NFL
Guest Interview: Ryan of Turf Show Times
Last week, Matty I of Miami Dolphins blog The Phinsider gave his post-draft take of the Dolphins. The St. Louis Rams had the #2 pick in the draft behind the Dolphins, and today, Ryan, who rants on the Rams at Turf Show Times, shares his opinions on how the Rams’ brass did on draft weekend, and what impact the new additions will make.
1. How would you grade the Rams’ draft?
Tough to say without seeing the picks in action, but right now I’d give it a solid B.
2. Was Long at #2 the right choice?
Yes. The Rams had 5 and half sacks last season and Leonard Little is going to be 34 this year. We needed to draft a DE to groom as a replacement, a leader of the next generation.
3. Did they pick the right receiver in going with Avery, or should they have gone another route? How do you think Avery will factor into the offense from the start?
It’s definitely the head scratcher of the draft. The fact is that Avery has the speed the Rams needed at WR to replace Isaac Bruce. Personally, I think he’ll emerge as a deep threat this year since he has the speed to burn most corners in the league.
The Rams also needed gamers, guys with unstoppable motors and a work ethic. Their experience with some of their previous picks, like Claude Wroten, who have the talent but have never been able to cross the mental threshold to put it to use. Avery had none of those question marks.
4. Do you think they addressed their needs properly, or are there any holes that were left unfilled?
Yes, as best they could. I would have really liked to see an NFL-ready OT, Orlando Pace’s future replacement, but that would have meant sacrificing defense in the first round. Next season, I guess.
5. Were there any bad picks?
No, even Mr. Irrelevant, David Vorbora, figures to have a role on special teams right away.
6. What do you think of their other picks besides the top two, and what do you think their roles will be this season and beyond?
Third rounder, John Greco, was a good pick to give them help on the o-line. He’s not going to be a left tackle, but the Rams staff thinks he could immediately push RT Alex Barron for playing time. Greco will most likely fit in at RG, depending on how position battles shake out in August, where they can utilize his great run blocking skills.
Thier other o-line pick, 5th rounder OG Roy Schuening, had a nice college career and some experts (Mel Kiper) think he could figure in this season.
The speed theme continued with 4th round pick, DB Justin King from Penn State. He’s got the potential to be a solid CB and could play as a nickelback this year. The scouts like his dedication and some thought had he stayed in college for another season he would have been a first round pick next year.
Kentucky WR Keenan Burton has some nice skills and seems like a good value pick in the 4th. He’s part of the plan to inject some new blood into the WR corps in the hopes of developing some talent for the near future.
Honestly, I get the sense that this draft may be remembered down the road for the late round picks. The Rams did well here.
7. Which of the new additions stands out to you the most, besides Long or Avery?
Keenan Burton is a physical player who could turn into a solid #2 receiver as he learns the pro game. The Rams have a great track record with receivers, and Burton has the skills to one day replace the luminous list of pass catchers who’ve worn the Golden Horns.
8. Do you think Mr. Irrelevant could make himself relevant in the near future?
Absolutely. Already he figures to be a contributor on special teams, and I think with his talent and athleticism he could become a contributing part of the LB rotation.
9. What’s your realistic prediction for the Rams this season?
I’d be happy with 8-8 if we can stay injury free.
For more excellent analysis from Ryan, check him out over at Turf Show Times.
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