Rams Rookie Preview: Jamon Brown, Offensive Line

It was no secret that the St. Louis Rams would be looking for offensive line help in this year’s draft. After selecting running back Todd Gurley in the first round, the Rams would select offensive lineman with consecutive round picks. Brown was selected in the third round, 72^nd overall, out of Louisville.

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Brown was a three-year starter at Louisville. He played both right and left tackle for the Cardinals and was awarded All-ACC honors in both 2013 and 2014. Louisville’s offense fired on all cylinders in 2014 averaging just shy of 400 yards per game. The offensive line was an integral part of that success.

May 8, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams offensive lineman Jamon Brown (68) looks on during rookie minicamp at Rams Park. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Coming in at 6’4” and 323 lbs., Brown has the size and “width” to succeed on a pro offensive line. Brown ran a respectable 5.09 sec. 40-yard dash at this years combine and followed that up with 7.36 seconds in the 3-cone drill. Brown has a great first step and excels against speed rushers with his wide frame. Playing both guard and tackle put Brown all over the board on draft projections. His draft position was going to hinge on what team needed the help more. The Rams took that chance early where the consensus was a fourth or fifth round grade.

Brown was heavily scouted and didn’t come without risk. He struggles to recover and has endurance issues. He may be considered a liability late in games. Brown struggles with stunts and finding himself in pass protection. On the other side of that coin, Brown seems to shine in run protection; something the Rams will look to do more of in 2015 with the addition of Gurley.

Brown has the potential to become a starter in the NFL early in his career. With as many holes and uncertainties on the offensive line as the Rams have, he may get his opportunity sooner rather than later. He will need to work on his body control and find more consistency in the passing game, but with his credentials, is looking like a fine prospect for St. Louis . Look for Brown to be a rotational lineman in 2015.