The Conductor may have a lot more to say about the Rams defense in 2024

This Rams rookie got ripped off re: ROY honors in 2023

Unlike many rookie starters in 2023, this 6-foot-2 288-pound Rams rookie played in just 62 percent of the team's defensive snaps. In raw count, that equated to 697 defensive snaps. And yet, even as he competed in a limited number of defensive plays, he led all NFL rookies in 2023 with 9.0 quarterback sacks. But that is just the beginning of his defensive production last season.

Turner put up 57 tackles, recorded eight tackles for a loss, created 16 quarterback hits, and was able to get his hands up and deflect two passes. In terms of getting after opposing quarterbacks, he did record 9.0 quarterback sacks to lead all rookies, but he also put up four quarterback hurries, five quarterback knockdowns, 16 quarterback hits, and 20 quarterback pressures.

What is most unusual about all of this is the fact that he accomplished all of that impressive production from an interior defensive line position. In fact, he lined up as the Rams nose tackle most of all. How many NFL nose tackles can you think of with that level of production in their rookie season?

It's that historical anomaly that should have earned Kobie Turner Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. But, don't take my word for it:

Turner outperformed DROY award winner Will Anderson in numerous key areas, and did so while facing far more double teams throughout the season. The reason for the disparity? Anderson was selected by the Houston Texans with the third overall selection of the 2023 NFL Draft. Turner was selected with the 89th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, a spot that many draft analysts shamed the Rams front office over because they viewed the selection as a 'reach.'

Isn't it funny how those same voices would rather tout someone less worthy than admit openly that they were wrong about him in their draft analysis and draft profiles?