5 Round 1 draft prospects who could warm up chilly Rams reception in 2024

Prospect 1: Washington QB Michael Penix Jr.

Even introducing the possibility of the LA Rams selecting quarterback prospect Michael Penix Jr. is enough to trigger some fans into personal attacks. But when former Rams elite QB views Penix as an ideal fit for this offense, why become emotional? And the reality is that if the team is sold on Penix as the quarterback of the future, then why not embrace that future now.

Michael Penix Jr. is a pure pocket passer who can make all of the throws. In terms of what HC Sean McVay wants from his quarterback, Penix checks all of the boxes. But don't take my word for it. However, you can trust the perspective of Rams legendary quarterback Jim Everett, who has already come out and endorsed Penix as the best fit for the offense.

Michael Penix Jr. stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 216 pounds. He has six seasons under his belt in NCAA competition, and played his final two seasons for the Washington Huskies. It's his final two years of football that has catapulted him to the top of the charts in terms of the Top-5 quarterback prospects this season. Let's break it down for you.

In two years with the Huskies, he completed 725 of 1109 passes for 9,544 yards, 67 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions. That is better than the four-year careers of many quarterback prospects. He has a quick release, and an oh-so-efficient delivery that can send the football sailing downfield for 50+ yards on a tight spiral. While he is a pocket passer, he is no sitting duck. He can slide, move, and burst to a new pocket, regroup, and let 'er fly.

He flourishes in a safe pocket, and the Rams have certainly upgraded the offensive line to ensure that the pocket with protect veteran starting quarterback Matthew Stafford. He also works well with a solid rushing attack, and the Rams have proved to possess the ability to run as well.

While some would be opposed to adding Penix, fans only need to see him operate in the pocket to understand how much he could mean to this team's future. After all, there will only be a limited amount of time to sit back and enjoy the production from Matthew Stafford. Why wait until Stafford hangs up his cleats to scramble far and wide for his replacement?

These are five prospects who could hear their names called by the Rams in Round 1 of the 2024 NFL Draft, who could end up getting only a lukewarm reception. But much like the initial reaction to NT Kobie Turner, let them prove their worth in games before incorrectly assessing their potential for this team.

I believe that all five, if selected, could carve out a vital role on this team. But who will be chosen? I leave that up to the team's front office and coaching staff.

Thanks for reading.