Rams NFL Draft: Michigan TE Luke Schoonmaker as Offense Upgrade?
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While the Los Angeles Rams still have several needs to fill on their roster for the upcoming season, they would undoubtedly like to add some firepower to their offense.
After taking a rather conservative approach to the initial wave of free agency, many have speculated that the Rams may be looking to the 2023 NFL Draft to infuse some vitality -- along with an added weapon for quarterback Matthew Stafford -- into their scoring unit.
Despite the attention being provided to the receiver position, the Rams might be smart to consider selecting a prospect from a deep class of tight ends, perhaps into the mid-rounds of this month's Draft.
One player which projects as a fit for coach Sean McVay's team is Michigan tight end Luke Schoonmaker.
The former Wolverine originally projected as a day three selection. However, his recently-rising draft stock could see him come off the board on day two.
At his best, Schoonmaker is an effective pass-catcher, as well as a stout blocker in the run game. He combines both strength and body control to keep defenders at bay, while sealing the edges. In fact, he has become such an adept blocker that it has allowed him the chance to utilize the 'Y' delay concept in the passing game -- in which the linebacker drops to defend the pass, but the presumed blocking tight end takes an open passing lane. As a result, the Michigan Wolverine has the tools to be an effective offensive weapon off of play-action, attacking up the seams, in the flats, or on crossing routes.
He finished his 2022 season with Michigan with 35 catches for 418 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 11.9 yards-per-reception.
Schoonmaker projects as a solid fit in new coordinator Mike LaFleur's offense. LaFleur is at his best when utilizing 12-personnel packages (one running back, two tight ends, and two receivers and empty backfield formations on third down. Rams' new tight ends coach Nick Caley is also well-versed in this type of offense.
The Rams' current depth chart at tight end consists of incumbent starter Tyler Higbee, as well as Brycen Hopkins and Hunter Long, who arrived in Los Angeles as part of the trade which sent cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Miami Dolphins.
Though the Rams are unlikely to use their earliest round draft capital to secure Schoonmaker, they may be wise to keep their options open in the middle rounds.
Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL.
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