Here’s what NFL.com is saying about Rams picks

Needs Analysis: St. Louis had its season unravel as the injuries began to mount on the offensive line. The team finally addressed that need by drafting tackle John Greco in the third round. Defensive end Chris Long means that last year’s top pick Adam Carriker will remain on the inside and give the club a pretty good foundation on the defensive line. The team released long-time receiver Isaac Bruce during the offseason, so taking Donnie Avery in the second round and Keenan Burton in the fourth round answers the call at the position.

Rd. 1, Pick 2–Chris Long, DE Virginia.  For the second straight year, the Rams go with a defensive lineman in the first round. Long played as a true freshman in 2004 and started 37 games over the past three years at Virginia. His best traits are strength and a quick first step. He will be used as an edge rusher in the 4-3 scheme employed by the Rams

Rd. 2, Pick 33–Donnie Avery, WR Houston. Few had Avery as their No. 1 wide receiver, but Scott Linehan loves speed. Avery ran really fast at his pro day (4.34) after a slower time at the combine because he was dealing with an injury. He should be a good fit for the system in St. Louis.

Rd. 3, Pick 65–John Greco, OT Toledo.  The Rams are looking to get more physical up front, and in Greco they get a guy with a lot of potential. He performed really well at the Senior Bowl. He’s somewhat under the radar, coming from a smaller school, but has shown solid promise.

Rd. 4, Pick 101–Justin King, CB Penn State.  King is probably the fastest corner remaining and is a good value at this point in the draft. He’ll probably play as a nickelback in St. Louis.

Rd. 4, Pick 128–Keenan Barton, WR Kentucky.  Burton is a fast player and has good size. His measurables are strong and he was productive at Kentucky. The Rams are known for producing good receivers and Burton has a chance to join the list.

Rd. 5, Pick 157–Roy Schuening-OG Oregon State.  Schuening made 50 college starts, but played most of this year with pneumonia and couldn’t shake it, going in and out of IVs. He did not play particularly well against Sedrick Ellis, but had a good career at Oregon State and is a very solid player.

Rd. 7, Pick 228–Chris Chamberlain-DB Tulsa.  Tulsa had a large crowd at its pro day because of quarterback Paul Smith. However, Chamberlin was the guy who ended up wowing scouts with his incredible workout. His measurables and skills are impressive. He has a chance to compete for a roster spot and should be a good special teams player.

Rd. 7, Pick 252–David Vobora-LB Idaho.  Vobora projects as a linebacker. He had a great workout and fits at the will position. He could find a place in the league based on his talent and athleticism.  Was Idaho’s leader on defense last three years.



Missourinet