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Los Angeles Rams: 11 Targets in 2018 NFL Draft after Ndamukong Suh signing

By Michael Johnson

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - DECEMBER 31: Ndamukong Suh #93 of the Miami Dolphins during pregame against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
MIAMI GARDENS, FL - DECEMBER 31: Ndamukong Suh #93 of the Miami Dolphins during pregame against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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10. Rashaan Evans, ILB, Alabama

A two-year starter for a Nick Saban defense that’s produced a couple of studs at the same position over the past few drafts, Rashaan Evans is a modern-day linebacker with speed and athleticism that makes him an attractive prospect.

Although the Rams have Mark Barron, Evans’ experience in a 3-4 scheme as an inside backer make him a more attractive option than Barron, or he could be paired next to him for one season and used as the take-on linebacker. However, Wade Phillips will surly exploit Evans for his many talents.

What Evans does well is play through the trash when asked to mix it up in the trenches. He’s a majorly effective garbage-manwho moves comfortable and swiftly through the pile when going after the ball carrier. Then he catches his impending victim and lays the thunder on the suspecting back. There’s an extra burst that comes with Evans when he was asked to blitz. His additional ability to get to the quarterback makes him a dangerous X-factor.

11. Sam Hubbard, EDGE, Ohio State

Hubbard is one of the fringe first-round prospects who had a lot riding on his 40-yard dash. He ran a sub-5.0-second time at his pro day, but he’s not being drafted to be a track star. What Hubbard does have, despite his lackluster 40, is a relentless nature and nasty play style. He has quick hands and is an excellent tackler with a nose for the football.

Next: Grading each 2017 first-round pick after rookie year

He’d be perfect as the outside linebacker to play on the same side of Aaron Donald. The way Donald plays upfield as the inside 3-technique, the Rams need someone who can stop the run. The Rams leaky run defense was a major problem ans Hubbard’s strong play-style as he anchors against tackles he’d be ideally suited. On third downs, he’d be right at home with his hand in hte dirt, and with his frame plus strength he could kick inside and reek havoc there. If used correctly, he could have the same impact as Justin Houston or Ryan Kerrigan.

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