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Earlier this month, the Rams used their fifth round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft via the 2015 Supplemental Draft to select Clemson OT Isaiah Battle. It was a bit of a surprise because (a) the Supplemental Draft? Really? And (b) Battle's more of an athletic pass blocker, not the mauling type that the Rams have seemed to covet under Head Coach Jeff Fisher.
So just how does Battle fit into the 2015 offensive line overhaul?
Roster Battle
As per usual for the O-line pieces in this roster preview series, here's your full reminder of the clusterbutter: (alphabetical order, first-year Rams denoted by *): Steven Baker (roster preview), Battle*, Tim Barnes, Travis Bond (roster preview), Jamon Brown*, Andrew Donnal* (roster preview), Rob Havenstein*, Barrett Jones, Garrett Reynolds* (roster preview), Demetrius Rhaney (roster preview), Greg Robinson, Rodger Saffold, David Wang* (roster preview), Brandon Washington (roster preview), Darrell Williams* (roster preview) and Cody Wichmann* (roster preview).
Battle's almost entirely limited to the tackle positions, though as Brian Goodison, the manager of SB Nation's Clemson community, Shakin the Southland, pointed out in a Q&A we did after the Rams took him, Battle has experience on both sides of the line. That versatility is also a hallmark of Fisher offensive linemen.
As I said in the Donnal preview piece, I think it's between he and Battle for a potential third tackle spot.
Expectations
Having spent a future draft pick on him, the Rams were at least willing to invest in Battle. That puts him ahead of the UDFA crop, though nothing will be handed to him this week as he arrives to camp and beyond.
Chances of Making Final Roster (5.5/10)
Donnal's style I think gives him an edge up, though I can't discount Battle entirely. Perhaps his athleticism is tantalizing enough to stand out in a group that doesn't specialize in that style. Still, I think the Rams can comfortably be patient with Battle and stash him in year one with the hopes that time will only help his game.