Rams Trade Up To Take Lamarcus Joyner In The Second Round

Nov 30, 2013; Gainesville, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Lamarcus Joyner (20) rushes during the first quarter against the Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Many were upset that the St. Louis Rams didn’t address the secondary in the first round of the draft. general manager Les Snead and head coach Jeff Fisher made it an effort however, to address the position when they decided to trade up from 44 to the 41st selection that was held by the Buffalo Bills to take Florida St. defensive back Lamarcus Joyner.

Joyner will join Greg Reid as another Florida St. defensive back in the Rams secondary. Much like Rodney McLeod, Joyner has the versatility to move from safety to the nickleback corner position. Joyner isn’t that big however, which could make him more of a fit at nickelback.

Joyner is durable, he has a great work ethic, and he is instinctive and opportunistic on the field. This is a sold pick for the Rams who are in desperate need of defensive backs.

Here’s what nfl.com’s Nolan Nowrocki had to say about Joyner,

"“A terrific college football player and galvanizing leader for a national champion, Joyner is a tweener lacking unique physical traits for the pro game, and his dimensions leave him vulnerable to mismatches. However, he possesses special intangibles which could enable him to make his mark on special teams and compete for a sub-package role as a short-hole plugger where he can make plays on the ball in front of him.ole plugger where he can make plays on the ball in front of him.teams and in the return game to carve a role. Has a make-it attitude and winning mentality that could allow him to overcome his physical limitations. Compares favorably to Panthers 2009 seventh-rounder Captain Munnerlyn.”"

Joyner was the 24th best player available going into Day two according ESPN.com. Joyner is a playmaker in the secondary and will add much needed depth which is exactly what the Rams need.