NFL Network's Chad Reuter named his ideal first two picks for each team in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
For the Los Angeles Rams, Reuter chose two defensive players: Florida State edge rusher Jared Verse and Ohio State defensive tackle Michael Hall Jr.
"Verse would be such a bargain for the Rams at No. 19. His heavy hands and relentless passion for attacking ball-carriers would instantly improve the team's pass rush without sacrificing strength against the run. Aaron Donald's retirement means the Rams will be looking for an active interior player to pair with second-year DT Kobie Turner. Hall is exactly that: a disruptive force in the middle of the defense who is a problem for opposing offensive linemen."
These picks fill needs, as the Rams are looking to overhaul their front seven after Aaron Donald's retirement. In a vacuum, they make sense and would add two disruptive players to the Rams' defense. It's not a secret the Rams are earnestly searching for pass rushers and might add several in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
I'm not sold on their fit with the Rams' defense however. The Rams are an odd front team, and ideally Verse is an even front defensive end, with his hand in the dirt. That's not to say they can't make it work and Verse isn't capable of fitting with the team, I just don't believe it's his best role.
With Michael Hall Jr., he's an overlapping skill set. The Rams already have a disruptive pass-rushing three-technique at defensive tackle. While it's nice to have a surplus of those players, the Rams' lack of depth at other spots on the defensive line makes it feel like an unnecessary luxury pick.
