3X the LA Rams failed to improve the team in the 2021 NFL Draft

Strike II: Choosing TE/WR Jacob Harris over CB Nate Hobbs

The LA Rams are to receivers as a person afflicted with a sweet tooth is to candy. But in a season where the Rams needed serious help in the secondary, the team loaded up on offensive talent, again. It was frustrating then, and it’s still frustrating now.

I believe that a huge surprise was the priority given to the receivers in the 2021 NFL Draft. While the team only lost WR Josh Reynolds and TE Gerald Everett in free agency, the team signed free agent DeSean Jackson and welcomed back redshirted rookie wide receiver Trishton Jackson, J.J. Koski, and tight end Brycen Hopkins.

But rather than integrate returning players, and rounding out the roster with undrafted free-agent rookies, the Rams committed their draft to select players who would not contribute in 2021. But the team did have a measurable need among defensive backs.

The team lost safety John Johnson III and cornerback Troy Hill in free agency. Unlike the wide receiver position which boasted Cooper Kupp, Robert Woods, and Van Jefferson as returning starters, the secondary was loaded with questions and young raw talent.

Once more, the Rams drafted small school prospect, Robert Rochell. But once again, the team stopped short of doubling down at a badly needed position. Had the Rams gone the extra distance, the team would have a much stronger secondary and be in an excellent position entering the latter have of the NFL season.

Nate Hobbs made the Pro Football Focus 2021 midseason All-Pro team. He has been a standout in the Las Vegas Raiders secondary, and has not allowed a touchdown as of November 3, 2021. While the Rams pride themselves in good secondary play, Nate Hobbs would guarantee the Rams would have a strong pass defense for many years to come.