The St. Louis Rams 2013 Draft Preview: Terrance Williams And Tyrann Mathieu

Dec 3, 2011; Atlanta, GA, USA; LSU Tigers cornerback Tyrann Mathieu (7) prior to kickoff of a game against the Georgia Bulldogs during the 2011 SEC championship game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Nothing must please Ram fans more than seeing the youth of the football team really step up and make some big plays. Janoris Jenkins is up to his old ways in returning another interception for a touchdown and Lance Kendricks is moulding into a very reliable weapon for Sam Bradford. The future is bright for the Rams and it’s only going to get brighter, as the Rams have two first round draft picks for the next two seasons. Ram fans should believe in Jeff Fisher and Les Snead not to waste these valuable draft picks. Fisher and Snead did a fantastic job in the 2012 draft class. Michael Brockers, Janoris Jenkins, Chris Givens, Greg Zuerlein and even Daryl Richardson all have what it takes to one day feature in the pro bowl.

Two players will be analyzed weekly (one from defense and one from offense) based on their current form in college football.
This isn’t a mock draft. This is simply an analysis of high valued players that will enter the 2013 NFL draft.

Position needs: OT, OLB, S, WR, TE

OFFENSE
Terrance Williams  (6 foot 3, 205 pounds)
Wide Receiver (Baylor)
This position has been the main issue for the Rams going into the draft ever since Torry Holt and Issac Bruce retired. Since Torry Holt retired from the Rams in 2008, they have drafted eight wide receivers. None of which have stayed with the Rams for more than 3 seasons. Chris Givens plays very much like a young Mike Wallace, as he will eventually evolve into a every down wide receiver who will have a great career at the Rams. Bradford still lacks that big wide receiver who is a true threat in the red-zone. While the Rams try and figure out what Brian Quick can bring to the table, Danario Alexander is finally living up to his expectations over in San Diego.

Terrance Williams is a big bodied possessional wide receiver who can be an every down player for the Rams. Williams could be a reliable target for Bradford and he has the capability of being a fabulous red-zone weapon. His size and jumping abilities make him a mismatch against most defensive backs, so NFL teams will like his potential on fade routes. He also does well to find the soft spot in zone coverage. Baylor used that to their advantage in the red-zone this season and last. Expect Rams to be interested if he falls in to the second round.
Draft Range – late first/mid second round 

DEFENSE
Tyrann Mathieu (5 foot 9, 175 pounds)
Cornerback (Former LSU)
Going into the 2012 season, Mathieu was a hot shot to be a first round pick. Unfortunately, it was the constant off field issues with Mathieu, that has seen his draft stock plummet. Imagine Janoris Jenkins and Cortland Finnegan’s play making abilities, mixing with one of the most dynamic college cornerback in football. Mathieu would be more suited to play in the nickel package, due to the lack of size as he would struggle to match up against the big bodied outside receivers. He could serve well as a slot corner who covers smaller receivers and could likely excel as a roaming free safety. His instincts would let him run around the field and make splash plays. Many NFL teams would want him on their team, as he could be a lethal kick off and punt returner. It is hard to judge where he will be drafted, because it will depend how hard NFL teams will look into his off field issues.
Draft Range – third-seventh round 

Follow the links to previous Ramblin Fan Draft Previews:
Week 1      Week 4     Week 7    Week 10
Week 2      Week 5     Week 8    Week 11
Week 3      Week 6     Week 9    Week 12

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