In the latest 7-round mock draft by Pro Football Network’s Ian Cummings, the Los Angeles Rams are anticipated to bolster their defense, addressing key positions to strengthen their roster. Despite being in the midst of the NFL Playoff hunt, the Rams are eyeing the upcoming draft as an opportunity to enhance their defensive capabilities.
With the 23rd overall pick, Cummings envisions the Rams selecting Alabama cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry. Described as the preliminary consensus CB1 in the 2024 NFL Draft, McKinstry possesses a compelling skill set, standing at 6’1″ and 195 pounds. Cummings highlights McKinstry’s fast feet, disciplined technique, length, physicality, and ball skills, making him a potential impact starter and a valuable addition to the Rams’ cornerback position.
The decision to prioritize defense continues in the third round, where the Rams secure safety Beau Brade from Maryland with the 54th pick. Brade is lauded for his athleticism, all-around versatility, and tenacity, making him a promising asset for the Rams’ safety room. In the same defensive vein, the Rams use their 85th overall pick to address the edge rusher position, selecting J.T. Tuimoloau from Ohio State. Despite concerns about bend limitations, Tuimoloau’s speed-to-power at 6’4″ and 277 pounds presents an overwhelming threat from outside alignments.
The mock draft suggests that the Rams passed on notable players like edge rusher Jared Verse, as well as tackles Troy Fautanu and Patrick Paul. The emphasis on defensive acquisitions aligns with the team’s apparent strategy to fortify their defensive lineup, particularly after refraining from significant spending on the unit in the previous offseason.
Further rounds of the draft see the Rams addressing additional needs. In the fourth round, they select linebacker Tyrice Knight from UTEP (144th overall), followed by offensive tackle Javon Foster from Missouri in the fifth round (147th overall). The Rams conclude their draft by picking up Stanford kicker Joshua Karty in the sixth round (175th overall).
As the Rams navigate the postseason and inch closer to the draft, the evolving landscape of available prospects and shifting team needs will likely influence their final selections. While it’s a long road to the draft, the Rams’ strategic focus on defensive reinforcements hints at their commitment to building a well-rounded and competitive roster for the upcoming seasons.
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