It was possible but doubtful, given their needs, that the Los Angeles Rams would make an aggressive move upwards in the 2020 NFL draft to capture a first-round talent. Now that the curiosity of it all has passed it’s time to get real and examine what must happen on the Rams day two 2020 NFL draft to keep pace (or not lose any more ground) in the NFL, and most especially, the NFC West offseason race – new Rams head logo notwithstanding.
Contrary to the opinions of many NFL experts, the Rams will likely not select an edge rusher, running back or wide receiver with their first or second picks. However, it is in the realm of possibility they will address their most concerning needs: offensive lineman and linebacker. The odds are way better that some surprising talent either falls to their spot or has impressed the Rams staff enough to get boosted upwards on their draft board to eliminate any undue risks.
Los Angeles Rams Day Two 2020 NFL Draft Targets
The Division Competition – Day One
The 2019 NFC West Champion San Francisco 49ers appeared to have gotten richer at first glance. South Carolina’s Javon Kinlaw (defensive tackle) was their first of two day one selections, the second being Brandon Aiyuk, the talented wide receiver out of Arizona State.
The Seattle Seahawks pounced on linebacker Jordyn Brooks formerly of Texas Tech, possibly rather early. He may be a beast in the NFL for years to come if he stays healthy.
The NFC West bottom-feeding Arizona Cardinals took a giant step towards where they will need to be to be competitive, drafting the well-regarded Clemson linebacker /safety hybrid, Isaiah Simmons.
All three of the Rams division opponents did very well for themselves in strengthening their defensive early on. The Rams with wonder coach Sean McVay must now make a statement. Actually, they need to make two bold statements in their 2020 draft debut. Their 52nd and 57th selections can do just that, as both arrive before the 49ers, Cardinals, and Seahawks have a chance to pluck from the day two pool.
Targets for the Rams Day Two 2020 NFL Draft
Offensive Linemen. Two of them, at least in two of their first three selections. Here are three recommendations:
Center, Lloyd Cushenberry (LSU) – Cushenberry is a mentally tenacious, tough son of a gun. He excels in the run game but needs to improve lateral movement. Still, if the Rams can land him it cranks up ball control a couple of spots on the meter. Great punch in his upper body and hands can catch defensive linemen with their guards down. Lots of upside here.
Guard, Netane Muti (Fresno State) – Muti is possibly the best guard on the board day two, especially if he hadn’t been injured in both 2018 and 2019. He can be a physically strong force when on the field and a mauler on run plays. Short arms is his knock but he could possibly have something to say to anyone that thinks he can’t be effective as a starter.
Offensive Tackle, Prince Tega Wanogho (Auburn) – Wanogho is particularly interesting because his knee swelling at the Senior Bowl may have sent up red flags and he could become quite the value pick. He is another ex-basketball player with athleticism so he’ll be a mover and shaker. He’s not as experienced as many others and will need top-tier coaching to take advantage of his huge upside.
Tackle Josh Jones (Houston) was not included simply because he is expected to be long gone by the time the Rams pick. Three linebackers are intriguing enough for honorable mentions: Mississippi’s Willie Gay Jr., Wisconsin’s Zack Baun and Appalachian State’s Akeem Davis-Gaither.
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