St.Louis Rams 2013 NFL Draft Preview: Jake Matthews And David Amerson

Dec, 27, 2011; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack cornerback David Amerson (1) reacts after returning an interception for a touchdown in the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-US PRESSWIRE

First of all, mixed emotions have been circling about the 49ers game. Going into the game, many Ram fans would’ve accepted a draw but after watching the game, more Ram fans would feel as though they had lost. Both teams had their chances to take away the win, instead players and fans from both teams were left to feel empty. With game’s result aside, the Rams played their best game of the season so far. Going up against a strong 49ers team at Candlestick Park and playing the way they did, shows that the Rams’ future is only looking brighter. The main positive aspect from this game was the fact that their draft picks from the last three years really stood out. Sam Bradford had one of his best games, Michael Brockers stopped the run and was able to collect one and half sacks and Brian Quick was on the end of a 36 yard touchdown pass. The main concern was obviously the penalties, 13 penalties for 85 yards isn’t going to win you games.

It’s getting to the end of the college football season and many draft stocks are dropping and rising. Almost a full year of college football has flown past, which allows recruiters to have enough film on the player that they want to analyse. So who’s game play will fulfill the needs of the St. Louis Rams?
Two players will be analyzed weekly (one from defense and one from offense) based on their current form in college football.

OFFENSE
Jake Matthews (6 foot 5 , 305 pounds)
Offensive Linemen (Texas A&M)
Left tackle Roger Saffold has been plagued with injuries throughout his short career. His only 16 game season was in his rookie year, which he excelled and proved he was one of the best tackles in the NFL. The right tackle position however is a different situation. If Jason Smith lived up to his high expectations, then the Rams offensive line wouldn’t be an on going problem. Having Barry Richardson at right tackle is a little bit of a nail biter for both the fans and Bradford. The Rams offensive line isn’t as bad as people make it out to be. Once Scott Wells is back from injury, the Rams will all of a sudden have a much stronger line – but it only takes one linemen to give up a sack. The offensive line is only as good as it’s worst player.

Jake Matthews is the best right tackle in the 2013 draft class. Matthews has the quickness, ability and strength to be a day one starter in the NFL. Texas A&M was a part of the biggest upset of the college season so far, in defeating a once undefeated Alabama. Matthews and team mate left tackle, Luke Joeckel, were a big part of Texas A&M’s success, allowing freshman quarterback Johnny Menziel to take control against a stout Alabama defense. Jake Matthews will be a perfect fit for the Rams, as he would move straight into the right tackle position and take charge immediately.
Draft Range: mid-first round 

DEFENSE
David Amerson (6 foot 3, 195 pounds)
Cornerback/Free Safety (North Carolina State)
It’s safe to say that Craig Dahl won’t be on the team next season and that the Rams will address the free safety position in next year’s draft. The 49ers’ Michael Crabtree touchdown will stick in the the coaches minds leading up to the draft, as Craig Dahl completely missed on an opportunity to make a play. Of course this wasn’t the only play, it has been the theme of the secondary for the 2012/13 season. The Rams defense haven’t had a turnover in four games which is simply not good enough. They need a play maker.

David Amerson was a top five prospect going into the 2012 college season, as he had an enormous upside. In 2011, he set the bar high gathering 13 interceptions. In 2012, he has understandably not met these numbers. In fact his performance has been a little sloppy at times. But the problems he faces aren’t anything that the NFL coaches haven’t seen in a rookie before. Although his stock has fallen a little due to his rare talents, size and play making ability, expect Amerson to still be drafted late first round early second round. Amerson’s ability to play either cornerback or free safety makes him an intriguing prospect. Expect Rams to have a sniff at him.
Draft Range: late first-early second round

Follow the links to previous Ramblin Fan Draft Previews:
Week 1      Week 4
Week 2      Week 5
Week 3      Week 6

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