Rams get third-round draft comp pick

The Rams received some much-needed draft firepower Tuesday afternoon when the NFL announced their annual compensatory picks.

The Rams received the 40^th pick in the third round. It is the 104^th pick of the draft and third-to-last pick of the third round and the Friday night session of the draft.

Without a first-round pick (because of the Jalen Ramsey-Jacksonville trade), this extra pick is crucial for the Rams. They now have No. 52 in the second round and No. 84 and No. 104 in the third round.

With more needs than in recent years, this extra pick is very valuable for the Rams. The comp picks can be traded, so the Rams could package to move up or down in the draft if they like.

Fifteen teams received comp picks this year. Comp picks are assigned in a formula based off the previous year’s free agency and the value of players lost compared to players signed. It was determined the Rams lost more in free agency than they gained in 2019.

The players the Rams lost that contributed to this pick were defensive back LaMarcus Joyner (Raiders) and guard Roger Saffold (Tennessee). The only player the Rams signed that was used in the formula was linebacker Clay Matthews. He played in 13 games and had 37 tackles last season.

Since-retired safety Eric Weddle wasn’t used in the formula because the Rams signed him after he was released by Baltimore and wasn’t a traditional free agent.