The Los Angeles Rams have announced the signing of eight of their picks from the 2019 NFL Draft, including safety Taylor Rapp, running back Darrell Henderson Jr., cornerback David Long Jr., offensive lineman Bobby Evans, defensive tackle Greg Gaines, offensive lineman David Edwards, safety Nick Scott, and linebacker Dakota Allen.
The Rams took a rather patient approach in the draft as they hoped to stockpile on both a bevy of talented rookies. While the bulk of this year’s class came in the mid-to-late rounds, it is safe to say that some of them will be expected to make an immediate impact on both sides of the ball.
Rapp has the honor of being the Rams first pick in this year’s draft and many have already pegged him to be one of the more notable steals at his position. Although he may not have put on the strongest performance at the NFL’s Scouting Combine, Los Angeles was enamored with his versatile skill in the secondary that could allow for some more flexibility in defensive coordinator Wade Phillips’ scheme.
Meanwhile, the decision to take Henderson in the third round has caused even further speculation regarding the health of running back Todd Gurley. Regardless of the team’s plans for Gurley, it is clear that they felt they could not pass up on a player of his caliber while he was still available.
Speaking of offense, the Rams have put an emphasis on shoring up some young depth up front through the draft in recent years. Two of their picks from last year in guard Joseph Noteboom and center Brian Allen are slated to take over as starters going into the 2019 NFL season.
Los Angeles has continued their youth movement up front by bringing in both Evans and Edwards to compete for a job in of the most effective groups in the NFL. It remains to be seen which position offensive line coach Aaron Kromer plans to develop them at moving forward.
Gaines is among those that are expected to make an immediate impact alongside defensive tackle Aaron Donald. He established himself as a bit of an interior stalwart at Washington and the Rams are hoping he can help take some pressure off Donald in the run game and help replace the loss of Ndamukong Suh.
Meanwhile, Long, Scott, and Allen will be looking to make their bones as well. While they would ideally like for it to be at their position, they will undoubtedly be given a chance to produce on special teams moving forward.
