NFL Draft 2021: Top 6 LA Rams prospects from the Big Ten

Inside linebacker

Our fourth of six prospects we need to investigate is a good one. He is  Ohio State Buckey inside linebacker Pete Werner (6.15-grade per NFL.com) whose name you often see linked to the word versatile. That’s because he played all three linebacker position at Ohio State.

And he got to showcase that versatility on the national stage when he played a huge part in his team’s dominating defensive performance in the national collegiate championship game against the heavily-favored Alabama Crimson Tide. He was particularly effective as a blitzer up the middle in that game.

The 6-foot-3, 238-pound inside linebacker has enough talent that some mocks have him being taken late in the first round, as this is not a particularly strong draft for elite linebackers. Werner stands out from the field of potential candidates, with many scouts pegging him to have the potential to become an immediate NFL starter.  Others see him falling as far as the third round in this draft.  Of course, with just 32 first round draft spots, some prospects fall. They believe Werner will be one of those players.

In  47 games for the Buckeyes Werner totaled 185 tackles (16 for loss), one sack (two quarterback hits) and four forced fumbles. He’s just an overall solid three-down linebacker. And his ability to play anywhere backing up the defensive line is a highly valued attribute. Would he be an upgrade for the Rams at the inside linebacker position? Oh yeah. Which is why we added him. But don’t hold your breath for the Rams to call out his name.