Ramblin’ Fan Thursday Morning Links: Steve Smith, Rookie Profiles, and Top 10 Video Game Covers

Slow work week? Early morning? Too many drinks last night? There is no cure like a  St. Louis Rams’ pick-me-up! While OTAs and mandatory minicamps are not the most exciting time of the season, that certainly does not mean there is any lack of content. Here are some of Ramblin’ Fans’ top articles from the last couple of days. Enjoy…

2013 NFL Draft Steals and Reaches

While most of the 2013 NFL Draft analysis has died down, for now, there are still a couple of articles that sneak out every week. This week, Chris Burke reveals his comprehensive list of “steals” and “reaches” from the draft. One particular 113th overall pick made the cut for the St. Louis Rams, although one could certainly argue that Alec Ogletree at 30th or Stedman Bailey late in the 3rd round were both “steals” in their own right.

Tavon Austin Rookie Profile

If you do not frequent the St. Louis Rams “official” page you are missing out on some amazing exclusive content, including interview, behind-the scenes footage, and some outstanding writing. Their newest video series is deemed the “Rookie Profiles.” This link will get you to Tavon Austin’s, but they also just threw up their profile on Alec Ogletree. Both are must-watches…

How Good Will The St. Louis Rams’ Offense Be In 2013?

The St. Louis Rams were the youngest team in the NFL to start the season in 2012, and now will vie for that spot again after dropping aging veterans like Quintin Mikell, Steven Jackson, and Mario Haggan. The team has chosen to trade age and experience for youth and speed; but, will that pay off immediately? The guys over at “Opposing Views” believe so, even referencing the “Greatest Show on Turf.”

Buccaneers announce retirement of WR Steve Smith

Contrary to popular belief, Steve Smith did play in the NFL last season… on the St. Louis Rams. I know, shocking! He hauled in a grand total of 14 receptions for 131 yards, without a touchdown, during the 2012 season, edging out Brian Quick as the low man on the receiver totem pole. His once promising career in New York has certainly down spiraled after a handful of brutal injuries. Best of luck to Smith in his future endeavors.

2014 NFL Mock Draft: Sneak Peak at Next Year’s 1st-Round Prospects

It is, apparently, never too early to start mock drafting. Bleacher Report makes a bold attempt at hammering out a semi-respectable 2014 NFL Draft, slotting the St. Louis Rams at 16th and 19th (via Washington). However, the author seems a bit over his head in terms of the team analyses, claiming that the Rams have merely a “dynamic duo” at corner, and are in need of another cover man at the position. Trumaine Johnson might disagree with that sentiment…

Top 10 Sports Video Game Covers Of All-Time

The Madden video game franchise has been one of the keys to the exponential rise in the popularity of the NFL over the last decade. Not only is it the best selling sports game on an annual basis, but it allows fans to remain “in the game” during the lull of the offseason, maintaining that connect with your team that can sometimes be lost without weekly Sunday games. However, when it comes to covers, the Maddens have typically followed the “rinse, wash, repeat” style… why mess with perfection, right? However, the St. Louis Rams’ Marshall Faulk breaks the mold, getting his 2003 cover appearance slotted as one of the Top 10 video games covers of all time…