How will LA Rams DC Brandon Staley deploy 4 rookies on D?

Round 6, pick 199

WIth the 199th pick of the 2020 NFL Draft, the LA Rams added another defensive back, this time it was Jordan Fuller, safety, from Ohio State University. The LA Rams lost two significant defensive backs this off-season. The first was the retirement of veteran safety Eric Weddle.  The second loss happened when the Rams chose not to pick up the last year of Nickell Robey-Coleman’s contract. While the roster has replacements for both, that means that others are needed to take over those newly vacated roster spots. Thus the Rams selected two defensive backs in the draft.

Fuller was a player mocked to 0 he Rams but in the fourth-round.  That’s because the 6-foot-2 203-pound prospect had both safety and cornerback college experience, and he demonstrated great character and a solid work ethic.  He was a two-time team captain for the Buckeyes’ defense, a rare event in their history. And after 212 college tackles and five interceptions, he’s ready to go pro.

Post-selection impressions

Ramblin’ Fan contributor Manuel Harari noticed a dip in Fuller’s performance his senior season but believes fans will appreciate his football IQ.  While Larry Brake was satisfied with the pick, he pointed out that both J.R. Reed out of Georgia and Josh Metellus out of Michigan were both still on the board when the Rams drafted Fuller.   Finally, Noah Schlaebitz set the career projection for Fuller somewhere between veterans Kurt Coleman and special teamer Daren Bates.

What about Staley?  From the Stu Jackson article, he spoke briefly about Fuller:

"“Two-time captain at Ohio State. I mean, you’re talking about the premiere program in the country, two-time captain and he’s only one of 14 guys that’s ever been that. (Former Ohio State co-defensive coordinator) Jeff Hafley, we have a good relationship with him and he’s just been raving about this guy. He’s proven that so far in these meetings. We’re excited to work with him.”"

The character of Fuller seemed to have made an impression upon Staley. Staley is just in his first season, so advice from trusted friends will be at an all-time high this year. Fuller will benefit from those strong endorsements.