LA Rams 2020 NFL Draft perspective by Draft Rite’s guru Erik Hindenburg

Erik Hindenburg interview – Part I

Ramblin Fan: Which position need(s) must the team fill on day 2 and have hopes of landing a true starter?

Erik Hindenburg (DraftRite) – Day 2 is going to be crucial for the Rams’ future. The Front Office has played fast and loose with high draft picks and trades in recent seasons, and I am concerned it may hurt the team sooner than later. Getting a starter at EDGE, LB, and DB should be the top priorities for them.

For how the Rams play defense, they have some flexibility in targeting guys who can help in multiple ways. The depth of the receiver class means they can find a contributor much later than normal. As for the tight end, I’m not sold on anyone being a star, much less early at a position that has a historically long adjustment period. The offensive line is never a wrong answer, but the thought here is that the team will prioritize defense early.

Ramblin Fan: The LA Rams must try and fill the vacancy of RB Todd Gurley. Which running back in the 2020 NFL Draft has similar potential in the NFL?

Erik Hindenburg (DraftRite) – There is no player comparable to a peak-Todd-Gurley in this draft, and putting more on Goff’s shoulders isn’t a recipe for success in my opinion. Targeting a back any earlier than pick 126 is going to be hard to justify due to team needs and lack of draft capital.

I’d say someone like Clyde Edwards-Helaire out of LSU or Cam Akers out of FSU would be dream fits if either falls that far. More realistically, someone like Ke’Shawn Vaughn Vanderbilt or AJ Dillon Boston College has skill sets that fit the offense well. Keep an eye on Darrynton Evans Appalachian State late! I think he is someone the Rams coaching staff will covet late.

Ramblin Fan: Which 1-2 edge rusher in rounds 2 or 3 might the Rams select to replace Dante Fowler Jr.?

Erik Hindenburg (DraftRite) – Replacing Fowler isn’t nearly as daunting a task as some observers may believe, he just is not anything special. Much of his production for his career has come from manufactured stunts and twists as opposed to winning matchups on the EDGE. I would highlight Curtis Weaver Boise State, Terrell Lewis Alabama, and Jonathan Greenard out of Florida as potential fits on Day 2.