Rams Strengthen Defense in the Most Recent Mock Draft
Now that the NFL Scouting Combine concluded last week, the draft is truly in its final stretch, and mock drafts are becoming more and more public every day. The Los Angeles Rams are one of the more intriguing teams to follow in our mock drafts because they have a lot of options in late April. Although the Rams’ roster is strong overall, there are definite gaps at a few important spots. Los Angeles addresses probably its two largest needs, both on defense, in ESPN’s most recent two-round mock draft. First up, the Rams address the position of cornerback by selecting Nate Wiggins of Clemson at No. 19 overall.
“Although weighing 173 pounds at the combine wasn’t ideal, those worries were soon allayed by finishing with a 4.29 in the 40. Wiggins is a fast and patient cornerback who can consistently stay with targets in man coverage and has good zone awareness, according to ESPN. “The Rams’ defense severely lacks building blocks in the secondary, but Wiggins can be an immediate starter.”
Wiggins, a first-team All-ACC honoree the previous year, put on quite the show with two interceptions—one of which he returned for a touchdown—and 29 total tackles, six passes defended. Additionally, he just had an excellent showing in the combine, showcasing his speed and explosiveness. Next, the Rams choose Marshawn Kneeland of Western Michigan at No. 52 overall to fill their second major need at edge rusher. “Last season, rookie defensive lineman Byron Young and Kobie Turner gave the Rams fantastic early returns. Let’s continue,” writes ESPN. “Kneeland can play off the edge or reduce down inside to play along the interior, and he is coming off a solid combine showing.”
Kneeland has been a powerhouse for Western Michigan over the last three years, accumulating 26 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. He was selected to the second team of the MAC in 2023. It’s clear that there’s a big leap from the MAC to the NFL, but if the Rams see potential in him, it might be worth a shot. Though the draft is obviously still weeks away, general manager Les Snead would need to draft well in order for the Rams to address their two largest needs immediately.
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