2019 NFL Mock Draft: Jets have edge, Browns get defensive in two-round projection
By Randy Gurzi
31. Los Angeles Rams: Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
The Los Angeles Rams went out last offseason and loaded up in an effort to chase a Super Bowl ring. They added plenty of talent on both sides of the line of scrimmage, but fell just short as they lost to the New England Patriots in the title game. A big part of the problem in that game was their inability to move the ball on the Pats defense. Adding a legitimate threat at tight end may have made a difference, and Noah Fant fits that bill.
Fant becomes our first tight end off the board and what sets him apart is his ability to create mismatches as a pass catcher from his position. Grant Tuttle from With the First Pick highlights this as one of his biggest strengths.
"“Noah Fant can look like an oversized wide receiver from time to time. His ability to cut in and out of routes is impressive. With good footwork and very good speed for his size, he runs very fluid routes. With his size and fluid route running, he can create an incredible mismatch with any defender breaking in and out of his routes.” — Tuttle, With the First Pick"
The Iowa product has all the tools to be an elite tight end and posted 19 touchdowns in his career while averaging 13.9 yards per grab. He would continue to find space to operate on a Rams team that has great receiving options all over the field — meaning defenses won’t be able to zero in on the 6-foot-5 target.