The NFL Draft is pivotal for every team, offering a chance to secure top talent and build for the future. For the Los Angeles Rams, success hinges on making astute draft choices that address their current needs and set them up for long-term success.
With that in mind, let's explore three promising draft prospects that the Rams should closely monitor in the final College games.
The Rams are currently 4-6 and hold the 12th overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft if the season ended today. Five of their six remaining games will be against playoff-contending teams, and the only winnable game is against the Giants. A 6-11 finish is probable and would likely improve their draft pick to 8-11. Here are some players who should be available in that draft range.
Meet Chop Robinson: A defensive force to be reckoned with
Background and playing style: Chop Robinson is a name that has been making waves in college football. As a dominant defensive player, his impact on the field is hard to ignore. With his imposing physical presence and exceptional athleticism, Robinson has consistently shown the ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His versatility allows him to excel in both run defense and pass coverage, making him an invaluable asset for any team.
Beware The Chop 🪓🫣
— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) May 9, 2023
Chop Robinson: '22 Season Highlights 👀🎬#WeAre | @ChopYoungBull pic.twitter.com/3vw8BpeMWa
Key strengths and skills: Robinson's game is characterized by his incredible speed and agility, which allows him to effectively chase down ball carriers and disrupt passing plays. His exceptional instincts and football IQ are evident in his ability to quickly read and react to plays. Moreover, Robinson's leadership qualities make him a natural fit for the Rams' locker room culture.
Why the Rams should consider drafting Robinson
The Rams have long prided themselves on their strong defense, and selecting Chop Robinson would only bolster their already formidable unit. With his skill set and versatility, Robinson has the potential to make an immediate impact on the team's performance. His presence would shore up the defense and provide valuable depth and flexibility to the Rams' defensive strategies. Robinson and Donald on the line is a threat and nightmare to QBs everywhere. Kyler Murray is trembling at this very moment.
Cooper DeJean: A Rising Star in the Secondary
A Rising Star in College Football: One player who has caught the attention of scouts and analysts is Iowa CB Cooper DeJean. Known for his exceptional play in the secondary, DeJean has all the tools to become a lockdown cornerback in the NFL. His combination of speed, agility, and anticipation makes him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and receivers.
There goes that man!! @cdejean23 x #Hawkeyes
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) October 1, 2023
pic.twitter.com/g6rfgRSY5V
Key attributes and playing style: DeJean's ability to read routes and make quick breaks on the ball sets him apart from his peers. His natural ball-hawking instincts have resulted in numerous interceptions and pass breakups throughout his college career. Furthermore, his physicality and willingness to play a strong run defense make him a well-rounded player who can contribute to various aspects of the game.
How DeJean fits into the Rams' defensive scheme
The Rams' defensive scheme relies heavily on the secondary's ability to disrupt passing plays and create turnovers. Cooper DeJean's skill set aligns perfectly with this philosophy. His presence would provide the Rams with a reliable cornerback and add depth and competition to the secondary unit. With DeJean in their ranks, the Rams' defense would become an even more formidable force to contend with. He would make Rams fan forget the name Jalen Ramsey immediately.
BallHawk 🐤@cdejean23 x #Hawkeyes
— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) October 1, 2023
pic.twitter.com/o6cJvM7iji
Taliese Fuaga: Power and Versatility in the Trenches
Dominating the line of scrimmage: When it comes to building a successful team, winning the battle in the trenches is of paramount importance. This is where Taliese Fuaga enters the picture. As a versatile and powerful defensive lineman, Fuaga can disrupt offensive plays and create havoc in the backfield.
Key attributes and playing style: Fuaga's raw strength and explosiveness give him a significant advantage over his opponents. His ability to shed blocks and collapse the pocket forces quarterbacks to make hurried decisions, resulting in turnovers and sacks. Additionally, Fuaga's agility and quickness allow him to chase down ball carriers and make plays in the open field.
Adding Fuaga to the Rams' defensive front
The Rams' defense is known for its dominant front line, and Taliese Fuaga would fit right in. His presence would immediately boost the team's pass rush and run defense. Moreover, Fuaga's versatility allows him to line up at multiple positions along the defensive line, giving the Rams the flexibility to rotate players and keep their unit fresh throughout the games. He is a run blocking solution, paving the way for a later round selection of Michigan RB Blake Corum to be very exciting and effective.
Conclusion
As the Rams gear up for the upcoming NFL Draft, they have a golden opportunity to secure top-tier talent that will strengthen their team for years.
Chop Robinson, Cooper DeJean, and Taliese Fuaga are three exceptional prospects with the skills and attributes that align perfectly with the Rams' needs and defensive philosophy. Adding these players to their roster would bolster their strengths and provide valuable depth and competition within their respective positions. The NFC West is up next in our NFL Mocks mid-season mock draft series, check back next week to see how the Rans go in our mock draft.

