LA Rams 7-Round mock draft 2.1 heading into NFL Combine

LA Rams select WR Michael Pittman Jr, WR USC

Michael Pittman is the first wide receiver selected by the Rams since 2017. Pittman gets taken in the fourth round. His father was an NFL running back for 11 seasons.

In college, Pittman caught 171 passes for 2519 yards with 19 touchdowns. He is a big tough receiver. He stands 6-feet-4 weighing 220 pounds. Pittman will create many mismatches while playing as the slot receiver.

He played in the USC offense which is very similar to the Rams passing scheme. Expect Jared Goff to target the big, young, rookie receiver in an effort to get him acclimated to the speed of the pro game. He will be an effective blocker downfield for Cooper Kupp.

Lance Zierlein of nfl.com gives his thoughts on Pittman:

"Big, smart and reliable, Pittman falls into the “possession receiver” bin, but has top-notch ball skills that allow him to bully and best cornerbacks down the field. Improving release quickness against press will be an early focal point in an NFL camp, but his frame and physicality should create work space underneath even with close coverage. … He should be a productive plug-and-play talent at WR2 early in his career."

LA needs big receivers to take the pressure off the running backs. This player will help Todd Gurley find running lanes in the defense.

This next player will stuff the run with Aaron Donald.