It is Mock Draft Monday on theRams.com, where we will be taking a look at experts' projections for who the Rams will select in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Since our first installment was published, we've seen edge continue to show up as a popular predicted position for Los Angeles to address with its highest pick. Mock drafts with projections for Rounds 2 and 3 have also been released.
Here's a roundup of the latest predictions:
Date: Feb. 15
Expert: Eddie Brown, Draft Analyst
The pick(s): Wisconsin OL Joe Tippmann (pictured above)
Notes: The 6-foot-6, 315-pound Tippmann played in all 12 of the Badgers' games, starting at center, and produced the best run blocking grade of any Wisconsin offensive lineman last season, according to Pro Football Focus. In pass protection, he allowed only one sack and five pressures over 338 pass blocking snaps. Though Tippman primarily played center, Brown said his size and athleticism could allow him to play anywhere along the interior.
The Draft Wire (USA TODAY)
Date: Feb. 16
Expert: Luke Easterling, editor
The pick(s): Georgia EDGE Nolan Smith (Second Round, No. 36 overall), Stanford CB Kyu Blu Kelly (Third Round, No. 69 overall)
Notes: Continuing what was seen in the initial mock draft roundup, the 6-3, 235 Smith remains a popular choice for the Rams in the second round. Smith led Georgia with a team-high 16 QB hurries and added 18 total tackles in eight starts prior to sustaining a season-ending torn pectoral muscle against Florida.
Kelly, meanwhile, was an All Pac-12 second team selection by conference coaches after producing 35 tackles (26 solo), a fumble recovery, and six pass breakups while starting and seeing action in 10 games in 2022.
Date: Feb. 13
Expert: Chad Reuter, Draft Analyst
The pick(s): Smith (Second Round, No. 36 overall), Boise State S JL Skinner III (Third Round, No. 69 overall)
Notes: See above for notes on Smith.
Skinner, 6-4, 218, was selected All-Mountain West First Team for his 65 tackles (36 solo) and team-high four interceptions and five pass breakups while starting in all 12 games he played in.
