NFL Draft Wishlist: St Louis Rams
By Josh Carter
The St Louis Rams filled a lot of holes in last years draft pretty successfully. With the signings of Jared Cook and Jake Long, Sam Bradford should at least have some protection and a big target in 2013. If they can use this draft to get him another weapon who can come in and make an impact immediately, they can become a dangerous team this year. The Rams defense was a much improved unit in 2012 with the great rookie additions of Michael Brockers and Janoris Jenkins. However, they lost their starting safeties and might look to replace them in the early rounds of the draft. In regards to polishing off their remaining holes with immediate playmakers this spring, the Rams are sitting really pretty with 2 first round picks.
Feb 24, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers wide receiver Tavon Austin runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Round 1 – Tavon Austin, WR, WVU – I would be surprised if Tavon Austin is not at the top of the Rams draft board. He’s one of the most versatile receivers in the draft this year and can be used at both WR, slot receiver, the wildcat and in some situations even running back. Imagine Dexter McClustor versatility with Percy Harvin speed and you have Tavon Austin. Sam Bradford doesn’t just get a weapon but gets a nice new shiny swiss army knife in Austin because of the multiple ways he can be used.
Jan 26, 2013; Mobile, AL, USA; Senior Bowl north squad defensive back Jonathan Cyprien of Florida International (37) prior to kickoff of a game against the Senior Bowl south squad at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Round 1 – John Cyprien, FS, FIU – If the Rams just miss Kenny Vaccaro here, it’s no biggie because of John Cyprien, a small school safety with big time potential. A starter even as a true freshman Cyprien earned all-conference selections each of his 3 years at Florida International. After an impressive senior bowl showing, some scouts even have Cyprien rated above Kenny Vaccaro. This will be quite a splash for the Rams, especially if he can make an immediate impact like his former teammate, TY Hilton.