LA Rams Draft: Deep dive analysis into 11 top rookie roster additions

Pick 253

With the 253rd pick, the LA Rams added secondary reinforcements by choosing 5-foot-10 192-pound defensive back Russ Yeast from Kansas State University. Yeast is exceptional in pass defense but will be limited in the NFL based on his size that is closer to a cornerback than safety size.

What does the team need for this position?

The LA Rams secondary primarily runs zone coverage. The team has been tinkering with the best personnel fits and allowed two cornerbacks: Darious Williams and Donte Deayon; to part ways with the team this offseason.  The Rams need pass coverage, a safety/cornerback hybrid who can be a slot defender but also play center field.

What does this rookie deliver?

Russ Yeast is a solid addition, a true pass defender who can fit that popular hybrid role in the LA Rams defense.  He has a solid ability to view and diagnose what the offense is doing and then makes good choices to place himself in a good position to make the play. He is a legacy player, the son of former NFL wide receiver Craig Yeast.

The Rams do not need a shutdown safety and did not get one in Yeast. Rather, the Rams added a defensive back who can make plays with the ball in the air and complicate the job of opposing quarterbacks.

Who else was available?

LA Rams Draft Russ Yeast: Here are two prospects left on the board

Instant reaction: Yeast is a solid addition, a player who can earn playing time as quickly as this season. His detractions are his size and physicality, both of which can be addressed quickly by time in the weight room.

Draft Grade: B-.  I think Yeast will be better than the brochure. He has that field presence to use the sidelines and back of the endzone to amplify his effectiveness.