Turf Show Times
The Los Angeles Rams are in a unique position this season in which they are competing, but also have a good chance at a top-10 pick thanks to the Atlanta Falcons. Every week throughout the college football season, I’ve been looking at each draft-eligible quarterback and grading their performances. On Saturday, it was no surprise that Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza won the Heisman. While Dante Moore may be the better overall fit for the Rams at quarterback, they could certainly make a move for Mendoza. Given that Mendoza just won the Heisman and he’s the topic of discussion, that is the scenario explored here. At this point in the draft process, it’s more important look at the positions here rather than the players themselves.
As it stands, the New York Giants have the number one overall pick. It’s hard to see them moving off of Jaxon Dart after one year. The Rams have the picks to fund another rebuild while getting their quarterback of the future. Mendoza has the ability to unlock all areas of the field and can pull out the funky arm angles and create out of structure in similar ways as Matthew Stafford.
Trading up from 10th overall to first overall wouldn’t be cheap. However, Les Snead traded up from No. 15 in 2016. McVay has never had a non-first overall pick at quarterback since joining the Rams. It’s very possible that the Rams opt to not take a quarterback. However, in a quarterback class that is weaker than originally thought, there may be more opportunity here than in other years.
Trevor Sikkema of PFF recently mocked this exact scenario. Said Sikkema,
“The Rams got a gift last year when they traded back with Atlanta and picked up a future first that now sits in the top 10, and there may be no better use of it than going all-in to secure their quarterback of the future. They’d likely need to part with at least their two first-round picks to move up to No. 1.”
*Note: Traded Picks 10, 31, and 2027 1st for No. 1 overall
The Rams are going to need a wide receiver in next year’s draft and it wouldn’t be surprising if they take one in the first round. Standing pat at 10th overall and taking Jordyn Tyson will certainly be an option. However, there will be options later on as well. Given how much McVay’s scheme can benefit the wide receivers, it makes sense to wait until day two to address the position.
With some questions about Davante Adams’ future, the Rams could look to find a young, true ‘X’ receiver on the outside. Lane is 6’4 and would give the Rams some size outside the numbers. He excels in contested catch situations and has some alignment versatility. He does struggle with separation, but his ability to bully defensive backs at the catch point makes up for...
