - Goff, Wolford
RB - Dobbins, Henderson, Brown, Kelly
WR - Cooks, Woods, Kupp, Hamler, Webster, Victor
TE - Higbee, Mundt, Moss
OL - Whitworth/Corbett/Blythe/Edwards/Evans, Noteboom, Allen, Shelton, Brewer
DL - AD/Robinson/Brockers, SJD, Gaines, Smart
OLB - Ebukam/Floyd, Obo, Lawler vs. Polite vs. Holland
ILB - Kiser/Harrison, Reeder, Howard vs. Patrick
CB - Ramsey/Hill/Long, Williams, Deayon
S - JJ/Rapp, Scott, Gervase, Fuller


Something to note: while most have been on wanting to improve the Rams OL, it's worth noting that the five I have starting were the same five that started our last five games, which was a borderline elite offense - the lone exception was the game against Dallas. The other four games - all against our divisional opponents - the OL performed extremely well - with the improvement of Goff, the addition of Dobbins and another year of experience for these guys - yikes. And Noteboom and Allen - our first two backups - both have starting experience themselves.

MemphisRams 1.0 Mock Draft

We all know that Rams GM Les Snead is going to do his best to trade around and pick up more selections. But, in this mock I'll just be conservative and have no trades.


2-52 Curtis Weaver, Edge, Boise State 6023, 265
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From what I understand new DC Brandon Staley's scheme really rely's upon edge rushers. No surprise given that's what he coached. McVay didn't get rid of a legend DC in Wade Phillips, not to go out of his way to get his his relatively unknown new hire what he needs. In a weak EDGE rusher class, this redshirt junior who compiled 34 sacks and 47.5 TFL at Boise State joins the competition.


3-84 Tyler Biadasz, C/G, Wisconsin 6035, 314
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Biadasz was unable to workout at the combine due to a procedure with his AC joint by an LA specialist. But, if not for medical concerns, it's doubtful that Biadasz had a shot at still being here this late, IMO. Hopefully, the Cowboys who select ahead of the Rams in each round and just lost their starting center to retirement won't throw a wrench in this scenario.

3-104 Jordyn Brooks, LB, Texas Tech 6000, 240
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The Rams need a speedy 3 down LB capable of replacing Corey Littleton. Brooks is faster and better vs. the run than Littleton and hopefully can get to his level vs. the pass with good coaching.

IMO, the only reason Brooks could possibly last this long is due to medical concerns. Offseason shoulder labrum surgery may prevent Brooks from being ready to go until training camp. However, the way things look now, there may not be any OTAs this year anyway.


4-126 Terrell Burgess, S,Slot CB, Utah 5113, 202
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Rams going back to the Senior Bowl well with this selection. While he didn't become as starter until his senior season, this CB turned safety was said to be very impressive in coverage all week long.

6-199 Dalton Keene, TE, Virginia Tech 6041, 253
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Swiss Army Knife competitor capable of playing TE, H-Back, and FB. Nicknamed "Rambo" at Va Tech this kid is also good on special teams. Having the highest Sparq Score of the weak TE class might make it hard for him to stay on the board this long, but he'd be nice get for a team looking to improve it's rushing atack.

7-234 Joe Reed, WR, Virginia 6004, 224
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This former high school RB turned Slot WR, KR, PR in college offers good speed (4.47/40) interesting possibilities. I'm especially interested in seeing him take reps out of the backfield and being a matchup issue for opposing defenses. And I'd like the team's punt returner to be able to be effective in more than just one area.