Draft Grades: Rams

The Rams did a poor job disguising their interest in Jason Smith, but once the Lions settled on Matthew Stafford there really wasn't any reason to cover it up. Smith likely isn't going earn a visit the Pro Bowl like recent top picks Joe Thomas and Jake Long, but he could be every bit as dominant down the road. He was the only prospect in this class that had the potential to live up the lofty expectations set by Orlando Pace for the past decade.

As much as I love the selection of Jason Smith, I think Laurinaitis could be every bit as good. I understand why he fell (lack of measurables and workout numbers) but you can't overlook how effective he is on the field. He's an on-field coach and will be the leader of the Rams defense in 2009.

I'm not very high on Bradley Fletcher. He has the size and athleticism to be a dominant player, but he struggled to make an impact in college and was only a one-year starter at Iowa. Additionally, he was arrested on drunk driving charges in 2007.

I like Dorell Scott. He could have been a first day pick if not for a disappointing senior year. Given that everone at Clemson had a disappointing 2008 season, I'm willing to assume that season was the exception, not the norm. He could be a steal and at worst, a nice addition to their defensive line rotation.

Brooks Foster is a decent 5th-round pick. He'll never be a standout receiver, but he could be a decent 3rd or 4th option. He has good size and speed but was inconsistent throughout college.

The Keith Null selection came out of nowhere. He put up some impressive numbers at West Texas A&M (where he was coached by Ryan Leaf) but I don't see him playing in the NFL. There were plenty of other options at quarterback I liked more than Null. I wouldn't be surprised if he failed to make the 53-man roster.

Chris Ogbonnaya was a surprising pick. I don't see him fitting into the Rams plans. He's a running back/fullback 'tweener, a lot like Brian Leonard. He'll struggle to sneak ahead of Antonio Pittman as the Rams third running back and likely won't beat out Mike Karney for the fullback job.

For the most part I like what the Rams did. They landed two immediate starters with their first two picks. And two others that should see playing time (Fletcher and Scott). However, they failed to land an impact receiver and a cornerback to push Tye Hill for playing time. Additionally, their late-round picks don't figure to make an impact, even has backups.

Grade: B