The Pro Football Writers of America gave the Los Angeles Rams’ rookie class a ton of praise on Tuesday with the release of its 2023 All-Rookie Team. The PFWA voted four Rams to the team, which is the most of any team in the NFL this season.
Puka Nacua was selected at wide receiver, with Steve Avila making it at guard. On defense, Kobie Turner and Byron Young were both selected after putting together outstanding seasons with nine and eight sacks, respectively.
The next-closest team to the Rams was the Lions, who had three players selected. A total of 17 teams had rookies selected by the PFWA.
The only other Rams player who had a case was punter Ethan Evans, but he didn’t have the season that Bryce Baringer of the Patriots had. Evans averaged only 38.4 net yards per punt, which was the second-worst among qualified punters.
The PFWA also announced its Rookie of the Year awards, which came with some bad news for two Rams hopefuls. Nacua was edged out by C.J. Stroud, who won Rookie of the Year and Offensive Rookie of the Year. Fellow Texans standout Will Anderson Jr. was voted the Defensive Rookie of the Year by the PFWA, too, beating out Turner.
These aren’t the official awards recognized by the NFL like the Associated Press’ awards, but it’s an indication that Nacua and Turner could be snubbed when the AP reveals its selections next month.