SBNation.com User Blog: Brandon Bate

St. Louis Rams Defense: Breaking The Trend

Brandon Bate — Tue, 21 May 2013 13:17:06 -0000

In 2012, the 49ers, Seahawks, Steelers, Bears, and Broncos - all of whom had Top 10 [Defensively] seasons in Rush YPG and Pass YPG - were stingy about giving up yardage to the opposition. Teams that have that kind of success typically find themselves in the playoff discussion towards season’s end as a result. But looking at End of Year [EOY] rankings can also be slightly misleading...

Finishing in the Top 10 [or even Top 5] in one statistical category doesn’t necessarily equate to on-field dominance. It’s possible that one aspect of a team’s defense is so easily exposed, that it casts a positive light on another. The St. Louis Rams - over the course of the past decade - have shown that on more than one occasion.

Year

Rush YPG

Rank

Pass YPG

Rank

Record

2012

117.5

15

245.4

19

7-8-1

2011

152.1

31

222.6

8

2-14

2010

113.1

17

241.8

22

7-9

2009

137.6

27

244.6

23

1-15

2008

154.7

29

229.8

19

2-14

2007

115.3

20

240.4

24

3-13

2006

145.4

31

203.1

4

8-8

2005

136.1

28

226.2

22

6-10

2004

136.2

29

213.4

11

8-8

2003

123.8

20

210.2

14

12-4

* Green shading denotes highest EOY ranking

A Few Takeaways

* Last season’s defense unit is the first in the last decade to have finished the season ranked inside the Top 20 in both Rush YPG and Pass YPG. Those figures may not be staggering, but if progress is the expectation, the results are more than encouraging. Add in the fact that this defense is one of youngest in the NFL [ >25 years old; avg.], and the future is looking bright.

* The Rams finished 15th in defending the run in 2012, which was their most respectable performance in recent memory. In 2010, the Rams finished the season ranked 17th, but faltered in defending the opposition’s aerial attack. To be fair, it was a defense that featured Justin King as a starter.

* A Top 10 ranking in Pass YPG game doesn’t mean the Rams were fielding Pro Bowl corners and safeties. What it means - as aforementioned - is that teams were able to get a lead quickly, maintain a lead against the Rams often average-to-subpar offense, and then continue running the ball to kill the clock. It worked. see: "Record" column. The Rams finished 8th in 2011 and 4th in 2006; in both seasons the Rams finished next-to-last in the NFL in stopping the run.

* Averages: Over the course of the past decade the Rams have allowed [avg] 133.2 Rush YPG. In 2012, that would’ve finished 26th in the NFL. They allowed 227.8 Pass YPG [avg] during that span, which would’ve been good for 7th. This is more of the same. For ten years, the opposition hasn’t had to devise much more of gameplan than "Get the lead. Manage the clock by the running the football." And though finishing 7th in Pass Defense sounds appealing, it wouldn’t at the expense of achieving the usual results. A more balanced defense - like the one witnessed last season - is far more preferable.

If you’re looking at average rankings for the past decade, the Rams averaged 25th [24.7] in stopping the run, and 17th [16.6] in defending the pass. As you could imagine, it’s difficult to win when that’s the case...especially when consinstently finishing in the bottom quarter of the league statistically [against the run].

* In only three of the past 10 seasons have the Rams been better at stopping the run than the pass [2012, 2010, 2007]. Again, this past season is the only one in which the Rams were able to finish Top 20 in both categories. In the remaining seven seasons, the Rams finished [descending] 31st, 27th, 29th, 31st, 28th, 29th, and 20th against the run.

* A solid run defense isn’t going to hinder a team’s chance of winning, but it’s also no guarantee. In 2007 - one of the Rams’ finer performances - they allowed 115.3 Rush YPG [2nd best in the past decade], yet finished with a final season record of 3-13. Possibly more exception than norm, the Rams win percentage when their defense performs better in stopping the run than the pass throughout the season is .469, as opposed to the alternative... when their win percentage drops to .304.

* The quality of Rams defensive player has drastically increased, at least in terms of draft selection. In 2003 - the season in which the Rams had their best record - they boasted a plethora of highly drafted players...

especially across their front seven: Three 1st round picks, two second rounds picks, one third round pick, and a 5th round pick. The 2012 starting roster also has an impressive bunch of highly drafted players: Four 1st round picks, one second round pick, one third round pick, and an undrafted free agent. In the middle of it all [2008], the Rams proudly fielded: One 1st round pick, one 2nd round pick, one 3rd round pick, one 4th round pick, two 5th round picks, and an undrafted free agent.

So, if I were going to create my own scoring system based upon when a player was drafted and their ‘numerical value’ to the players that comprise the "4-3" portion of the Rams defense, I’d to it as such [also, please realize that I understand this doesn’t hold any true value or imply expected results]:

1st Rd = 7points , 2nd Rd = 6 points, 3rd Rd = 5 points, 4th Rd = 4 points, 5th Rd = 3 points, 6th Rd = 2 points, 7th Rd = 1 point, & UDFA = 0.5 pts [they can’t equal nothing]. The results of the three aforementioned seasons would score out like this…

2012

2008

2003

39.5

28.5

41

Again, I realize that this scoring proves nothing concrete, and certainly doesn’t suggest results. What it does, though, is highlight that for the first time in a long time, the Rams are fielding players who should excel at the next level... or at least their draft stock would lead you to believe they would. The 2013 Rams defense may not help lead the team to 12 wins, but it’s quite plausible to think it could at least aid the team in diverting a losing record for the 7th consecutive season.

The Rams are certain to find themselves down early in some of their 2013 matchups. But handing the ball off and assuming you’ll continue to chew up clock might just be a dated game plan when it comes to playing the St. Louis Rams.

In Summation

It’s a relatively small sample size, but the past ten years of Rams’ football has left a bit to be desired on the defensive side of the ball, and the chart above - along with their loss column - shows for it. It is a team game, though, and neither the offensive or defensive units have been reliable enough to secure victory when in crunch time.

The fact that the Rams have a run-stuffing defense superior to their pass defense won’t suggest that they’re in a better position to succeed or imply easy entry into the playoffs. What it may allude to is the Rams having a more well-rounded, competitive defensive unit. In seven of the seasons where the Rams ranked higher at defending the pass, five of them placed the Rams in the bottom four teams in the entirety of the NFL in defending the run. It wasn’t happenstance that they were facing team’s who preferred not to ask much from their Quarterback. It was as a result of fielding a defense who found themselves down early, and then having no answers offensively or defensively that put the opposition in a spot where throwing the ball was a necessity.

What happens in 2013 will be telling. I think it’s general consensus that the Rams’ defense should be improved this season. It will also be much younger. As it stands, the Rams will be replacing 23 years of NFL experience [Mikell, Dahl, McIntosh] with two years of experience between Darian Stewart, T.J. McDonald, and Alec Ogletree. The drop off in NFL-ready talent may be minimal... it may be non-existent. You cannot teach experience but, as you’ve seen, sometimes experience puts the Rams in the hole early in games. If history’s any indication, that would make for a long day for their opponents Running Back - as he’s asked to continuously chew up precious clock - and a longer one for the defensive line.

The product you’ll see on the field in 2013 is a far cry from that of 2011, when the Rams finished 31st in the NFL in defending the run. Chris Long and James Laurinaitis will be the only familiar starters from that season, while Robert Quinn and Darian Stewart will be asked to contribute far more. It’s good news. Having also added two more 1st round picks [to their front seven], and two solid free agent acquisitions puts the Rams in prime position for a second consecutive year finishing inside the Top 20 in both statistical categories.

Listen up, Rams foes. Go ahead and take the lead early in the game. Then tell yourselves that you’ll maintain it by punching it up the gut or occasionally bouncing it outside the tackles. Consuming time in an effort to maintain the lead is still a very good idea. Just be prepared to live with the consequences.

St. Louis Rams: Don’t Sleep On This Defense

Brandon Bate — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:09:50 -0000

Jared Cook, Jake Long, Tavon Austin, Stedman Bailey, Barrett Jones and Zac Stacy all have [at least] one thing in common: they surround Rams' QB - Sam Bradford - with talent. In doing so, they aid in making a relatively vanilla offense far more explosive. And that’s the 2nd best piece of news…

The Rams’ roster is really starting to take shape heading into the upcoming season, but the timing - for those who yearn for to see the team play in MetLife Stadium next February - is far from ideal. The NFC West is the toughest division in football, and the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks are two of the most well-rounded organizations in the game. Both made the playoffs in 2012…one played in the Super Bowl. Neither look worse for wear in 2013.

Winning in the NFL requires near flawless execution in all phases of the game. The offense - for the 49ers and Seahawks - is loaded with weapons, lead by young, mobile Quarterbacks, but it’s far from the dominant unit on either team. Their success[es] are due - in large part - to having two of the most stifling defenses in the NFL. The 49ers [3rd, 294.4 ypg. 2nd, 17.1ppg] and Seahawks [4th, 306.2 ypg. 1st, 15.3 ppg] defense’s help justify the adage "Offense wins games. Defense wins Championships." And despite the outcome for the 49ers in SB XLVII, the phrase still rings true. Unfortunately for them, the opposition had a great defense and an incredible offense… at least when it mattered most.

But how about those Rams? It may seem a bit of a stretch to simply throw their name in amongst the NFC West’s most adored coast-dwelling franchises. Or is it? The Rams' 7-8-1 record in 2012 isn’t anything to rave about. Heck, it’s just another non-winning season. There are subtleties, though, that a three-digit-seperated-by-two-hyphen glance won’t reveal.

A 7-8-1 record isn’t going to tell you that the replacement refs missed an offensive holding call in the final seconds of Week 1 [Lions], resulting in a Lions TD/Rams' loss. Why should it? It’s a loss. It’s not going to inform you that Brandon Gibson couldn’t properly line up against the 49ers in Week 10, thus adding the "-1" portion to the end of their season’s final record. You’d never know by looking at their record that the Rams went 4-1-1 in the NFC West - losing only to the Seahawks in the final week of the season - and had the best record in the division. You wouldn’t… unless you follow the Rams.

And IF you follow the Rams, you know the aforementioned all too well. You also know the Rams won games - more importantly stayed in them - as a result of their defense. It wasn’t often the team was leading heading into the final frame. As noted in my "Situational Sam Bradford piece," the Rams lead in only 5 of their 16 games when the clock started ticking in the 4th quarter. It wasn’t because [sans home games against Patriots and Vikings] the team wasn’t within reach of victory, but more so their inability to execute offensively down the stretch.

The Rams' defense did it’s part. Despite having the league’s 4th toughest schedule, the Rams were able to head into halftime leading - or within one touchdown - in every game except two [NE, MIN]. With only 30 minutes remaining in regulation, the Rams stood a fair chance at winning 14 games. Considering they only won half of those, it’s something to ponder. And based upon what Rams’ GM Les Snead has done in this offseason, it appears he thought about this long ago.

Progress - even for the most eager of Rams’ fans - is the minimal expectation. The defensive unit hasn’t disappointed. And though [statistically] the results don’t match those of the aforementioned NFC West foes, one cannot deny the Rams are forcing their name into the conversation of legitimate defenses. It’s been some time since the team’s defense ranked in the top half of the league in both YPG and PPG…

As you can see, it’s been well over a decade since the Rams have boasted one of the league’s more respectable defensive units. Even then, 14th in both PPG and YPG doesn’t gain the Rams defense the respect it probably deserves. Let us not forget, though, that the Rams are one of the youngest teams in the NFL. Quintin Mikell (32) and Rocky McIntosh (30) were the veterans on a Rams defensive unit that also fielded two impact rookie starters [Brockers & Jenkins] and a sophomore on the rise [Quinn]. The vacancies left by those veterans look to also be filled with more rookie talent: T.J. McDonald and Alec Ogletree. The ‘old man’ amongst the Rams defensive players? Former Pro-Bowler [having recently turned 29] Cortland Finnegan. Based on what the defensive unit showed they were capable of in 2012, ‘growing pains’ doesn’t appear to be an issue.

And though being ranked 14th isn’t going to turn many heads, I’ll revert back to the toughness of the division and 2012 Strength of Schedule. It’s circumstantial, but would the Rams have been able to increase their league rankings had they been awarded the league’s 7th easiest schedule last season… like the 49ers?

Shoulda, woulda, coulda’s aside, the Rams defense is giving the coaching staff - and it’s fans - exactly what they want: progress. There’s no doubting that there are similarities between the hovering-around-average results of the 2010 and 2012 seasons. Both had the Rams in Playoff discussion late in the season, and both lead to a grand total of zero postseason appearances. The defensive unit [collectively] may look different - and far more youthful in 2013 - than it has in decades, but the expectation remains. Alec Ogletree and T.J. McDonald are expected to break the starting roster. They’re also expected to be the missing cogs that elevate the Rams’ into the "Top-10" discussion.

One statistical category the Rams’ defense excelled in last season was QB sacks. They tied for the NFL league-lead in sacks in 2012 [52]. Nearly half of those came from two of the usual suspects: Chris Long and Robert Quinn. Long tied Chris Clemons, Michael Johnson, Julius Peppers, and Demarcus Ware for 9th in the league with 11.5 sacks. Quinn - the 1st round pick from 2011 - finished a mere one sack behind the bunch [10.5], ranking 17th. As Kendall Langford continues to gain familiarity with the 4-3 DEF and Michael Brockers improves as a result of experience, opportunities will open up for all four members of the defensive front. QB’s beware.

If you’ll revert back to the Greatest Show on Turf days - which was the last time the Rams’ lead the NFL in sacks - you’ll remember that much of the team’s success was a result of the Offense’s ability to do whatever they wanted with the ball, whenever they wanted to do it. Kurt Warner, Marshall Faulk, Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce, and Orlando Pace [amongst others] imposed their will on opponents, and made winning look easy. The defense, though, certainly wasn’t holding the team back. And though the game is constantly evolving, looking at the quality of the Rams’ defensive depth chart in 1999 has to make one feel pretty good about the direction they’re headed in 2013.

Assembling such an impressive roster of defensive talent comes at a cost. That cost was winning. It’s taken several difficult-to-stomach seasons in order to acquire the caliber of player[s] that currently help shape the depth chart. As it stands, the 2013 depth chart [tentatively] is comprised of four 1st round selections [3 of which play on the front four], two 2nd round selections, two 3rd round selections, a 7th round player who’s proven to be a Pro Bowl talent, and two Undrafted Free Agents [Dunbar, Stewart].

The past few season’s for the Rams have shown a few glaring weaknesses on the defensive side of the ball. Whether it was the need for a capable strongside linebacker or strong safety, breakdowns in those areas weakened the entire unit. It’s difficult to fire on all cylinders when one of your cylinders is consistently following the opposition into your end zone or watching Rob Gronkowski own the middle of the field. Weak links hinder the play-making abilities of those around them. That’s now a thing of the past.

The GM/Coaching staff appear to have addressed those concerns for the most part, leaving very few question marks in regards to how the defense will look in 2013. The eleven defenders that take the field for the Rams have proven that they can impact the outcome of a game. Maybe none more so than Janoris Jenkins in 2012. No player - dating beyond the GSOT days - has scored four Def. TD’s in a season. That is until last year, when the Rams’ rookie amassed three pick-sixes [tied for the NFL rookie record], and recovered a fumble that he took to the house against the 49ers. His four Def. TD’s lead the NFL. If not for the exceptional season that fellow rookie Luke Kuechly had, Jenkins may have won the Def. Rookie of the Year award. Regardless, he’s one of the most gifted corners to come out of the draft in the past few years, and the Rams were fortunate enough to have acquired him in the 2nd round. Team’s that passed on him as a result of his off field 'concerns’ will regret doing so if Jenkins continues to improve in the NFL. There’s little to suggest he won’t.

Perhaps the least discussed of the Rams defensive players, and one of the most reliable, is their man in the middle: James Laurinaitis. The Rams middle linebacker quietly finished in the Top 10 in the NFL in tackles over the past two seasons [6th and 8th, respectively]. Reverting back to the ‘firing on all cylinders’ idiom from a bit ago, Laurinaitis has played admirably despite being surrounded with limited talent over the course of his tenure with the Rams. Placing Ben Leber and Brady Poppinga on either side of him certainly wasn’t doing him any favors. Jo-Lonn Dunbar, being the only remnant affiliated with Gregg/Blake Williams, was a free agency blessing in disguise last year. Rocky McIntosh left a lot to be desired. If Alec Ogletree is able to make the kind of immediate impact that his rookie predecessors [Brockers and Jenkins] did, Laurinaitis should be primed for the best season of his career. Not having the responsibility of the entire second level should allow the Mike-LB to anchor the Rams’ defense, and further solidify a very respectable, potentially dominant front seven.

So while every piece of technology you own offers up healthy servings of insight on the 49ers and Seahawks, the Rams are quietly putting something special together. You can continue to stomach heaping helpings of their NFC West opponent’s playoff/Super Bowl chances, and player rankings that are void of one of the league’s best defensive ends. But keep your eyes and ears open as the season begins to unfold. As the Rams begin to tally sacks, INT’s, and wins you’ll hear those who emerge from the woodwork make declarations that they saw it coming. Snooze on them in the offseason if you must, but I wouldn’t sleep on this Rams’ defense when September rolls around.

Random Ramsdom: St. Louis Rams News, NFL Rookies, & …Mock Drafts?

Brandon Bate — Thu, 16 May 2013 01:16:09 -0000

* For the most part, Rams fans have little to complain about in reference to the 2013 NFL Draft. They were able to find some quality players who look to immediately make their stamp on this team. "Impact" players don’t always have to be drafted in the 1st round though. Gil Brandt highlights NINE rookies who just so happened to be in the right place at the right time… all of whom were drafted after day one. A few of them were on the Rams’ radar… none of them are on the Rams.

* Want to see Colin Kaepernick’s life change in just a few seconds? Watch a quick highlight of the #18 Ranked Game of 2012 on NFL.com. The game went on to finish as a tie… but remember, that’s only because Brandon Gibson really didn’t want to win.

* Ahh, here’s one that’s sure to inspire debate. It’s CBS Sports’ NFL QB rankings. Evan Silva - in an earlier article - stated how Rams’ QB Sam Bradford needed to ‘put up or shut up.’ Bradford slightly eludes this category, though he’s still ‘in limbo.’

* There have been quite a few "Top 100 Players" lists recently. The majority of them neglect to mention any Rams players. Pete Prisco debuted his… and you shouldn’t be surprised.

* Would you consider Jake Long one of the top 10 Free Agency signings of 2013? Left tackle is certainly one of the most sought after positions in football, and Long was a #1 overall pick after all. CBS Sports ranks their top 10 FA signings of this offseason.

* Is it truly a "Make or Break" season for Sam Bradford? ESPN’s Mike Sando and Matt Williamson discuss the matter. Williamson goes on to say that maybe it’s more a ‘prove it’ season. He also states that Bradford might not be as ‘trustworthy’ as Russell Wilson and Colin Kaepernick. What’s new?

* The Rams drafted the - oft-described - ‘most electric’ football player in the draft in WVU wideout Tavon Austin. Are ‘electric’ and ‘play-maker’ synonymous? I sure hope not, because Cardinals GM Steve Keim has something to say about it…

* Seattle Seahawks CB Richard Sherman is hosting a charity softball game in July. That’s awfully nice of him. In the spirit of giving, he’s hired someone familiar to officiate the game; someone who knows about giving….and taking away.

* USA Today - Shew! With football’s flying out of the end zone on kickoffs in the NFL these days, Rams fans should’ve been concerned with the idea of Josh Cribbs signing with the Arizona Cardinals. No worries…he’s decided end his career.

* National Football Post - One of the Rams’ strongest units lies in their defensive front. They’re certainly not short of talent at DE and DT. That being said, why not take a peek at the top rated players at both positions heading into the 2014 draft.

* RotoWorld - Evan Silva ranks the 2013’s best offensive line units. This - for the Rams - hasn’t been a particularly respectable bunch in recent memory. More so, it hasn’t been healthy. Take a look at how Silva ranks the Rams. There are three pages to this post. You’ll be happy to know that you’ll find the team from St. Louis on page 2. You’ll also find them ahead of the Seahawks…

* St. Louis Rams.com - The Rams are at a point where they’re starting to call dibs on University of Houston Linebackers in undrafted free agency. Last year it was Sammy Brown. In 2013, it was another accomplished Houston LB, Phillip Steward. Neither will be inked in as starters, but both could prove serviceable at the position.

* St. Louis Rams.com - It’s always nice to catch up with Rams Legends. Why not see what’s new with Rams’ great Vince Ferragamo?

* WalterFootball - Step 1) Admit you have a problem. I’ve had trouble sleeping for weeks now. I haven’t had a gulp of mock draft since late April. I want it. I need it. You need it too. It’s a potentially early, possibly inaccurate 2014 NFL mock draft. Rams have two picks (18 & 20). How’d they do?

… I wasn’t kidding when I told you to come back. @TurfShowTimes - as always - is the place for your up-to-the-minute Rams news. Brandon Bate is just the man behind the curtain.

St. Louis Rams’ Carroll Rosenbloom Award Winners; Past and Present

Brandon Bate — Tue, 14 May 2013 23:50:27 -0000

The Carroll Rosenbloom Award is an annual accolade given to the Rams’ Rookie of the Year, as voted upon by the team’s Coaches and Players. Rosenbloom - for those who may not know - was the owner of the Los Angeles Rams from 1972-1979. During that span, his teams won seven consecutive NFC West Championships [1973-79].

Since passing away in 1979, the team has honored his name by bestowing each Rams’ ROTY with an award in his namesake. You can see the full list of award winners here. For a closer look at the last decades Rosenbloom Award Winners…

2003 Pisa Tinoisamoa Linebacker University of Hawaii Selected in the 2nd Round 43rd Overall
2004 Steven Jackson Running Back/Beast Oregon State University Selected in the 1st Round 24th Overall
2005 Alex Barron Offensive Tackle Florida State University Selected in the 1st Round 19th Overall
2006 Tye Hill Cornerback Clemson Selected in the 1st Round 15th Overall
2007 Adam Carriker Defensive End University of Nebraska Selected in the 1st Round 13th Overall
2008 Donnie Avery Wide Receiver University of Houston Selected in the 2nd Round 33rd Overall
2009 James Laurinaitis Middle Linebacker THE Ohio State Selected in the 2nd Round 35th Overall
2010 Sam Bradford Quarterback University of Oklahoma Selected in the 1st Round 1st Overall
2011 Robert Quinn Defensive End University of North Carolina Selected in the 1st Round 14th Overall
2012 Janoris Jenkins Cornerback University of Florida Selected in the 2nd Round 39th Overall
2013

The bad news for Stedman Bailey, Barrett Jones, Brandon McGee, and Zac Stacy is that none of the team’s 3rd-7th round selections have won the award of the course of the past decade. As a matter of fact, you’d have to go back to the team’s 2000 Draft to find a player who won the award outside of the top two rounds. In that year, Iowa Safety Matt Bowen - who was selected in the 6th round [198 overall] - earned the honors.

It may just be time for another Rams’ rookie drafted outside of the 2nd round to show enough on the field that his coaches and peers see fit to vote in his favor. That’ll be no easy feat, though. Tavon Austin, Alec Ogletree, and T.J. McDonald may have already inked their names in as starters.

And though it may be uncertain now, one of the Rams’ rookies is going to stand out amongst the rest in 2013. They will catch the eye of those around them, and earn the honors of the 2013 Carroll Rosenbloom "Rookie of the Year" Award.

Who’s it going to be Rams Nation?

Poll

Early Guesses On Who Wins the 2013 Carroll Rosenbloom "ROTY" Award?

St. Louis Rams: Enter the Comb Dome!

Brandon Bate — Sun, 12 May 2013 11:45:48 -0000

"Levi's jeans were designed for the 49ers during the gold rush. It was a good fit for them then and it's a good fit today" - Jed York

Levi Strauss & Co., who will celebrate their 130th anniversary this May 20th, is one of the world’s most common name amongst jean enthusiasts. Known primarily for their uncanny ability to display just how much weight you’ve actually gained, the jean-maker’s hauled in $4.6 billion worth of revenue in 2012… All while you were judged [from behind] based on your might-as-well-be-a-neon-sign waistline size, which is conveniently indicated on the red tab for all to see. Time for a belt!

And let’s face the facts: Time’s have changed. Back in the mid-1800’s you didn’t have choices. Those gold miners didn’t want to wear Levi’s. It was either their offering, or no pants at all [have you ever tried sifting or panning for gold san pants?] If Jed York wants to be honest with his team’s fans, then he’d admit that many of those miners would preferred to wear a pair of Rocawear Jeans®. They simply couldn’t. And had a certain rapper/producer/actor/NBA team owner/certified sports agent been able to fit those working diligently to strike gold in a much more suitable pair of jeans, he wouldn’t have been able to. Amazon.com wasn't primed and there was nothing that Brown could do for you.

And while the 49ers have now solidified their future home on the ‘field of jeans’, the Rams look for stadium answers in the midst of uncertainty. There’s no guarantee the team and the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission [CVC] are going to be able to reach an agreement. The Rams believe it’s going to take upwards of $700-$800mil in order to provide the team and it’s fans a top tier facility. The CVC offered up a whopping $124 for renovations.

So what’s next? If Levi’s were designed for 49ers, and are still a fit for them today [as the 49ers' owner suggests], then what kind of partnership can be formed between the Rams and a corporate juggernaut whose products represent the team’s brand and the values it's been built upon…since 2012? I’ve got a suggestion, and I hope Stan Kroenke is listening.

The Kent Mustache Comb Dome

Sure, St. Louis is known for having some very successful sports teams. But they’re also known for being the home of one of the world’s finest mustaches.

When Jeff Fisher chose to take the head coaching job for the Rams prior to the 2012 season, it was only a matter of time before the craze took over the "Show Me State", and extended to members of Rams Nation all over the world. For those with minimal disposable income, a simple Sharpie® finger over the top lip would suffice. Others - who hate getting their hands dirty - simply applied the permanent marker to their upper lip. Some formed chocolate-shaped mustaches on sticks, and others put Dateline NBC’s Chris Hansen on high alert when they went all natural.

The Rams recognized that people from all walks of life, or maybe just those who aren’t capable of growing such a find facial accessory, wanted a stache. They were yearning for one. And the organization stepped up in a big way at the team’s 2012 season opener, by giving the entrants the "Fisher Stache."

Many of these stache’s have gone un-groomed for the better part of one calendar year, though. Enter Kent; the world’s finest maker of Mustache Combs. Unlike Levi’s - who have been established for a meager 130 years - Kent’s reputation has been preceding itself since 1777. That’s older. Much older. And while those looking to strike it rich in the late 1700’s may have been pantless as a result of Strauss's procrastination, Kent was there to meet all of their mustache-ial needs.

The company’s slogan "The Perfect Companion For Your Mustache Grooming Journey" is fitting. The arrival of the team’s new head coach and the addition of your top lip food preserver can, and more so - should - accompany one another as the Rams’ venture to right their ship. What better way to show the fans you appreciate them on September 8th’s home opener against the Arizona Cardinals than by saying "Hey, you’ve got a mustache. You should comb it!"?

Kent is probably going to require the assistance of the Rams faithful to make this deal work. For the most part, Kent mustache comb’s run about $6. The 49ers new stadium will cost approximately $1.2bil, with $220mil coming from the aforementioned jean-maker. That’s about 36,700,000 stache combs. I’ll trust that if you’re interested in keeping the Rams in St. Louis, you’ll not only be willing to fork over the $6 to maintain the freshest of mustaches, but that you’ll also be telling 2,000 of your friends.

This deal may not be in the cards. To be fair, it’s not even in the beginning stages of negotiation. I’m really the only person on the planet that’s thought this was a good idea. That’s a pretty powerful thing, when you consider every idea started with one person at some point and I'm a person. I checked with a number of people, and at least half agree I'm a person, so there you are...

At a minimum, just say ‘Comb Dome’ in a voice similar to a guy who does the voice-overs for scary movie trailers, and tell me it doesn't sound like an awesome place to be beat up on some acid-washed jean wearing 49ers.

St. Louis Rams: A Tough Year For Two Players To “Break Out"

Brandon Bate — Sun, 12 May 2013 01:41:53 -0000

Of the four Rams’ [offensive] skill position rookies from 2012, two contributed regularly in the offense and sometimes in a very big way. Fourth round selection Chris Givens was the Rams biggest deep threat. His incredible exhibition of speed and hands were put on display in Weeks 4-8, when he caught five deep balls for 50[+] yards. The other rookie - Daryl Richardson - won the backup running back gig prior to the onset of the regular season, and never looked back.

Neither of the two aforementioned rookies were world-beaters, but those expectations were at a minimum considering the team selected a player at both of their positions earlier in the draft. Their contributions, though, were not only critical in a few of the Rams' victories, but showed the Rams coaching staff what they were capable of doing when called upon.

Are either ‘locks’ as starters this year? I'd say one more than the other. Chris Givens did little in 2012 to suggest that he’s not going to be in the huddle in Week 1. Outside of the dreaded "I" word, Rams fans should expect to see more of the same from Givens: blowing by defenders and making big plays… regularly. For Richardson, the road to hearing Sam Bradford’s first play call in 2013 is going to be a bit more difficult, but "do-able". Regardless, the coaches, fans, and their opponents should expect both players to be slightly more dangerous with a year of experience under their belt.

But what about the draftees who may not have impacted the team’s offense as immediately as the fans would’ve liked? Things may have gotten a little tougher for them if they were hoping to have ‘breakout’ year…

Brian Quick, WR - Selected 33rd Overall

If you’ve followed the Rams in any capacity over the course of the past few seasons, you know the 2012 NFL Draft was chock full of wide receiver(WR) prospects the Rams could’ve targeted. Justin Blackmon was the biggest name in the WR pool last year, but trading back with the Redskins took them out of the running for the Nation’s most sought after receiver. Blackmon wasn’t the only wideout taken between 5th overall and when the Rams were put on the clock at the start of Day 2. There were still plenty of notable names available at the time.

The Rams taking Quick with the first pick of the second round was a bit of a surprise. Ok, it was many bits of a surprise. Stephen Hill, Alshon Jeffery, and Rueben Randle were all still available when the Rams chose the small school prospect from Appalachian State. More than a few heads were scratched, I’m sure.

Bust? C’mon now. Quick’s 11 catches for 156 yards are far from stellar, but head coach Jeff Fisher made it crystal clear he wasn't going to be rushed onto the field. For those of you who fear a Mardy Gilyard-length stay in St. Louis, I’ll ask that you Keep Calm and…well you know the rest.

With that being said, Quick’s draft selection doesn’t immediately ink him into the starting rotation. While Givens left little doubt that he can compete at the next level, Quick only showed flashes of what the Rams expected when they drafted him, and did little to paint himself as consistent or reliable.

The potential targets for both Quick and Givens became more uncertain when the team not only traded up to 8th overall [to grab Tavon Austin], but took his teammate - wide receiver Stedman Bailey - three rounds later. If the coaching staff hasn’t already fallen in love with their new receiving threats from WVU, the fan base has. Those two were the nucleus of one of the Nation’s most potent offenses. There’s little reason to think that either of these WR’s can’t contribute in the Rams offense immediately. With the loss of Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson, it may be more an expectation that they do.

Surpassing 156 yards in 2013 is far below the minimum expectation for Brian Quick in the upcoming season. And fortunately for him, despite the new additions, he’s got something that none of the other Rams’ wideouts do: size [6’3”]. But with Chris Givens looking to use his 698-yard, team-leading rookie campaign as a stepping stone, and the addition of the rookie Mountaineers, having a ‘breakout’ season might not be in the cards for what was essentially a first round pick in 2012.

Isaiah Pead, RB - Drafted 50th Overall

By this point - even if you’re the newest of Rams fan - you know that Pead was not the team’s "go-to" rushing option when Steven Jackson needed a break. As I mentioned earlier, Daryl Richardson had not only surpassed Pead on the depth chart, but has shown big play ability from the onset of the season. It wasn’t until Week 6 that Pead got his very first carry in the NFL, and after that carry, he averaged one yard per attempt. There would be six more games between that carry and the end of the regular season where he remained absent in the Rams offensive play-calling.

Bust? Certainly not. But unlike Quick - who showed flashes of what a size and speed combination could do for Sam and the Rams offense - Pead’s highlight reel as a Ram is shorter than Titus Young’s. There simply weren’t many plays where he made you second guess the staff’s decision to call upon Daryl Richardson.

Pead can be a very good running back in the NFL. He’s got the talent, but he’s got to find a way to make plays when it counts. And if there’s one thing he can improve upon, it’s being decisive and finding ways to get north and south; something Richardson did well.

There’s one quality both of these RB’s lack though: power. Terrance Ganaway - a 6th round selection acquired from the Jets - was a complete non-factor in 2012. With Steven Jackson gone, though, there will be a need for a back who can punch it in in goal line situations.

Unfortunately for all of the above, the Rams traded both of their 6th round picks in this most recent draft to trade up and snag Vanderbilt RB Zac Stacy; a player who may not possess elite speed, but displays tremendous power and the ability to turn nothing into something. Trading up with] two picks to take Stacy, speaks to Les Snead and Jeff Fisher's thoughts on his potential in the offense. He may be the most complete back on the Rams' roster at this point…

"Zac is a very explosive runner. He's an outstanding young man, smart, good out of the backfield, pass protector; he's a complete back. He's a strong inside, kind of power runner that kind of gives us a change of pace. You can't have too many of these guys." - Jeff Fisher

Pead admittedly struggled to transition from college to the NFL, and is hungry to prove himself in 2013. It’s going to be a crowded backfield in St. Louis, and that’ll make it much more difficult for Isaiah Pead to have a ‘breakout’ season.

Poll

Which Of These 2012 Rams Rookies Is Primed For A Breakout Season?

Random Ramsdom: St. Louis Rams News & Happy Birthday Jake Long!

Brandon Bate — Thu, 09 May 2013 04:33:55 -0000

* Rams' rookie linebacker - Alec Ogletree - doesn’t get into the mumbo jumbo of how he’s going to make a play. But he will tell you where he’s going to meet the opposition.

* The Rams traded up [with two 6th round picks] into the 5h round to draft RB Zac Stacy. They also have last year’s 2nd, 6th (Jets), and 7th round selections, Isaiah Pead, Terrance Ganaway, and Daryl Richardson. Yet this Free Agent is a fit for the Rams…

* The 49ers are a very good football team. They’ve got the running back to match. You can put all the players in the box you want, because Frank Gore just doesn’t care.

* This RotoWorld article was written in terms of fantasy football, but when using the word "impact" in regards to a rookie’s performance, you might as well be prognosticating their upcoming season’s stats. There are two Rams on this list. Should there be more?

* Sports Illustrated's Peter King provides us with some excellent dialogue from the Rams' War Room from Day 1 of this most recent NFL Draft. You want to know what was really going on that night?

* The Rams own two of the finest sets of legs in the NFL. Kicker Greg "The Leg" Zuerlein, and Punter Johnny Hekker proved more than capable in their rookie season’s. Tavon Austin could seriously upgrade the return game, but he’s not the only rookie who can make an impact on special teams.

* "And welcome to another Sunday NFL matchup here at Juicy Jeans Stadium in St. Louis… " I was just throwing that out there. If the 49ers can have a denim stadium, why can’t the Rams?

* This is in no way related to the Rams, or the NFC West, but Ronde Barber is hanging up the cleats. After 16 years in the NFL, he’s decided it’s time to retire. A career of that length shouldn’t go without recognition…on any football site.

* Russell Wilson and Colin Kaepernick have become the poster boys for ‘one player can change a team’s fate.’ Cardinals Head Coach Bruce Arians believes it, and this is what he did about it.

* Bleacher Report takes a stab at the NFL’s offensive power rankings. I know how impatient Rams Nation can get, so here… your St. Louis Rams.

* And last - but certainly not least - I’d ask you all to wish Jake Edward Long a very happy 28th birthday. The Rams new left tackle was certainly one of the NFL’s most noted Free Agency acquisitions of the 2013 offseason. #WhileWaiting4Jake may have taken longer than you would’ve liked, but the Rams landed one of the premier Left Tackles in all of football. You can share your appreciation - and your Birthday wishes - with one of the classiest members of Rams Nation - Mrs. Long - at @jackielong_17 on Twitter.

St. Louis Rams and Situational Sam Bradford

Brandon Bate — Tue, 07 May 2013 21:50:07 -0000

In 2010, Sam Bradford - in his rookie season - lead the Rams to victory seven times. There was no question he’d be the guy to do it, coming off the one win season which afforded the Rams the opportunity to draft him. An impressive showing as a rookie, the NFL rewarded the draft’s 1st overall selection with the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

Two years later [2012], Bradford once again picked the Rams up from a forgettable season prior, and lead the team to another seven win season. It was the second time in his young career that he finished the season just shy of a .500 record, while also being the second full [16 game] campaign.

Let’s take a look at how he finished out each of his seasons statistically.

Year

G

Att

Comp

Comp%

Yds

TD

Int

Rating

2010

16

590

354

60.0

3,512

18

15

76.5%

2012

16

551

328

59.5

3,702

21

13

82.6%

It’s fair to say there’s been progress. The jury is still out [and they won’t be back for about seven more months] on whether or not his body of work has reached expectations. But that’s another topic altogether…

The Company He Keeps

Everyone enjoys a good comparison. If you were wondering how Bradford ranked amongst the other NFL QB’s at season’s end or the play-callers he found himself sandwiched by, you’re in luck! I just so happen to have that information.

In 2010:

Rank	Player	⇣Yds	TD	INT	Rating
11	Joe Flacco	3,622	25	10	93.6%
12	Sam Bradford	3,512	18	15	76.5%
13	Josh Freeman	3,451	25	6	95.9%

...and in 2012:

Rank	Player	⇣Yds	TD	INT	Rating
14	Joe Flacco	3,817	22	10	87.7%
15	Sam Bradford	3,702	21	13	82.6%
16	Andy Dalton	3,669	27	16	87.4

I bet you saw it, too. Sam Bradford is really good at finishing right behind Joe Flacco in season’s where he wins seven games. And contrary to the improved stat lines from 2010 to 2012, Sam found himself farther from the Top 10 QB’s than in his rookie season.

Pass Plays for Six

It’s no fault of Bradford’s, but the Rams are not - and have not been - the offensive juggernauts they were in the Greatest Show on Turf era. Scoring touchdowns hasn’t come easy, but Sam certainly hasn’t been surrounded by the lethal weapons the Rams fielded during the GSOT days.

In 2010 - as noted above - Sam ended the season ranked 12th in total passing yards. The 18 touchdowns, ranked 18th in the league. In this most recent season, Bradford finished 15th in overall yardage, and 15th in touchdowns. Add it all together, divide it, carry the 3, multiply by pi if necessary, and what you’ve got is a whole lot of average.

Balls Thrown To the Other Team

Nobody likes it when their team’s Quarterback throws the ball and it’s caught by a player wearing a different colored jersey. Bradford has in no way been accused [nor should he] of being interception-prone. In his rookie season, the 15 picks thrown were good for a four-way tie for 9th place in the league. Two time Super Bowl winner Eli Manning, led the NFL that year with 25 - Three shy of Bradford’s combined 2010 and 2012 totals.

Last season, he was able to further minimize costly/erroneous throws to defenders. And even though that figure was reduced [to 13], Eli Manning decided that he’d start throwing to his own players, and pushed Sam down the rankings to 15th [there it is again] overall.

Let’s Dice It Into Quarters

As I've mentioned, the Rams aren’t typically going to find themselves running away with victory early on in the game... if at all. The games are typically close, and in 2012 a very good Rams defense displayed that games can be won without a 20+ figure under ‘Rams’ on the scoreboard. With that being said, the objective is to score when the offense has the ball. How - and when - that happens is of the utmost importance. ‘Setting the tone’ early in the game can devastate an opponent, build confidence in the offense, and ultimately put the team in a better position to succeed. Having to come from behind - on the other hand - often leads to desperation, untimely mistakes, and disappointment. Sure, there are instances where a team sneaks up in the waning moments and secures victory. It’s exhilarating. Detroit Lions fans could’ve described it to you after Week 1 of the 2012 season.

Here’s how Bradford has decided he’d like to spread out his TD totals during the 2010 and 2012 seasons. Anything stand out?

In 2012, he threw four TD’s during Qtr’s 1-3, and then drastically increased that figure to nine in the 4th Qtr. You know what that means... In 2010, the 2nd Qtr was Sam’s time to shine, as he scored eight of his 18 TD’s just before the halftime festivities. Carrying momentum into the locker room is one thing... trying to gain it in the final 15 minutes is another.

As you’re well aware at this point, the Rams won seven games last season. BUT, did you know that the Rams headed into the 4th Qtr trailing in ten of their games, and were tied in one? That means there were only five games in 2012 where the Rams entered the final 15 minutes not playing from behind, and hoping to score as precious seconds ticked off the clock.

Let’s be fair: The expectations for Sam Bradford are high. Deservedly so too. He was indeed a No. 1 overall selection, and fans of the team know what it’s like to have an extremely dangerous offense, and long for the days when the Rams offense fires on all cylinders again. He does deserve his fair shake, though.

The bolstered competency of the Rams’ coaching staff and management may have arrived at the perfect time in Bradford’s career. He’s being surrounded with legitimate NFL talent, and a more than adequate direction. "Make or break"? Quite honestly, that means very little at this point. At this time next year, I look forward to writing a "Situational Sam" piece where ranking Bradford will need only one digit. I’m seeing very little reason to believe otherwise.

Sam Bradford: The "Make or Break" Season

Brandon Bate — Tue, 07 May 2013 03:08:19 -0000

St. Louis Rams’ Quarterback Sam Bradford is entering a very pivotal fourth year of his NFL career. He’s only played two full seasons out of his three thus far, and he won seven games in both. How’d he perform?

Being taken No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft comes with it’s fair share of expectations. Coupled with the fact he was the last No. 1 pick prior to the implementation of the new Rookie Wage Scale, and you’ve got a situation where criticism can be garnered exponentially.

Regardless of your take on the matter, Sam Bradford - with his 6-year, $76mil contract - is the highest paid rookie player [QB or otherwise] to enter the NFL. That’s not his fault. It’s easy to point fingers though, when the team hasn’t been to the Super Bowl and his successor [at No. 1], Cam Newton, will be paid a whopping $22mil over four years.

Without regard to the paychecks being cut, or the [un]warranted expectations, the proverbial statement - ‘it is what it is’ - rings true heading into the 2013 season. Sam’s play hasn’t been spectacular. It hasn’t taken the Rams to the playoffs. And his play hasn’t earned a trip to the Pro Bowl...

What it has earned him is a heaping helping of doubt, and a "make or break" tag prior to the onset of this season. Expectations? In case you’re not familiar, it’s perfectly normal to look at Bradford’s rookie contract, and then immediately equate it to the desired results. At this point, you’ve probably figured out there’s not much proof in the puddin’.

As fingers naturally do, yours may or may not still be extended in Sam’s direction. It’s ok. Each of your digits serve a purpose. Your pointer finger is built to identify those deserving of blame. Point the one next to your thumb at Bradford if you must, but ask yourself whether or not it’s truly warranted.

Sure, QB’s are the prototypical/desired leaders of the offense, make comparisons to Tom Brady and Peyton Manning if you must. I’d argue that Sam was never in a position to take a leadership role in this offense with a personality like Steven Jackson in the locker room/on the field. Regardless, drawing comparisons to two of the NFL’s greatest QB’s is the true injustice. But that’s just my opinion...

As luck would have it, our opinions seem to carry the same amount of weight for Sam Bradford and the Rams organization. For those who care what the Rams’ Head Coach thinks, one of the reasons Jeff Fisher chose St. Louis over Miami wasn’t the weather... It was the Quarterback. A well thought out, calculated career decision, Fisher opted for a play-caller with promise.

Sam and the Rams jumped from two wins in 2011 to seven wins in 2012. It marked the second time in Sam’s young career that he finished a full season. It was also the second time he finished a full season with a losing record.

A "Make or Break" Season?

You’ve heard it. Some may have initiated this phrase after the Rams 2-14 season in 2011. After you’ve lead your team to seven wins in your rookie campaign, it’s not acceptable to slip back into the gutter of the NFL. It happens...and you’re not alone if you’re a fan who thinks it.

RT @noplanb_ Would you say this is a make or break year for Sam Bradford? ... Yes. His guaranteed money runs out in 2014.
— Evan Silva (@evansilva) May 6, 2013

And there you have it. Let’s lay the debate to rest. In May of 2012, Bradford restructured his contract - converting $6mil of his $12 base salary into a signing bonus - giving him the money up front. The result: no guaranteed money for Bradford in 2014 or 2015. For the Rams, the decision to retain [or replace] Bradford may just hinge upon his success - or lack thereof - in 2013.

To quote Silva from his Post-Draft NFL Lineup Rankings:

It's put-up or shut-up time for Bradford, who is now surrounded by the best supporting cast and pass protection of his thus-far pedestrian career.

What he’s saying is fair...to an extent. The Ram, prior to drafting Bradford, have not had the quality of coaching staff, nor the surrounding talent on offense that they’ll field in 2013. Then again, the offense will be based more on potential than proven talent.

In season’s past, when the wide receivers and offensive line have been on the opposite end of your pointer finger, it’s been easy to make excuses for Sam Bradford. Just know that while you’ve made excuses for him, he’s made none for himself or his team.

2013 may or may not be a "make or break" year for Sam Bradford. He hasn’t always had control of his destiny, and the upcoming season will be no exception. Luckily, it may just be a year in which he’s provided the coaching - and surrounded with the talent - to quiet the doubters.

St. Louis Rams Rookie Numbers Revealed

Brandon Bate — Mon, 06 May 2013 23:19:15 -0000

The St. Louis Rams’ rookies have selected the numbers they’ll don on their uniforms. Let’s see what jersey numbers the newest Rams’ will be wearing in 2013.

The Rams official website revealed their rookie numbers on Monday afternoon. Without further ado:

Tavon Austin, WR – No. 11
Alec Ogletree, LB – No. 52
T.J. McDonald, S – No. 25
Stedman Bailey, WR – No. 12
Barrett Jones, OL – No. 67
Brandon McGee, CB – No. 32
Zac Stacy, RB – No. 30

Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey sported No.’s 1 and 3, respectively, at WVU. Now closer than ever, the WR duo will wear No. 11 and No. 12 for the Rams. Having chosen those numbers, three of the Rams most dangerous offensive weapons - Austin, Bailey, & Chris Givens - are the owners of No.’s 11-13.

Additionally, No. 32 wasn't vacant for long. McGee - who replaces Bradley Fletcher in the Rams secondary - has chosen to switch from No. 21 [which he wore at Miami] to No. 32. In actuality, none of the Rams rookies selected to wear the same number as they sported in college.

As Rams news typically does, it spread like wildfire to the masses, and you can purchase the uni of one of the Rams' two first round selections right now. Head over to NFLshop.com to get your Austin or Ogletree jersey ASAP. It’s going to be pricy, but if you’re as lucky as Robert Quinn finding the money necessary to purchase your new threads won’t be difficult.

Searching for the remote and found it in my couch right beside this tho....lucky me twitter.com/RQuinn94/statu…
— Robert Quinn (@RQuinn94) May 6, 2013

Here’s to hoping you’ve got 20 remotes. Happy couch scavenging!

St. Louis Rams: Sam Bradford And His 2013 Targets

Brandon Bate — Sun, 05 May 2013 13:29:11 -0000

The St. Louis Rams seemingly have a new cast of wide receivers each season. The revolving door used to welcome the new - and oust the old - has been in constant motion for longer than the organization [and it’s fans] would prefer.

Players like Donnie Avery, Laurent Robinson, Danario Alexander, Mike Sims-Walker, and Mardy Gilyard are just a few names on a long list of wideouts who simply didn’t pan out; whether it be for production or health concerns. And whether they were [un]drafted or acquired via trade/free agency, their stat lines typically matched their stay in St. Louis: short.

2013 will not be an exception in the ’new faces in new places’ movement for the Rams. There’s a different sense of comfort with the corps of wide receivers heading into the upcoming season, though. ‘Promising’ might be the most fitting way to describe the outlook, but ‘Experienced’ they are not.

The Rams ‘veteran’ receiver is Austin Pettis (24), who was drafted in 2011. With the exodus of Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson this past March, the Rams were left with only Pettis and two of 2012’s rookie class - Brian Quick and Chris Givens - on the roster. Each brings something different to the field, but three WR’s certainly wasn’t going to round out the depth chart.

Re-uniting with the coach who had originally drafted him, the Rams signed TE Jared Cook this offseason, and it wasn’t in an effort to bolster the Rams’ ability to run/pass block. Cook has the size and speed to create mismatches, oftentimes lines up in the slot, and will certainly be utilized as a receiving option for Sam Bradford.

It was clear, though, that GM Les Snead and Jeff Fisher weren’t done addressing the need for dynamic play-makers who can make something special happen with the ball in their hands. The Rams surprised their fans in April’s draft when they traded up to the 8th overall spot [w/ Bills] to select one of the nation’s most electric play-makers in Tavon Austin. Potentially more surprising, was when they double-dipped in the WVU receiver pool by drafting fellow Mountaineer Stedman Bailey in the 3rd round. Raise your hands if you thought the Rams would’ve taken two wide-outs from the same school in the draft. That’s what I thought…

And though the general consensus is that the Rams were wise to bring in Cook, Austin, and Bailey [and allow Amendola, Gibson, and Steve Smith to walk], there are no certainties that immediate production value will be realized. Brian Quick is a prime example. Quick - drafted 33rd overall in 2012 - didn’t provide the numbers that his draft selection would’ve lead you to believe. The good news, though, is that Quick is healthy, every bit of 6’4" and primed for a breakout in his sophomore season.

There are certainly a lot of questions to ponder in regards to how [and how often] each of the Rams WR’s/TE’s are going to be utilized in the offense in 2013. Chris Givens not only lead the team in receiving yards last season, but showed that he can be a legitimate deep threat in the NFL, having caught five passes over 50 yard - in consecutive games. Quick is still the Rams tallest WR, and clearly a viable option in red zone situations. Jared Cook spent a healthy amount of time lining up in the slot while with the Titans. He seemed a likely fit as a replacement for Amendola. But where do the Rams intend on lining up Tavon Austin? Stedman Bailey?

A good looking bunch, no? If you haven’t taken a moment to do so, please do. The Rams now have a youthful group of receivers who provide flexibility and versatility to the passing attack. Seeing how Bradford and the coaching staff intends on using each of their skill sets is going to be interesting. More so, how do they intend on ‘spreading the love’?

Targeting the Mountaineers

Mountaineers [now Jets] QB Geno Smith threw for 4,205 yards in 2012, targeting his receivers 518 times. It’s no secret Austin and Bailey were the first receivers Geno looked for in his progressions. Statistically though, it’s pretty startling just how often he targeted each. It should be noted that there were nine wideouts on the Mountaineers roster…

Player	Targets	Catches	Yards	Target %	TD’s
Tavon Austin	127	100	1,289	24.6%	12
Stedman Bailey	114	72	1,622	22.1%	25

Roughly 47% of the time, Geno aimed at the now-Rams receivers. Who could blame him? The duo accounted for 2,911 of Smith’s 4,205 total passing yards, and 37 of his 44 touchdowns.

Earlier I hinted at how a big body such as Brian Quick or Jared Cook are the ideal red zone targets for Sam Bradford. That opinion would disappoint Stedman Bailey… who lead the Nation in Red Zone Targets-to-TD ratio. Bailey was targeted 24 times in the red zone in 2012, and scored on 14 of those plays (58%). In comparison, Tavon was targeted a mere twelve times, scoring on four (33%).

In a league where a WR’s size continues to gain value by coaches and scouts, 5’10" Stedman Bailey seems to find ways to celebrate in the end zone.

Targeting the Former Titan

The three-headed passing attack in Tennessee [Jake Locker, Matt Hasselbeck, & Rusty Smith] targeted their fellow Titans 540 times in 2012. Jared Cook - who played in only 13 of the team’s games - was the intended receiver on 72 of those plays (13.3%).

Jared Cook	Targets	Catches	Yards	Target %	TD’s
2009	15	9	74	1.9%	0
2010	45	29	361	6.1%	1
2011	82	49	759	14%	3
2012	72	44	523	13.3%	4

It would appear there should be no concern with Cook’s selfish desire to be a large part of the Rams’ passing game. Or is there? In October of 2012, rumors began to swirl that he’d asked the Titans to trade him.

To be fair, every NFL receiver wants the ball in their hands. At a glance, the Tight End was rarely in a position to see that realized. Through the first eight games of 2012, Cook played in less than 50% of the team’s snaps and rarely was targeted. Less than six months later, he’s playing for Jeff Fisher again.

Do you hear that Sam Bradford? You’ve got a TE who’s hungry for the ball. Do you intend on targeting him on more than 13.3% of your passes?
Only one [remaining] Rams wideout from 2012 was targeted more often than Cook was for the Titans…

Targeting Familiar Faces

If the Rams strategy was to replace it’s highest targeted players from 2012 with the most frequently targeted players from West Virginia University, then all is going according to plan. Sam Bradford’s safety blanket [Amendola] is now a Patriot, and his next favorite target [Gibson] took his talents to South Beach.

Just how do Bradford’s 557 targets from the past season break down amongst his intended receivers? [note: this does not cover all of his targets]

Player	Targets	Catches	Yards	Target %	TD’s
Danny Amendola*	101	63	666	18.1%	3
Brandon Gibson*	82	51	691	14.7%	5
Chris Givens	81	42	698	14.5%	3
Lance Kendricks	64	42	519	11.5%	4
Steven Jackson*	54	38	321	9.7%	0
Austin Pettis	47	30	261	8.4%	4
Daryl Richardson	36	24	163	6.4%	0
Brian Quick	28	11	156	5%	2

* denotes a player no longer on the team

One thing you can be certain about is Bradford having a new favorite target in 2013. More indefinite - and intriguing - is who Bradford will throw to in crunch time. At this point, Chris Givens is probably the only receiver on the roster that has shown the reliability that every signal-caller desires.

Lance Kendricks displayed better hands last season, but a shaky offensive line forced him to utilize his blocking skills more often than not. The addition of Cook - whose ability to run/pass block are nothing to rave about - could potentially cut into Kendricks share of looks.

And if Sam simply decides that he’ll keep things status quo with 557 passes, he can utilize his pass-catchers [old and new] in the exact same fashion they were used in 2012 and account for 99.4% of all of his targets. I’m not sure that Brian Quick or Jared Cook would be too thrilled with the result, but Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey would see the ball thrown their way 137 and 123 times, respectively. When was the last time the Rams had two Pro Bowl receivers again?

It’s fair to assume that Austin and Bailey are not going to see that kind of production in their rookie campaigns; not to say that they cannot find success. If Brian Quick can finish the season with stats similar to those of his rookie counterpart [Givens] from 2012, the organization and it’s fans would have to be encouraged. And by all accounts, the Rams offensive line should be much improved [if healthy] this season. That should provide both Cook and Kendricks the opportunity to create mismatches against the opposition’s defense, and hopefully catch Bradford’s eye when open.

Regardless of how often they’re called upon, the Rams passing attack is going to look very different in 2013. Though uncertain, it’s going to be very interesting to see how each of the aforementioned receiving threats are utilized in the offense. It’s refreshing to see the plethora of weapons the organization has provided Sam Bradford.

We’ll have to wait and see how he chooses to target them.

Poll

Vote For Sam Bradford’s NEW Safety Blanket

Brian Quick

48 votes

Chris Givens

142 votes

Tavon Austin

374 votes

Stedman Bailey

236 votes

Jared Cook

333 votes

Lance Kendricks

22 votes

Austin Pettis

27 votes

1182 votes | Poll has closed

Random Ramsdom: St. Louis Rams, NFL Draft Grades, & Undrafted Free Agents

Brandon Bate — Wed, 01 May 2013 23:49:37 -0000

Alright, let’s kick this one off with some celebration. More, you ask? If you’re not still wearing your lucky Rams shirt [est. 4/25/13] then you weren’t watching the same NFL Draft as me. Also, you probably smell better than I do. But I digress…

Let’s all take a second to recognize the birthday of the one, the only, William Quintin Hayes. The Rams’ defensive end reunited with his first NFL coach - Jeff Fisher - when he signed with the Rams in April of 2012. Hayes, now 28, enjoys relatively short walks on the beach, Mike Tyson’s Punch Out, the album Late Night Sax, and punishing Russell Wilson.

Now, onto the good stuff. I’ll warn you, though…if you came here to check on how the Lakers are holding up in the playoffs, or hear a British accent tell you how they think Jack Nicholson….err, Nicklaus…the one who’s doesn’t enjoy showing off his pearly whites through a hole in a hollow core interior door, then you’ve come to the wrong place. If you’re as smart as I think you are, then you’ll enjoy reading about some pretty relevant - mostly quality - NFL/St. Louis Rams News…

* He hasn't gotten to the NFC West just yet, but if you’re looking for some post draft grades for teams whose rookies have yet to play a single second of NFL football, then Bucky Brooks has got what you’re looking for. Note that the NFC West will be posted on May 3rd. Tune in to see the world continue to praise the Seahawks and 49ers ad nauseum.

* Which teams had the best undrafted free agent hauls? Not the team who should have drafted Eddie Lacy in the 1st round.

* You would think that NFL teams would want to be starting the players they’ve drafted in the initial seven rounds of the draft. Well, you’d be wrong.
Would you believe it if I told you that 20% of the NFL’s starters entered the league as UDFA’s? No? You calling me a liar?

* The Arizona Cardinals traded a fullback that you’ve probably never heard of for a Cornerback you may have. The Cards acquired former 2nd round corner Javier Arenas… in hopes of thwarting Quick, Givens, Pettis, Cook, Austin, & Bailey. Ha!

* Remember when Robert Griffin III did the stanky leg? His mental recovery seems to be a bit slower than his physical. He gets it now.

Rams’ GM Les Snead keeps it real about his feelings during the draft, as a few of the players slipped away from their grasp. Also, if you’re concerned about the Rams taking Safety T.J. McDonald in the 3rd round, you should know something… Jeff Fisher was worried he’d be gone. That, and more, can be seen/heard here.

* Mike Sando and Matt Williamson revisit the NFC West’s post-draft Offensive Line rankings. Go ahead…hold your breath prior to clicking the link. Nothing’s going to surprise you here. That is unless you’ve got dial-up internet…in which case you might want to cheat and breathe through your nose.

* Pro Football Talk: Former Ram - Kyle Turley - opens up about his fears of brain damage, and how it affects him in his daily life. That concussions are having an impact on the life of the former NFL player is evident in his dialogue.

* Pro Football Focus: PFF Covers the top 101 players of 2012. You’re not going to find a single St. Louis Rams player in numbers 101-91, or 90-81, or 80-71, or 70-61, 60-51, ooorrrr 50-41. Take that Rams fans! 60% down, with only 40 more non-Rams to mention.

* Nat’l Football Post: Oh, you haven’t had enough draft you say? It’s only fair to assume that prior to the first snap of the 2013 regular season we look forward to what College Football will be offering us all in the 2014 Draft.

* Nat’l Football Post: NFP grades each of the 2013 NFL Draft’s trades. Not sold on the trade up for Tavon Austin? Loving what the Rams did to acquire Zac Stacy? Let’s see if it was worth it.

* St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Vegas hates the Rams, so St. Louis brought in a guy or two who stand no chance of making the final 53. Plus. Brady Poppinga can’t play sports so he wants to write about them. You can read about it all right here.

* St. Louis Rams Official Site: Rookie corner Brandon McGee is excited to a part of the Rams organization. Jeff Fisher likes what he brings to the team, both on defense and special teams. McGee is looking forward to playing for Fisher…who wouldn’t?

* St. Louis Rams Official Site: VIDEO - Alec Ogletree tells a camera that he’s going to be one of the best players the Rams have ever had. Jeff Fisher tells him he’s a Ram…and I got goosebumps.

St Louis Rams: A Crowded Backfield

Brandon Bate — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:26:51 -0000

The St. Louis Rams rushing attack - dating back to the Greatest Show on Turf era - has consistently proven to be a strong suit for the team. Now Hall-of-Famer Marshall Faulk exhilarated fans as we entered the new century, then handed the torch to future Hall-of-Famer [now Falcon] Steven Jackson.

A new generation is about to commence. The Rams roster currently has four RB's who have totaled 108 rushing attempts in their combined NFL careers. 98 of those attempts belong to a player who was the next to last selection in the 2012 draft; Daryl Richardson. The remaining depth from last season is comprised of 2nd round [50th overall] RB Isaiah Pead, and a player the Rams claimed off waivers [from Jets], 6th rounder Terrance Ganaway.

It’s fair to say that there’s a bit of uncertainty about who the Rams starter is, or how the carries are going to be dispersed amongst the group this season. Based on how high the Rams took Pead - despite the lackluster results - the coaching staff drafted him to be ‘the guy,’ so he should expect to see more than the 10 carries he amassed in the entirety of his rookie season.

Richardson proved to be a viable backup option to spell Steven Jackson, and established his role in the Rams offense as early as Week 1 of the regular season. He displayed flashes big play ability, most notably in the Redskins game where he broke off a 53 yard run down the sidelines, which ultimately lead to a Rams touchdown.

Ganaway was a non-factor. He brings something to the backfield that Pead and Richardson do not: Power. All of 240 lbs., Ganaway possesses the size and strength to punch it in at the goal line. There was not a single snap in 2012 where the Rams attempted to exercise either of those measurables.

Enter Zac Stacy. With the 160th overall selection in this most recent draft, the Rams traded two 6th round picks to move up into the 5th round and take the Vanderbilt running back. In doing so, the Rams made Stacy the only Vanderbilt rusher to have been drafted within the initial seven rounds of the NFL Draft in the modern era. He’s the only running back in school history to run for back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons. At 216 lbs, he also possesses the strength and toughness that the Rams rushing attack could use. And though he’s not known for having elite speed, his character is as strong as his legs, and his ability to break tackles oftentimes turns plays for losses into 2-3 yard gains.

As you can see, it’s become a bit crowded in a backfield ripe with youth and potential. The pertinent question is how the coaching staff intends on utilizing each. I think there’s no question that we’re going to see a running back by committee approach this season. But who gets the starting carries in the timeshare?

Pead recently noted that he’s ready to put a ‘miserable’ rookie campaign behind him. And though opening up about his struggles to transition from college to the pros is comforting to some, I seriously doubt that Daryl Richardson is willing to step aside and simply hand over a role he worked very hard to earn in 2012. Not to say that he’d be the heir apparent simply because he toted the rock more often than Pead last year, but there’s little to room to argue in regards to who was taking the field when Jackson needed a breather.

Ganaway appears to be the biggest question mark at this point. The Rams carried four rushers last season, with Ganaway rounding out the bottom of the depth chart. I wouldn’t think that he’s in jeopardy of being cut from the team at this point, but the addition of Stacy [who’s most certainly a lock] and the complete absence of playing time for Ganaway in 2012 makes you wonder what [if any] role there is for him in this offense.

It’s going to be interesting to see how the depth chart rounds out as we move through the remainder of the spring and summer. The rushing game has been a crutch the Rams have relied on for several consecutive years now. The draft provided Sam Bradford with a few new toys to throw to, so maybe the offense won’t rely as much on rushing for offensive efficiency. Or maybe one of the aforementioned backs will be utilized as another receiving threat for this offense.

There are few certainties about exactly how each of these running backs are going to be utilized this fall. One thing that is definite, though, is competition. These RB’s are going to be involved in a roster battle from the time spring training starts. When the dust settles, one will be named the team’s starter.

Figuring out how - and how often - to use each of their talents is going to be a challenge. If locating the bright spot amongst the gray proves difficult, I suggest they simply hand the ball off to Tavon Austin.

St. Louis Rams: Did They Do Enough At Safety?

Brandon Bate — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 14:23:41 -0000

At the conclusion of the 2012 season, the St. Louis Rams parted ways with both of their starting safeties. In a move that made most Rams fans smile, Craig Dahl was shipped to the 49ers. As if fans were anticipating playing the 49ers games enough, they can now look forward to Dahl allowing coverage to break down against players like Brian Quick, Chris Givens, and Austin Pettis……oh, and Jared Cook, Tavon Austin, and Stedman Bailey.
Quintin Mikell is still available in free agency. Mikell played very well for the Rams in 2012, but his 2013 price tag [$9mil against the cap] was more than the Rams saw as salary cap feasible.

With those two gone, the Rams were left with a bevy of ‘unproven players at safety? The veteran amongst the bunch - Darian Stewart - has played well "at times"... If trying to find deeper meaning in the term ‘at times,’ it can be better defined as ‘not very much….and behind Craig Dahl.’ And though his position on the depth chart has many fans scratching their heads, Stewart is still viewed as a viable starting option at Strong Safety for the Rams in 2013. Prior to the 2013 NFL Draft, the post-Dahl/Mikell corps of safeties didn’t scream blue chip talent. Behind Stewart - who went undrafted in 2010 - is more of the same, with undrafted free agent depth. Quinton Pointer (SS), Rodney McLeod (FS), and Matt Daniels (FS) were all selected by the Rams in 2012, and all of them were acquired as UDFAs.

Knowing safety was a need - or in need of an upgrade - the good news for the Rams was that the safety position was one of the deepest in the 2013 NFL Draft. Players like Kenny Vaccaro, Matt Elam, Jonathan Cyprien, and Eric Reid had all been previously mocked to the team, and were all within grasp of their two first round picks. So how did it all play out? In case you missed it, they did draft a safety within the confines of the first seven rounds. A safety... One... After addressing two other dire needs - WR and OLB - in the first round, and being void of a 2nd round selection as a result of a trade up to get Tavon Austin, the Rams selected hard-hitting safety T.J. McDonald [USC] at #71 overall. This may not have been the prospect that many fans anticipated, but the McDonald looks to be a lock to start in Week 1. After McDonald, the Rams made one more Day 2 pick [Stedman Bailey], and three on the Draft’s final day. None of them were safeties….though some were available.

The Barrett Jones pick is a very popular pick amongst Rams fans. Honestly, it might be one of their best too. It did, however, come as a result of passing on potential safeties such as Shamarko Thomas, Phillip Thomas, Baccari Rambo, and a slew of others. The Rams weren’t done as time expired on round 7 on Saturday, though. They did pick up some more promising players at safety, who look to push the 2012 UDFA crop and challenge for playing time. As for this year, take a look at two very interesting prospects who could be key in the Rams very near future:

Cody Davis, Safety, Texas Tech - Here’s NFL.com’s take on the Red Raider:

- After witnessing Davis' workout at the Super Regional Combine at Cowboys Stadium, NFL.com and NFL Network analyst Bucky Brooks wrote: "It's hard to find big, physical safeties with speed and movement skills. Davis was not only one of the most impressive athletes in attendance, but he was routinely cited as the highest-rated prospect in the building by several scouts. He certainly didn't disappoint evaluators by putting together a solid overall performance. Davis clocked 40 times in the mid-4.4-second range and continued to pop with impressive measurements in the vertical (41.5 inches) and broad jumps (10-foot-3). Most impressively, Davis showed exceptional change-of-direction quickness in the pro-agility shuttle and three-cone drills as well as during his positional workout. Davis smoothly executed turns and transitions while displaying better-than-anticipated balance and body control for a guy his size (6-2, 203 pounds). He also showed outstanding ball skills, awareness and hands in drills. With defensive coordinators searching for guys capable of matching up with the big-bodied receivers and tight ends dominating the NFL, Davis will certainly garner strong consideration as a potential mid-round selection" - NFL.com

Ray Ray Armstrong, Safety, Miami:

Ray Ray is another very intriguing player who looks to make a name among the bunch of unproven Rams safeties. Armstrong missed the entirety of the 2012 season after being suspended for improper contact with Miami boosters.

He now looks to return to football after a year away from the game, and could prove to be an undrafted gem for the Rams. Here’s what NFL.com’s Gil Brandt had to say last month:

"[Armstrong] could be mid-round selection in the 2013 NFL Draft, possibly as high as the fourth round."

Whether or not either makes the team is a questions for a later date. As for right now, the Rams still have a bit of uncertainty in terms of depth at safety. Darian Stewart, who seems to have be relegated to the dog house during his short stay in St. Louis, currently tops the list of Strong Safeties. Rookie T.J. McDonald should be a lock to start at Free Safety.

How does the rest of the depth chart shake out? Time will tell. There will certainly be competition for backup roles, and it appears that the Rams are comfortable with those spots being filled by undrafted players.

There’s really very little room to question anything Les Snead and Jeff Fisher have done since coming to St. Louis. They certainly look to be set at Wide Receiver. But do you think the Rams did enough in the draft to bolster their depth at safety?

Poll

Are You Comfortable With How The Rams Addressed Safety In The 2013 NFL Draft?

Yes

655 votes

No

378 votes

1033 votes | Poll has closed

St. Louis Rams: 2013 Fashion Sense

Brandon Bate — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 12:54:08 -0000

If you powered down your computer and turned off your television, you probably hand’t heard the news that the St. Louis Rams were showing interest in moving up [from 16] to the 8th overall spot - held by the Buffalo Bills - due to their infatuation with West Virginia wideout Tavon Austin. They weren’t playing around.

Whether or not you were a fan of the trade up is moot. Rams GM Les Snead did it while in Atlanta in 2011. Nobody’s questioning that move at this point.

The Rams also held the 22nd overall pick in Thursday’s first round. Again, you would’ve have to been in a remote cabin location or floating on a piece of driftwood at sea not to know that Les Snead had fielded calls from 20+ NFL teams about trading up [or back] into that spot. The Atlanta Falcons - who must’ve kept Snead on speed dial - ultimately made the move up to 22 to get their guy, Desmond Trufant. The Rams then scooped up one of the draft’s best outside linebackers in Georgia’s Alec Ogletree.

More importantly than who the Rams will be drafting for the remainder of the draft is what you intend on sopping up beer and chicken wing shrapnel with on Sundays [and Thursday/Monday Night].

There are currently no players on the Rams roster who don jerseys with numbers ‘1’ or ‘9.’ Now, I know you’ve grown accustomed to watching the Rams score 13 points in your favorite Marc Bulger uni, but don’t you think it’s time that you upgraded? Nike is making the uniforms now, and...well, your Bulger jersey needs to go. I’m sorry to have to be the one to break that to you. I had to do what your loved ones could not...

So what’s it going to be? If you’re breaking open your Rams piggy bank to purchase some new threads, which of the Rams rookies will you spending your moderately-hard working money on? I should note, these jerseys are not yet available for purchase and neither player has formally stated that they’ll be rocking the numbers. I’m just really good at customizing jerseys on Friday mornings.

The question - regardless of their number - remains. Who’s it going to be?

Poll

Which Rams Rookie Are You Spending Your Dough On?

Tavon Austin

139 votes

Alec Ogletree

13 votes

I’ll Hold Off Until The Draft Is Done

56 votes

208 votes | Poll has closed

Random Ramsdom: NFL Draft Day, 2013

Brandon Bate — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 03:02:37 -0000

Before we jump into the mock draft madness, it’s important that we revisit how the St. Louis Rams roster has been affected by the draft since they moved back to St. Louis in 1995. If you want a recap on 18 years worth of St. Louis Rams drafts [with a dash of Los Angeles goodness] then you’ve come to the right place. It’s the whole kit and kaboodle…it’s a kitten kaboodle…it’s a kid with a poodle.

Now, in someone with the last name Buffer’s voice….LLLEEETTTSSS GET READY TOOOO

CBS Sports Mock Draft

Check out the latest mock drafts from Rob Rang, Dane Brugler, Pat Kirwan, aaaaaand

… Here’s Prisco’s Mock

Spoiler: 16 - Chance Warmack (G), 22 - Eric Reid (S)

NFL.com Mock Draft

You looking for the latest mocks from Gil Brandt, Josh Norris, Bucky Brooks, aaaaand

…Here’s Mayock’s Mock

Spoiler: 16 - Kenny Vaccaro (S), 22 - Alex Ogletree (LB)

WalterFootballl Mock Draft

Spoiler: 16 - Alec Ogletree (LB), 22 - DeAndre Hopkins (WR)

SI's Peter King Mocks The Draft

Spoiler: 16 - Kenny Vaccaro (S), 22 - DeAndre Hopkins (WR)

SI’s NFL Fan Twitter Mock

Spoiler: 16 - Cordarrelle Patterson (WR), 22 - Eric Reid (S)

Fox Sports’ Peter Schrager Mocks The Draft

Spoiler: 16 - Kenny Vaccaro (S), 22 - DeAndre Hopkins (WR)

SBNation’s Dan Kadar Mocks The Draft

Spoiler: 16 - Jonathan Cooper (G), 22 - DeAndre Hopkins (WR)

RotoWorld’s Evan Silva Mocks The Draft

Spoiler: 16 - DeAndre Hopkins (WR), 22 - Kenny Vaccaro (S)

ESPN’s Draft Aficianados Mel Kiper Jr. & Todd McShay Weigh In [via Turf Show Times]

Spoiler: Kiper 16 - Tavon Austin (WR), Kiper 22 - Kenny Vaccaro (S) / McShay 16 - Kenny Vaccaro (S), McShay 22 - Eddie Lacy (RB)

Draft Tek Mock Draft

Spoiler: 16 - Alec Ogletree (LB), 22 - Jonathan Cyprien (S)

Bleacher Report Mocks The Draft

Spoiler: 16 - Kenny Vaccaro (S), 22 - Tavon Austin (WR)

National Football Post Mock Draft [via contributors from FanSided]

Spoiler: 16 - Cordarrelle Patterson (WR), 22 - Matt Elam (S)

The Sideline View Mocks The Draft

Spoiler: 16 - DeAndre Hopkins (WR), 22 - Matt Elam (S)

ProFootball Talk Mocks The Draft

Spoiler: 16 - Cordarrelle Patterson (WR), 22 - Eddie Lacy (RB)

What’s that? Someone in the back was asking for a recap of the aforementioned material. Give me a moment... I know I’ve got it somewhere? Oh, here it is...

Player Mocked at 16

Player Mocked at 22

Tavon Austin

x5

DeAndre Hopkins

x5

Kenny Vaccaro

x5

Eric Reid

x4

Chance Warmack

x3

Matt Elam

x3

Cordarrelle Patterson

x3

Alec Ogletree

x3

DeAndre Hopkins

x2

Kenny Vaccaro

x2

Alec Ogletree

x2

Eddie Lacy

x2

Jonathan Cyprien

x1

Tavon Austin

x1

Eric Reid

x1

Jonathan Cyprien

x1

Cordarrelle Patterson

x1

Player Mocked To The Rams Most In The 1st Round

Tie: Kenny Vaccaro/DeAndre Hopkins (x7)

Well, there’s certainly no arguing the validity of a steaming pile of mock drafts, is there? Kenny Vaccaro is the Rams safety at 16, and you should warm up to the thought of DeAndre Hopkins being the newest Rams WR at 22. I’d like to tell you that there’s some wiggle room, but you just witnessed some serious math. I wish there was more I could do...

I’m sorry to play spoiler [again] but I understand if you no longer want to watch the 1st round of tonight’s NFL Draft. These are the newest Rams... You can rest easy knowing that the organization found it important to address Safety and Wide Receiver on Thursday night.

Stick around TST this weekend, folks. In all seriousness, you’re not going to find more relevant, highly-informed Rams news anywhere else on the web.

Happy Draft Day, Rams Nation!

2013 NFL Draft Countdown: Revisiting the St. Louis Rams 1st Round Picks

Brandon Bate — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:05:07 -0000

The Rams packed up their uniforms and suntan lotion in 1995 and headed east to the Show-Me State. The results - both of their drafts and their season’s success - have been mixed throughout their stay. For those who believe that ‘building through the draft’ has no value, then I’ll assume this is the first time you’re checking in on this NFL Draft Countdown [St. Louis Rams edition] series.

The side bar to your right is the list of what the Rams have been able to accomplish in the first round since moving back to St. Louis.


Year	Pick	Player	Pos	College/Univ
2012	14	Michael Brockers	DT	LSU
2011	14	Robert Quinn	DE	North Carolina
2010	1	Sam Bradford	QB	Oklahoma
2009	2	Jason Smith	T	Baylor
2008	2	Chris Long	DE	Virginia
2007	13	Adam Carriker	DE	Nebraska
2006	15	Tye Hill	DB	Clemson
2005	19	Alex Barron	T	Florida St.
2004	24	Steven Jackson	RB	Oregon St.
2003	12	Jimmy Kennedy	DT	Penn St.
2002	31	Robert W. Thomas	LB	UCLA
2001	12	Damione Lewis	DT	Miami (FL)
2001	20	Adam Archuleta	DB	Arizona St.
2001	29	Ryan Pickett	DT	Ohio St.
2000	31	Trung Canidate	RB	Arizona
1999	6	Torry Holt	WR	North Carolina St.
1998	6	Grant Wistrom	DE	Nebraska
1997	1	Orlando Pace	T	Ohio St.
1996	6	Lawrence Phillips	RB	Nebraska
1996	18	Eddie Kennison	WR	LSU
1995	6	Kevin Carter	DE	Florida

Provided by Pro-Football-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 4/24/2013.

And there you have it. Amongst some of the Rams biggest 1st round busts are also some legends of the game. Players like Orlando Pace, Torry Holt, and Steven Jackson have to be in the conversation for greatest Rams' [at their position] in the history of the organization, regardless of which city they called home.

Lawrence Phillips is a prime example of how 1st round players aren't locks for the Pro-Bowl...or two full seasons. He's not alone, though. Most of what occurred in the 1st round between Torry Holt and Steven Jackson could probably be considered a whiff at this point.

One might argue that it's ‘hard to miss' on early round selections, especially when you're on the clock near the top of the draft. Something that may have drawn your eye is the plethora of 6th overall picks in the first few years in St. Louis. No need to rush back and check the record books; the Rams weren't trading up from 32 in order to take Kevin Carter or Grant Wistrom.

Here's a quick glance at where the Rams were drafting over the course of the past 18 years...

Rd 1 Range	1-8	9-16	17-24	25-32
Since 1995	8	6	3	3

40% of the Rams 1st round selections have come in the first eight overall selections over the past [nearly] two decades of drafts. And though the results - for the most part - lead to players who will forever be ingrained in the minds of fans, the shift from having the majority of the team's picks coming in the first quarter of Round 1 to the latter half would be welcomed. Simply put, having the opportunity to draft the best overall player(s) each year comes at a cost. That cost: a very small number in the regular season's win column.

Tomorrow will mark the beginning of another very important chapter in the Rams near - and potentially distant - future. Over the past seven days, we've seen where the organization did it's homework and reaped the rewards as a result. On the contrary, we've seen situations where players drafted in early, mid, and late rounds have let the team, and it's fans, down.

The Los Angeles Rams also had their fair share of success in the draft. It wouldn't be right not to mention some of the All-Time Rams greats drafted prior to 1995...

Year	Player	Pos	School
1994	Wayne Gandy (15)	OT	Auburn
1993	Jerome Bettis (10)	RB	Notre Dame
1992	Sean Gilbert (3)	DT	Pittsburgh
1991	Toddy Lyght (5)	CB	Notre Dame
1990	Bern Brostek (23)	C	Washington
1989	Bill Hawkins (21)	DT	Miami
	Cleveland Gary (26)	RB	Miami
1988	Gaston Green (14)	RB	UCLA
1987
1986	Mike Schad (23)	G	Queens
1985	Jerry Gray (21)	DB	Texas
1984
1983	Eric Dickerson (2)	RB	S. Methodist

If you've been following along, you've probably formed an irreversible opinion on the subject matter of the Rams success in the draft. Last year's draft was brimming with potential, which quickly turned to promising talent. Will the Rams be able to begin replicating that success on Thursday night?

You be the judge. Somehow I knew you wouldn't mind. Thanks again for sticking around this past week as we covered the last 18 years of NFL Drafts for the St. Louis Rams. Here's to celebrating the future successes of Chris Long, Sam Bradford, Robert Quinn, Michael Brockers and the two [potentially] 1st round picks who'll be welcomed by Rams Nation tomorrow night.

* St. Louis Rams 7th Round Selections
* St. Louis Rams 6th Round Selections
* St. Louis Rams 5th Round Selections
* St. Louis Rams 4th Round Selections
* St. Louis Rams 3rd Round Selections
* St. Louis Rams 2nd Round Selections

Poll

How Would You Grade The Rams Drafts Since Moving Back To St. Louis?

A

3 votes

B

28 votes

C

72 votes

D

69 votes

F

10 votes

182 votes | Poll has closed

2013 NFL Draft Countdown: Revisiting the St. Louis Rams 2nd Round Picks

Brandon Bate — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:10:56 -0000

In case you missed it, we've been covering the St. Louis Rams' draft picks - by round - since 1985; when the team made it's move from LA to St. Louis. Every so often we've sprinkled in some of the unforgettable LA players who simply couldn't be left out. If you're looking to get caught up to speed, pick any round of your choosing... if you dare.

* St. Louis Rams 7th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 6th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 5th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 4th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 3rd Round Selections

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, let's look back at what the Rams accomplished while on the clock in the 2nd round of the NFL Draft...

St. Louis Rams 2nd Round Selections

Year

Pick

Player

Pos

College

2012

33

Brian Quick

WR

Appalachian St.

39

Janoris Jenkins

CB

Florida

50

Isaiah Pead

RB

Cincinnati

2011

47

Lance Kendricks

TE

Wisconsin

2010

33

Rodger Saffold

OT

Indiana

2009

35

James Laurinaitis

LB

Ohio State

2008

33

Donnie Avery

WR

Houston

2007

52

Brian Leonard

RB

Rutgers

2006

46

Joe Klopfenstein

TE

Colorado

2005

50

Ron Bartell

CB

Howard

2004

2003

43

Pisa Tinoisamoa

LB

Hawaii

2002

64

Travis Fisher

CB

Central Florida

2001

42

Tommy Polley

LB

Florida State

2000

62

Jacoby Shepherd

CB

Oklahoma St.

1999

41

Dre Bly

CB

North Carolina

1998

37

Robert Holcombe

RB

Illinois

1997

40

Dexter McCleon

CB

Clemson

1996

42

Tony Banks

QB

Michigan State

59

Ernie Conwell

TE

Washington

1995

38

Zach Wiegert

OT

Nebraska

62

Jesse James

C

Michigan State

Total Number of Rams Draft Picks Since 1995: 156

Total Number of 2nd Round Draft Picks Since 1995: 21
↳ 13.5% of overall picks

The good news is that the Rams aren't trading away their early round picks. As a matter of fact, the ‘new regime' let us know - in 2012 - what they think about trading back and hoarding players in the 2nd round. With two first round picks to utilize this Thursday, is it possible that the Rams have multiple 2nd round picks again this year?

How - moreover whom - they're selecting is another story. Players from 2012's 2nd round draft haul are in no danger of being shipped out of town. Nor is Lance Kendricks. Rodger Saffold may be in the team's long term plans...then again, he may be salty about losing the LT gig to Jake Long. Only time will tell. After James Laurinaitis - who signed a five year contract extension last September - everyone selected from 2008 and beyond are goners.

Donnie Avery could not stay healthy, and remained with the Rams for only two seasons. Two shoulder surgeries for RB Brian Leonard meant he'd play one game in his second season, promptly ending his stay in St. Louis. Klopfenstein's only 16 game campaign was in his rookie season. He played no more than 11 games in the next two years... before getting the boot. He only played in the NFL for four seasons. His career stats read 34 catches, 397 yards, and two TD's. If not for a fractured neck - which put him on IR in 2011 - Ron Bartell might still be a Ram today.

Dre Bly and Dexter McCleon played well in the Rams secondary and both have hardware from Super Bowl XXXIV to show for it. Tony Banks was also really good for the Rams... he was really good at putting the ball in his hands, and then promptly putting it on the ground for anyone around to grab. Starting as a rookie, Banks set a record with 21 fumbles on the year. Next stop: Baltimore.

And with the addition of the 2nd round picks, the Rams have compiled 87.2% of their picks in rounds 2-7. I guess it's no secret at this point, but that leaves on 12.8% of their remaining picks for the 1st [and final] round of the Countdown Series. Here's your breakdown...

Round	1	2	3	4	5	6	7
# of Picks	20	21	21	22	22	17	33
% of Overall [156]	12.8%	13.5%	13.5%	14.1%	14.1%	10.9%	21.1%

We can focus on the 1st rounders tomorrow though. There are some very good 2nd round players listed in the table above, yet there isn't one particular player that's truly left his stamp on the organization the way you'd hope 18 years worth of 2nd round picks would. Memorable? Yes. But one-third of these selections were drafted in the 30's. Just outside of the first round, it's fair to expect that one of those seven players leave a lasting legacy for the team and it's fans. To be fair two of them were selected in 2012, so time is on their side. History may not be...

Don't get me wrong. Several of the Rams' 2nd round picks proved to be very good players. Though some never realized the potential the organization would have preferred to see, others stepped up in big ways and contributed to the team's success. But the best of the Rams 2nd round selections wasn't drafted while in St. Louis... and when you talking about leaving a legacy, there are few that have done it better than the Los Angeles Rams' final 2nd round pick...

The Los Angeles Rams didn't have much trouble finding value in the 2nd round:

* Roman Phifer, OLB [1991] - Selected 31 overall from UCLA
* Flipper Anderson, WR [1988] - Selected 46 overall from UCLA
* Tom Newberry, G [1986] - Selected 50 overall from Wisconsin-La Crosse
* Henry Ellard, WR [1983] - Selected 32 overall from Fresno State
* Nolan Cromwell, DB [1977] - Selected 31 overall from Kansas

With one round left to go, I've got a bit of good news for you. The news is that you're much closer to this year's NFL Draft. I can't make any promises that you'll be pleased with what the Rams have done in the first round of the draft since 1995. Look, I can't make you forget about Jason Smith, ok?! Regardless, tune in tomorrow because we will be covering the Rams 1st round draft picks for the past two decades.

As an aside, I'd like to thank everyone who's checked in at Turf Show Times over the course of the past week to reminisce about the Rams' draft picks [by round] since their move back to St. Louis. Though it hasn't always been pretty, it's eye opening, and certainly helped to jog the memory.

It's often more miss than hit, but there's plenty to be optimistic about with the current state of the Rams and their ability to execute a successful draft. There's hope for the future. Onward and upward!

NFL Draft Countdown: Revisiting the St. Louis Rams 3rd Round Picks

Brandon Bate — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 01:41:13 -0000

Let’s face the facts, folks...What you’ve witnessed since the start of this draft countdown hasn’t been pretty. The Rams have - for the most part - whiffed on the majority of their late round draft picks over the past 18 years. Every round has it’s gems, but the majority of their mid-to-late round picks have been more miss, than hit. If you’ve missed the excitement of revisiting the round-by-round struggles, you can click any of the links below...

* St. Louis Rams 7th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 6th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 5th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 4th Round Selections

...Your moans and groans have been heard loud and clear over the course of the past four days. As each round is revisited, it becomes clearer why the team has struggled to consistently put together winning seasons over the course of the past decade [plus].

As mentioned in the 7th rounders piece - which can be chalked up to common knowledge - it’s far more difficult to find serviceable, retainable, memorable players in the later rounds of the draft. Well, it’s fair to say that we’re beyond that point. We’re entering rounds of the draft where you expect to have players contribute - potentially immediately - and certainly for longer than their rookie contracts would permit.

The past is the past. But how do you feel the Rams have done while on the clock in the 3rd round of the NFL draft?

St. Louis Rams 3rd Round Selections

Year	Pick	Player	Pos	College
2012	65	Trumaine Johnson	CB	Montana
2011	78	Austin Pettis	WR	Boise State
2010	65	Jerome Murphy	CB	South Florida
2009	66	Bradley Fletcher	CB	Iowa
2008	65	John Greco	OT	Toledo
2007	84	Jonathan Wade	CB	Tennessee
2006	68	Claude Wroten	DT	LSU
	77	Jon Alston	LB	Stanford
	93	Dominique Byrd	TE	USC
2005	66	O.J. Atogwe	S	Stanford
	81	Richie Incognito	G	Nebraska
2004	91	Anthony Hargrove	DE	Georgia Tech
2003	74	Kevin Curtis	WR	Utah State
2002	84	Lamar Gordon	RB	North Dakota St.
	95	Eric Crouch	?	Nebraska
2001	83	Brian Allen	LB	Florida State
2000	94	John St. Clair	C	UVA
1999	68	Rich Coady	S	Texas A&M
1998	65	Leonard Little	LB	Tennessee
1997
1996	83	Jerald Moore	RB	Oklahoma
1995	82	Steve McLaughlin	K	Arizona

Total Number of Rams Draft Picks Since 1995: 156

Total Number of 3rd Round Draft Picks Since 1995: 21

↳ 13.5% of overall picks

With the addition of the 3rd round selections, the Rams have now utilized 73.7% of their picks on rounds 3-7. At this point, the statistics may not be startling, but remember how the Rams used nearly a third [32%] of their overall draft picks on 6th and 7th round picks. Remember, 14.3% is the amount [per round] that a team would take in each round if they were to stay put and not trade any of their picks. Here’s the breakdown thus far:

Round	Picks	% of Overall [156]
7	33	21.1%
6	17	10.9%
5	22	14.1%
4	22	14.1%
3	21	13.5%
2	?	?
1	?	?

In the event your calculator is broken, we’ve revisited 115 of the possible 156 draft picks over the past 18 years. That leaves the Rams with 41 very valuable 1st and 2nd round selections. You should look forward to quite a few “can’t afford to miss” players. But I digress...

The Rams have chosen four CB’s in the 3rd round over the course of the past six years. Sadly, last year’s pick - Trumaine Johnson - is the only one who remains on the roster. Seems to be a trend, no? The Rams have shown a propensity [at times] to go for a certain position in a round, yet the result is a short stay with the team. "Cornerback in the 3rd" appears to be no exception.

That being said - unlike year’s past - rookie Rams of 2012 proved to be a crop of players who were able to step in and immediately compete for starting roles. Trumaine didn’t see as much time as some of the other rookies, but he's received praise from Head Coach Jeff Fisher and GM Les Snead. Johnson’s size is something coveted by the coaching staff, as big/physical corners are something of a necessity in the NFC West, where wide receivers have the qualities to match.

Out with the old and in with the new? Interestingly enough, Trumaine Johnson should expect to see far more playing time in 2013, but it comes as a result of another Rams draftee moving on. Bradley Fletcher - the Rams 2009 3rd round pick - played admirably for the Rams - when healthy. Fletcher missed 21 games over the first three years of his young career due to injury. Coming off of a torn ACL in 2011, Fletcher would ultimately see the Rams pay Cortland Finnegan the big bucks in free agency, so it was only a matter of time.

How about that 2006 draft haul?! With three picks between #68 overall and #93, the Rams were sure to strike a bit of 3rd round gold. Wrong. Those three players - Wroten, Alston, & Byrd - recorded a combined five years of disappointing stats for the Rams. None played for the team more than two seasons. Just so you know, I can hear you groaning again...

And then there’s 2005. O.J. Atogwe put in six admirable seasons for the Rams prior to being released and acquired by the Redskins. Atogwe missed only four games in his six year stint, and ball-hawked himself to 22 INT’s during this span. Richie Incognito? I’ll assume you know how that turned out. The comment section [below] may have been created specifically for this type of feedback.

Eric Crouch proved to be an amazing QB....for Nebraska. He never displayed the wide receiver skills that the Rams would’ve liked to have seen. Unfortunately - for Crouch - he wasn’t playing college football about 10 years later. Short, mobile QB’s stand a much better chance of being drafted in the 3rd round, all while making their team possible favorites in the NFC West these days.

And every so often the Rams find an unforgettable talent. Leonard Little played admirably for the Rams for twelve seasons. He lead the team in sacks in half of those. Little was fortunate enough to play behind the likes of Kevin Carter and Grant Wistrom early in his career, and was on the field when the Rams stopped Kevin Dyson one yard shy of touchdown in Super Bowl XXXIV. He’d go on to make the Pro-Bowl in 2003, and his teammates helped earn him the Ed Block Courage Award in 2005. It’s fair to say Leonard Little is the type of player the Rams should expect to be drafting in the 3rd round. It’s also fair to say that the Rams have come nowhere close to replicating that kind of draft value in the last 15 years.

All together now...Groan!

The 3rd round for the Rams has shown some very memorable players, regardless of the role they

did [or did not] play for the Rams. Finding sustainable value in the 3rd - like rounds 4 through 7 - seems to have escaped the Rams for the most part. Austin Pettis was just as much a question mark coming into the 2013 Free Agency period as Brandon Gibson. Had Austin been sent packing, 3rd round players would have only one player to represent them for the past 18 drafts - Trumaine Johnson.

Which one of these players sticks out in your mind? Can Trumaine Johnson maintain a career the length of a Atogwe? Little? History would suggest he can’t - or more so - won’t.

If you were satisfied with the Rams’ 2013 draft, I'll assume this draft countdown series is only re-affirming your utter belief in "Keeping Calm and Snead On". There’s no stopping this train though, and tomorrow there will be two things you can be certain of....the amount of days left until the 2013 NFL Draft, and the fact that you'll be recapping the Rams 2nd round draft picks for the past 18 years. Yes, I said the second round...

NFL Draft Countdown: Revisiting the St. Louis Rams 4th Round Picks

Brandon Bate — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 02:13:51 -0000

As the countdown to draft day continues, we move higher up the Rams’ historical draft board. But before we get to the haul of 4th rounders the Rams have chosen since their move back to St. Louis in 1995, make sure you’re up to speed on some - mostly forgettable - late round picks:

* St. Louis Rams 7th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 6th Round Selections

* St. Louis Rams 5th Round Selections

...having seen that, I know you deserve a break. Take a look at what the Rams have accomplished while on the clock in the 4th round over the past 18 years...

St. Louis Rams 4th Round Selections

Year	Pick	Player	Pos	College
2012	96	Chris Givens	WR	Wake Forest
2011	112	Greg Salas	WR	Hawaii
2010	99	Mardy Gilyard	WR	Cincinnati
2009	103	Darell Scott	DT	Clemson
2008	101	Justin King	CB	Penn State
	128	Keenan Burton	WR	Kentucky
2007
2006	113	Victor Adeyanju	DE	Indiana
2005	117	Jerome Carter	DB	Florida State
	134	Claude Terrell	G	New Mexico
2004	130	Brandon Chillar	LB	UCLA
2003	106	Shaun McDonald	WR	Arizona State
	107	DeJaun Groce	CB	Nebraska
2002	130	Travis Scott	G	Arizona State
2001	116	Milton Wynn	WR	Washington St.
	129	Brandon Manumaleuna	TE	Arizona
2000	104	Kaulana Noa	OT	Hawaii
1999	101	Joe Germaine	QB	Ohio State
1998	96	Az-Zahir Hakim	WR	San Diego St.
	98	Roland Williams	TE	Syracuse
1997	112	Ryan Tucker	C	Texas Christian
1996	105	Percell Gaskins	LB	Kansas State
1995	115	Lovell Pinkney	WR	Texas

Total Number of Rams Draft Picks Since 1995: 156

Total Number of 4th Round Draft Picks Since 1995: 22

↳ 14.1% of overall picks

Honorable Mention: Vince Ferragamo [1977] QB, University of Nebraska. Selected 91st overall.

With the addition of the aforementioned 4th round players the 18 year draft stock has now seen 94 of it’s 156 players drafted [60.3%].

Having revisited the draft order in reverse hasn’t shed the brightest light on the Rams’ draft success for the better part of two decades. Finding a wide receiver has proven....well, to be a bit of a challenge. If you’re familiar with the Greatest Show on Turf days, then you know that Mr. Az Zahir Hakim is the exception.

The most pertinent question - at this point - is whether or not last year’s 4th round selection, Chris Givens, is able to quench the Rams of their 4th round-WR-thirst. Having lead the team in receiving yards in his rookie season, he’s provided the fan base little reason to believe he won’t continue to take the top off defenses with his blazing speed in 2013.

Which of the remaining 4th round picks have been worthwhile pick in your opinion? Who has provided you with fond memories of years past? Nightmares for years beyond? Did the Rams really ‘lose’ a cornerback from the 2008 draft? Just ask Torrey Smith....or the Colts.

You may not like what you see, but come back tomorrow for the Rams 3rd round picks [it’s got to get better, right?]. Even if you’re not satisfied with the content just look at it this way...at a minimum, it may be the only draft countdown you see all day. You’re welcome.

NFL Draft Countdown: Re-visiting St. Louis Rams 5th Round Picks

Brandon Bate — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 00:36:14 -0000

This past Friday, we started the countdown to the draft by 7th round selections that the Rams have made since 1985. Yesterday, we highlighted the 6th rounders. Something that should be noted is that the Rams 6th & 7th round draft picks - over the past 18 years - have accounted for 32% of their entire draft [21.1% in the 7th, and 10.9% in the 6th].

With five days remaining until the 2013 NFL Draft, let’s have a look at what St. Louis has done in the draft when they’re on the clock in the 5th round...

St. Louis Rams 5th Round Selections

Year	Pick	Player	Pos	College
2012	150	Rokevious Watkins	G	South Carolina
2011	158	Jermale Hines	DB	Ohio State
2010	132	Michael Hoomanawanui	TE	Illinois
	149	Hall Davis	DE	Louisiana-Lafayette
2009	160	Brooks Foster	WR	North Carolina
2008	157	Roy Schuening	G	Oregon State
2007	139	Dustin Fry	C	Clemson
	154	Clifton Ryan	DT	Michigan State
2006	144	Marques Hagans	WR	Virginia
2005	144	Jerome Collins	TE	Notre Dame
2004	158	Jason Shivers	S	Arizona State
2003	148	Dan Curley	TE	Eastern Washington
	170	Shane Walton	CB	Notre Dame
	172	Kevin Garrett	CB	Southern Methodist
2002	167	Courtland Bullard	LB	Ohio State
2001	145	Jerametrius Butler	CB	Kansas State
2000	139	Brian Young	DE	Texas - El Paso
1999	145	Cameron Spikes	G	Texas A&M
1998	129	Raymond Priester	RB	Clemson
1997	158	Taje Allen	DB	Texas
1996	141	Fred Miller	OT	Baylor
1995	140	Mike Scurlock	CB	Arizona

Total Number of Rams Draft Picks Since 1995: 156

Total Number of 5th Round Draft Picks Since 1995: 22

↳ 14.1% of overall picks

Honorable Mention: Kevin Greene [1985] LB, selected 113th overall from the University of Auburn.

Greene, a member of the LA Rams, is far and away the creme de la creme of Rams 5th round selections. With nearly two decades in the books since he was originally drafted, there aren’t many 5th rounders - Rams or otherwise - who played with the tenacity that Greene did.

In regards to what else there is to discuss when discussing the Rams and their 5th round picks since 1995...well, Rokevious Watkins is the only one still around. Rok probably would’ve earned the starting left guard spot last season, though an injury on opening day landed him on the IR list for the remainder of the season. He’ll look to earn it back this offseason, though mocks-a-plenty have the Rams looking to take a guard the likes of Chance Warmack or Jonathan Cooper. If this were to occur, the chances of Watkins providing more for the team than his 5th round predecessors become slightly more difficult.

Brian Young, who joined the team in 2000, did play in every game for the team from 2001-2003. On November 9, 2003, Young tied an NFL record with three fumble recoveries against the Baltimore Ravens and was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week.

These guys aside, and much like many of the later round draft picks from the past several years, the Rams simply haven’t had much success in finding serviceable players. The lack of tenure from the list above is a direct correlation.

What do you think about the 5th round haul over the past 18 seasons? Are there players on this list that you would’ve liked to see the Rams retain? With minimal retention in the 5th, who should the Rams have drafted instead of the guys on this list?

Change the channel if you must, but check back in at Turf Show Times tomorrow. We’re counting down the St. Louis Rams drafts picks by round for each day that remains until the April 25th draft.

Year	Rush YPG	Rank	Pass YPG	Rank	Record
2012	117.5	15	245.4	19	7-8-1
2011	152.1	31	222.6	8	2-14
2010	113.1	17	241.8	22	7-9
2009	137.6	27	244.6	23	1-15
2008	154.7	29	229.8	19	2-14
2007	115.3	20	240.4	24	3-13
2006	145.4	31	203.1	4	8-8
2005	136.1	28	226.2	22	6-10
2004	136.2	29	213.4	11	8-8
2003	123.8	20	210.2	14	12-4

Year	G	Att	Comp	Comp%	Yds	TD	Int	Rating
2010	16	590	354	60.0	3,512	18	15	76.5%
2012	16	551	328	59.5	3,702	21	13	82.6%

Tavon Austin	x5	DeAndre Hopkins	x5
Kenny Vaccaro	x5	Eric Reid	x4
Chance Warmack	x3	Matt Elam	x3
Cordarrelle Patterson	x3	Alec Ogletree	x3
DeAndre Hopkins	x2	Kenny Vaccaro	x2
Alec Ogletree	x2	Eddie Lacy	x2
Jonathan Cyprien	x1	Tavon Austin	x1
Eric Reid	x1	Jonathan Cyprien	x1
		Cordarrelle Patterson	x1

SBNation.com User Blog: Brandon Bate

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