NFL Mock Draft: Rams Land Highly-Touted QB Hendon Hooker in Round 3
Could the Los Angeles Rams land their quarterback of the future in the 2023 NFL Draft?
Given that the Rams don’t have a first-round pick in this draft, that seems like a tall order. However, they may be able to land a signal caller if the draft plays out just right, as is the case in CBS Sports’ latest mock draft.
At No. 69 overall, CBS Sports has the Rams landing Tennessee star quarterback Hendon Hooker.
Some Rams fans may balk at the idea of taking a quarterback on Day 2 with several other needs throughout the roster. It is worth noting that this mock has the Rams addressing their offensive line needs first and foremost, taking North Dakota State’s Cody Mauch at No. 36. Los Angeles also addresses other needs such as cornerback and defensive line on Day 3 in this mock.
Hooker was one of the brightest stars in college football in 2022, and was even the Heisman favorite for much of the season. In 11 games, Hooker completed 69.6% of his passes for 3,135 yards and 27 touchdowns with only two interceptions. He also ran for 430 yards and five touchdowns, showing solid dual-threat ability. After transferring from Virginia Tech following the 2020 season, Hooker was one of the nation’s best quarterbacks in his two seasons at Tennessee.
However, there are some serious concerns regarding Hooker as an NFL prospect. The biggest one is that he is already 25, older than Justin Herbert, who is entering his fourth NFL season. He also suffered a torn ACL in November, and how effective he will be upon returning is still a mystery.
The good news is that Hooker wouldn’t have to start right away for the Rams. He could sit behind Matthew Stafford to start his career, then take over once Stafford leaves or retires.
The question regarding this pick is whether or not Hooker would even be available this late in the draft. His draft stock has skyrocketed recently, with many mocks now projecting him as a first-round pick. It’s unclear whether Hooker will even make it to the second round, let alone the third.
Selecting Hooker would certainly be a risky move for the Rams, if it’s even possible. If he can live up to his college production, though, then it will be well worth it.
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