Rams add more talent at offensive line with Bobby Evans

The Los Angeles Rams add versatile offensive line talent in Oklahoma’s Bobby Evans. Here is the breakdown of the pick and how he fits with the Rams.

One of the biggest needs coming into this draft was offensive line for the Los Angeles Rams after losing Rodger Saffold and John Sullivan this offseason to free agency and age, respectively.

It stood to reason that the Rams would target offensive linemen on Day 2 of the draft. After three picks, they had not done so, but at No. 97, the team finally pulled the trigger with Oklahoma offensive tackle Bobby Evans.

Back in the day, Evans protected Kyler Murray’s blindside in high school in Allen, Texas. He went to Oklahoma and was a three-year starter, with his first two years at right tackle and his last year protecting Murray’s blindside again at left tackle.

Evans was second team All-Big 12 during his final year at Oklahoma. Evans also has long arms, is described as playing the game with a smart approach, and started his final 40 games without missing time.

If you are keeping score, Evans blocked for the last two Heisman Trophy winners (Murray and Baker Mayfield). His versatility and experience at both left and right tackle surely appeals to the Rams and gives him value as a swing tackle.

Remember that this team puts an enormous value and trust on offensive line coach Aaron Kromer with his ability to take middle of the draft talent and coach them up.

The pick of Evans gives the Rams flexibility going forward with Andrew Whitworth likely retiring after this season.

Like every prospect, Evans has weaknesses. Despite his long arms, he has too many body to body blocks. He regularly gets the job done, but it isn’t always pretty.

Evans will need to learn to use his technique more in the NFL to win blocks against scary pass-rushers. He is also know for having a competitive edge that gets him into trouble, leading to penalties that cost the team.

I imagine Sean McVay and Wade Phillips both love the fire, but will certainly expect Evans to harness the passion, as to not hurt the team.

The Rams currently sit with three fifth-round picks (No. 24, No. 29, and No. 31) and one seventh (No. 37). Los Angeles has yet to use a pick that had not been traded at some point.

Then again, that is the Les Snead way, as Saturday looks to offer as much excitement for Rams fans as Friday did when it comes to finding valuable picks beyond the first round like Evans.