The Rams defense looks borderline unrecognizable heading into the 2023 NFL draft compared to the unit that took the field last season. Aaron Donald and Ernest Jones are really the only returning starters from a year ago, which means Los Angeles has a lot of rebuilding to do around them.
The draft is a good place to start, especially with 11 picks in their pocket. In Draft Wire’s latest mock draft, the Rams add another pick this year by trading down 12 spots with the Lions, turning the 36th pick (and a third-rounder in 2024) into the 48th and 55th selections in Round 2.
With those two selections, the Rams add a pair of defensive playmakers. At No. 48, they select Arkansas linebacker Drew Sanders, a versatile player who can play off the ball or rush the quarterback on the outside. He’s a big, athletic linebacker who started his career at Alabama, projecting well as an NFL prospect with his 6-4 frame and good range.
Seven picks later, the Rams select Texas A&M safety Antonio Johnson, addressing yet another need. Johnson has 4.52 speed and is 6-foot-2, so he has the build of an NFL safety. He also has the ability to play deep, in the box or cover the slot.
That’s the type of versatility the Rams need in the secondary with Jalen Ramsey, Nick Scott and Taylor Rapp all gone on defense. Johnson would have a chance to start right away for Los Angeles and develop into a quality safety.
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