Analysis
5/1/23
5 min read
L.A. Rams NFL Draft Grades 2023: Steve Avila Pick Earns 'D'
The 2023 NFL Draft is complete, and the Los Angeles Rams made 14 picks.
After winning the Super Bowl the season before, the Rams fell to 5-12, so they needed to draft well to become relevant again in the NFC.
The 33rd Team Scouting Dept. graded every pick in this year’s draft, here's how the Rams fared:
Los Angeles Rams 2023 NFL Draft Grades
36. Steve Avila, G, TCU
Steve Avila (scouting report) has position flexibility: He can play center and guard. He is a big, strong lineman who can get movement off the line of scrimmage and locks on defenders with his strong hands. He has some athletic limitations and will be exposed in space at times. The Rams need help on the offensive line, and Avila gives them a young player who can help build toward the future.
Grade: D
77. Byron Young, Edge, Tennessee
The Rams select an explosive pass rusher with outstanding burst. Byron Young (scouting report) hits top speed quickly and can really close in the open field. He needs to improve his strength and technique in the run game, but what he will bring to the Rams can't be taught.
Grade: A
89. Kobie Turner, DL, Wake Forest
This is a bit of a reach for a player that wasn't at this year's combine. Kobie Turner (scouting report) is an undersized defensive tackle who has some bend and good overall movement skills. He had 43 tackles-for-loss during his career at Richmond and Wake Forest.
Grade: D
128. Stetson Bennett, QB, Georgia
Stetson Bennett (scouting report) is a two-time national champion at Georgia. He is a sneaky athlete who has good pocket awareness and makes good decisions with the football. While not physically imposing, he does have some interesting traits.
Grade: B
161. Nick Hampton, Edge, Appalachian State
Nick Hampton (scouting report) has good size and length. He is a raw player who needs to refine some of the finer points of his game but has top level movement skills and athleticism. He should get stronger and improve in the run game. Hampton has a high ceiling.
Grade: B+
174. Warren McClendon Jr., OT, Georgia
Warren McClendon (scouting report) has position flexibility and is a productive player with upside. He plays with good awareness and instincts. The Rams continued to fill needs.
Grade: B
175. Davis Allen, TE, Clemson
Davis Allen (scouting report) is a solid in-line blocking tight end with good size and bulk. He shows good toughness and ability in the run game. He lacks speed and downfield ability to be a consistent threat in the passing game. This is excellent value for the Rams. He will be a blocking TE and core special teamer.
Grade: B+
177. Puka Nacua, WR, BYU
Puka Nacua (scouting report) is a good-sized receiver who can play inside and outside in college. He showed reliable hands when the ball was thrown his way. He is just an average overall athlete with few top-tier traits.
Grade: C+
182. Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB, TCU
The nephew of Ladainian Tomlinson. Tre'Vius Hodges-Tomlinson (scouting report) lacks size and length for the position. He is an explosive athlete who ran fast (4.41) and hits top speed quickly. He has good feet, balance, and body control. In his career, he had 36 pass breakups and five interceptions.
Grade: B-
189. Ochaun Mathis, Edge, Nebraska
Ochaun Mathis (scouting report) has rare length and above-average athleticism. He is an active player, but he lacks rush instincts, arsenal and/or explosiveness to be a difference maker. He has some untapped potential.
Grade: C
215. Zach Evans, RB, Ole Miss
Zach Evans (scouting report) has good speed, athleticism, and balance for a running back. He needs to be a better finisher, but he does have some ability and could hang on and make it into their rotation. He has a chance to help on special teams.
Grade: B
234. Ethan Evans, P, Wingate
Ethan Evans (scouting report) had a 40.9 punt average for his career and 35 punts inside the 20 yard line. Evans has an explosive leg and the ball pops off his foot. He has a good shot to make this club and contribute.
Grade: C
245. Jason Taylor II, SAF, Oklahoma State
Jason Taylor II (scouting report) is an explosive athlete with good length. He had eight career interceptions, one touchdown, 159 total tackles and 19 PBUs.
Grade: C
259. Desjuan Johnson, Edge, Toledo
Desjaun Johnson (scouting report) had 210 total tackles and 14.5 sacks in his career at Toledo. He lacks ideal size for the position and has just average arm length. He should battle for a roster spot with the Rams.
Grade: C
