The St. Louis Rams hold the second and the 13th overall pick in this year’s draft. The second overall pick possess the ability to really set the tone for the rest of the first round. There are many different directions the Rams could go with this pick and I would like to talk about the five most likely options.
Jadaveon Clowney – DE – South Carolina
Clowney is one of the most talented players to enter the draft in a very long time. Defensive end isn’t a huge need for the Rams but pairing him alongside Robert Quinn, Chris Long, and Michael Brockers, would make for one of the scariest defensive lines in the league. Jeff Fisher puts a lot of stock into talented defensive lineman so if Clowney is available at number two, it would be hard for Fisher to pass on him. His rumored issues with work ethic may play into the Rams passing on Clowney for a possible safer option.
Jake Matthews – OT – Texas A&M
Fisher has ties with Matthew’s family and has known him since he was a child. I don’t know if this will affect Fisher taking Matthews over Robinson, but Matthews is definitely the safer pick. Matthews is one of the safest picks in this year’s draft and can come in a start day one. The perennial pro bowl left tackle may be hard to pass up if Clowney is gone. Matthews fills a need at offensive tackle, especially if Jake Long doesn’t come back strong from his injury.
Greg Robinson – OT – Auburn
Robinson appears to have more upside that someone like Matthews. He is the most physical offensive tackle prospect in the draft and has the potential to be the best tackle in the league. Robinson is a very raw prospect though and while he is a solid run blocker, he really needs to improve as a pass blocker if he wants to be a left tackle. He may be stuck on the right side if he can’t improve his pass blocking.
Sammy Watkins – WR – Clemson
The Rams went with Tavon Austin last year in the first round and could go back to the receiver position this year. Tavon Austin isn’t really a true number one receiver, and Sammy Watkins is. The Rams could have one of the best young wide receiver corps if they go with Watkins.
Trading down
I’m sure the Rams will try to trade down a few spots and acquire more draft picks. If they trade down they would still have the possibility of getting one of the four players mentioned above. If these players aren’t available they may go with someone like wide receiver Mike Evans who will more than likely not be available when they pick again at number 13.