Will Former Coach Impact Los Angeles Rams' First-Round Draft Strategy?

The Los Angeles Rams have multiple options to choose from at edge rusher in Round 1. Will Raheem Morris' schematic tendencies shape their decision?

Sep 23, 2023; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jaheim Oatis (91) / Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Rams currently hold the 19th pick in the NFL Draft, where they are primed to add an instant contributor to an already bustling competitive roster.

Given the offensive talents atop this class, Los Angeles could find itself with one of the best defensive prospects in the class. Whether it be trying to fill the void defensive tackle Aaron Donald left or adding a high-profile edge rusher, prioritizing the pass rush is a must, and at No. 19, some figure to be available.

UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu is the most commonly mocked player by the Rams, per NFL Mock Draft Database, and for good reason. But if Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner slips past the Atlanta Falcons at No. 8, he could make the Rams’ choice a difficult one.

Sep 23, 2023; Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jaheim Oatis (91) / Gary Cosby Jr.-USA TODAY Sports

Their preference may be a matter of scheme rather than talent.

As Steve Palazzolo pointed out, Los Angeles led the league in snaps with at least one edge rusher in coverage (355). Among the top edge rushers in this year’s class, Turner easily has the most experience in this role, with 238 coverage snaps. Latu is the next highest – with 55.

Of course, last year’s defensive coordinator, Raheem Morris, is now the head coach of the Falcons. Perhaps that wrinkle increases the likelihood Turner heads to Atlanta. But it’s worth wondering whether Los Angeles defensive coordinator Chris Shula – who was on last year’s staff – will continue that idiosyncrasy.

Both Turner and Latu are strong contenders for the first defensive player off the board; Latu’s medicals being the largest difference in their stocks. Turner, though, is much better suited for a coverage-laden role. Running a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, he’s the faster of the two, and his experience in coverage is apparent. When not rushing the passer, Turner’s processing and functional athleticism tend to impress.

However, the Los Angeles faithful aren’t looking for an edge rusher who can successfully drop into coverage. That doesn’t take away from Turner’s proficiencies as a pass rusher, but watching former defensive tackle Michael Hoecht stray away from the line of scrimmage did more harm than good.

Ultimately, this is a problem that could be solved by other teams’ urgency. But if both are on the board at No. 19, general manager Les Snead’s selection could preview how Shula plans to attack offenses in 2024.