LA Rams: 2021 NFL Draft Big Board

More offensive needs

The LA Rams offense has finally found a balance between passing the ball and running the ball. While that seems like a novice idea for 2020, it was the key to the Rams offensive dominance in both 2017 and 2018.  The Rams were certainly blessed with running back Todd Gurley, who could do everything that head coach Sean McVay asked of him.

This year that is not the case. The Rams have a running back by committee, and each member is responsible for their role.  That means Gurley’s job has been divided among the Rams trio of active running backs.

Running Back

Malcolm Brown’s contract ends at the end of the year. While the team still has Cam Akers and Darrell Henderson, I don’t think that the Rams feel quite comfortable with either of them entering next year. Brown has added a surprising element of power to his game this year as well, and I’m anticipating Brown wanting too much money to stay in LA.

No, Rams fans, don’t get excited and think that there’s a chance to land a top running back in the class. If the Rams had more draft picks this year, I’m sure it would be at least a consideration. At this point, however, I don’t foresee the Rams trying to invest a pick early on in the draft on another running back. I think the Rams are going to look for a running back later in the draft who can provide some of that element of power to the run game, and contribute in the passing game as a receiver.

Tight End

Gerald Everett and Johnny Mundt are both scheduled to be free agents in 2020. It’s pretty certain that Everett could return on a pretty small contract, around $2-$3 million per year, but it comes down to what he and the team are both willing to do. The Rams have used Everett as a change-up on the field to Tyler Higbee oftentimes, like an H-Back or fullback.

That being said, the Rams don’t really have a vertical threat at the tight end position on this team. Higbee has seen success but isn’t really schemed as a deep threat. Imagine where this team could be if they added a vertical threat, assuming that the opportunity provided itself?