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

LA Rams select Javon Leake, RB Maryland

The Rams select a running back in the seventh round to close their draft. They select Javon Leake from Maryland. He is a big running back that could start on special teams.

Leake stands 6-feet weighing 206 pounds. He played three seasons for Maryland from 2017-19. Leake rushed for 1144 yards with 17 touchdowns. He averaged 7.2 yards-per-carry last season.

Leake might have trouble breaking into the starting lineup as the feature back but he can run back kicks. NBC Sports’ rotoworld.com gives a glowing description of Leake and his many talents on the gridiron:

"Leake (6’0/206) has been a big play waiting to happen … The speedster is an adept special teams weapon, too, having just been named Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year after racking up 799 yards (26.6 yards per return) this fall. … we would not be surprised if he found his share of fans over the coming months as he works to try to gain a foothold told a Day 3 selection."

Special teams are the third part of each successful team. The LA Rams would be very wise to invest in Leake. Sometimes a huge kick return makes the difference between winning and losing. Right now, the Rams kick return specialist Jojo Natson is a restricted free agent (RFA). The Rams may opt not to commit the money required to ensure they retain Natson for another season.

Don’t forget, the NFL combine gets underway with field workouts on Thursday. Quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends get the parade of talent going. Friday is for the running backs, offensive linemen and special team players.

Linebackers and defensive lineman share the spotlight on Saturday. To wrap up this year’s combine, defensive backs take the stage on Sunday. Be sure to catch these draft selections throughout the Combine.