Rams 2021 NFL Draft Primer: Matthew Stafford to the rescue
By Darral Nail
In year four of the Sean McVay experience, the Los Angeles Rams finished the regular season at 10-6, qualifying for the postseason after a year’s absence with a wildcard win over division rival Seattle to show for their efforts.
However, it was the post-script of the 2020 season that would chart the path for the franchise moving forward, as the team parted ways with quarterback Jared Goff, a former first overall pick who was one year into a $134 million contract that set a league record with $110 million of it guaranteed.
In exchange for the two-time Pro Bowler, who led the franchise to the game’s biggest stage in 2018, as well as two first round draft picks and a third rounder, the Rams secured the services of the 33-year-old Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Is Matthew Stafford the missing piece for Rams?
In granting McVay his wish at the game’s most important position, at great peril to the team’s finances and draft capital, owner Stan Kroenke and General Manager Les Snead are seeming of the opinion that the Stafford move will get the team over the proverbial hump and to the next level.
On the other side of the ball is a Rams defensive unit that finished the 2020 season ranked atop the league in total defense. While coordinator Brandon Staley has moved across the street to take the helm of the Chargers, incoming defensive play-caller Raheem Morris still has the likes of Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey with which to work.
Owning but 6 picks in this year’s draft, the Rams nonetheless have (essentially) 3 selections among the top 100, follow along as we take a closer look in the lead up to next week’s draft.