Final Rams Mock Draft: Defense dominates in this outstanding Rams draft haul

With the 154th overall pick

The Los Angeles Rams select Tykee Smith, safety, out of Georgia. While Smith may not be the biggest or baddest guy on the football field, he contributes in so many ways that he is a solid addition to any NFL roster. Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 202 pounds, Smith is a solid and physical safety who has the growl of a linebacker, and who can become that coveted hybrid Super Saiyan LB/S combination that has become so popular in the NFL of late.

But in viewing him as that LB/S combination, you may overlook his solid pass defense that allows him to play as a slot defensive back as well. It's his multi-role versatility that will entice the front office to select him here. He is a passionate work-aholic who will spend overtime learning and perfecting his craft. And he is willing to deliver in any way for his football team, making him perfectly suited to impact coverage units on special teams. In 2023, Tykee Smith delivered 70 tackles, 8.5 tackles for a loss, 2.0 quarterback sacks, four interceptions, and broke up two passes. He can do it all.

With the 155th overall pick

The Los Angeles Rams select Tommy Eichenberg, linebacker, out of Ohio State. The Rams need to address the linebacker position in this draft and do so in style with this selection in Round 5. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 233 pounds, Eichenberg possesses all of the necessary attributes for a three-down inside linebacker. He can quickly diagnose and stuff the run. He has solid lateral speed and coverage skills to defend the pass against even larger and more physical tight ends, and he has the ability to blitz and sack the quarterback.

He buries the needle in passion and coachability, traits that the front office has successfully emphasized in recent drafts. And with the ideal size to handle the physicality of the role, he stands to get playing time this season that will serve to accelerate his learning curve.

The Rams need to pair Ernest Jones with the right teammate, and Eichenberg's ability to cover sideline to sideline is an ideal yang to Jones' yin. The Rams have done their homework so far, subtly but decisively improving depth and talent across this roster. But will they do so with their remaining five picks?