Los Angeles Rams to Pick Defensive Texas Tackle Byron Murphy In Latest Mock Draft

The Los Angeles Rams can never replace Aaron Donald, but in the lastest mock draft from The 33rd Team, they will address the need.

Defensive lineman Byron Murphy runs through drills at Texas Longhorns Football Pro Day at Frank / Jay Janner / American-Statesman / USA

Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Byron Murphy has emerged as a popular pick to help fill the void left by the retirement of Aaron Donald at the 19th overall pick in the NFL Draft later this month.

Filling the void left by Aaron Donald's retirement will obviously be no small task for the Rams. Donald, one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history, leaves big shoes to fill with his disruptive presence on the defensive line. However, the Rams are ready to address this challenge by targeting defensive tackle prospects like Texas Longhorn Byron Murphy in the 2024 draft.

As they navigate the post-Donald era, the Rams will rely on a collective effort from their defensive unit to step up and fill the void left by their legendary defensive lineman.

Defensive lineman Byron Murphy runs through drills at Texas Longhorns Football Pro Day at Frank / Jay Janner / American-Statesman / USA

"The Los Angeles Rams won't reach for a defensive tackle just because Aaron Donald retired, but they don't have to in this mock draft," The 33rd Team wrote. "The top defensive tackle falls to them at No. 19 after so many offensive linemen come off the board. Byron Murphy is undersized but has a ton of pass-rushing upside. He would be a steal for the Rams in Round 1."

Despite his relatively undersized stature at 6'1 weighing 297 pounds, Murphy showcases a wealth of pass-rushing potential, positioning himself as a valuable asset for the Rams' defensive line.

With his combination of agility, technique, and disruptive ability, Murphy has the versatility to make an immediate impact in the NFL, especially within the Rams' defensive scheme under defensive coordinator Raheem Morris.

While no single player can replicate Donald's impact, Murphy's emergence as a top-tier defensive tackle prospect offers hope for the Rams. With Murphy's potential to generate interior pressure and disrupt passing lanes, the Rams aim to maintain a formidable presence along their defensive front despite Donald's absence.