Rams News: LA Prioritizes Defense In Fresh 7-Round Mock

The Los Angeles Rams possess 11 picks in next week's 2024 NFL draft. For the first time since 2016, the Rams will hold a pick in the first round.

Although Rams general manager Les Snead may trade back to collect more picks, that isn't the case in this latest mock draft by LAFB Network's Ryan Dryud and Ryan Anderson.

LA's first-round pick in this mock draft is Laiatu Latu, an edge rusher from UCLA. The PFF big board has him at #11, and the LAFB folks grade this theoretical pick with an A+. Latu is among the best pass rushers in the draft. Although he is a little older than the other players in his position, there is no denying his ability to get to the backfield.

Following the Latu pick, Anderson has the Rams going with Michigan defensive interior lineman Kris Jenkins, South Carolina quarterback Spencer Rattler, Notre Dame running back Audric Estime, USC wide receiver Tahj Washington, LSU defensive interior lineman Mekhi Wingo, Illinois tight end Tip Reiman, Nebraska safety Omar Brown. Penn State Caedan Wallace, Ohio State linebacker Steele Chambers and Alabama kicker Will Reichard.

Selecting the right defenders will be crucial for the Rams as they lost their best player in franchise history and arguably the best player of this generation, Aaron Donald.

No one can ever replace Donald. However, if the Rams can repeat their draft success from last season this season, they'll be just fine on defense with new defensive coordinator Chris Shula.