With the switch to the 3-4 defense, the Los Angeles Rams still had major needs at EDGE after only being able to add Connor Barwin in free agency. They likely had their 2 starters in Quinn and Barwin, but in today’s NFL you need your pass rushers to rotate and stay fresh throughout the game, and that’s where the Rams went at pick #125.
The Rams moved up to #125 which was originally owned by the Jets, and the Rams surrendered a 4th and 6th round pick in the process. The selected Eastern Washington EDGE Samson Ebukam who has the positional versatility to also kick inside.
Here’s a video from Lance Zierlein, showing the athleticism Ebukam really has:
This is why athletic traits matter to teams when they are looking at late round picks. #SamsonEbukam pic.twitter.com/0aASLnLiBf
— Lance Zierlein (@LanceZierlein) April 11, 2017
Here are his NFL.com draft profile listed strengths:
Explosive athlete with a background in basketball, javelin and shot-put in high school. Triggers out of his stance with quick-twitch as a rusher. Attacks the edge with plus burst and has the desire to keep working when he gets punched and controlled early. Wowed teams with a vertical leap of 39 inches and a sub 4.5 forty yard dash at his pro day. Plays with a suddenness when crashing down the line after ball carriers. Drawn to the play like a magnet. Lauded for intelligence and work ethic. Initial quickness creates disruption in run game. Chalked up 15 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles in 2016. Rangy with a willingness to pursue way down the field.
Poll
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29%
A
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43%
B
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19%
C
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4%
D
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2%
F