Rams' Draft Strategy: Late-Round Gems or Trade Back?

0:00On March 21st, the Los Angeles Rams have built a powerhouse since pairing General Manager Les Sneed with head coach Sean McVeigh back in 20. 17. Their secret? They've only picked once on day one of the NFL draft in all that time. Instead, they thrive by unearthing stars later on. Sneed has a knack for late-round gyms, like outside linebacker, Byron Young and defensive Lyman Kobe Turner in Round 3, plus undrafted left. Tackle Alleric Jackson, and Round 5, finds wide receiver Puka Nakua, and running back Kyron Williams. These picks have fueled playoff runs without chasing top prospects early. Now, heading into the draft, the Rams hold the 13th overall pick from Atlanta, sparking buzz about Sneed's next move. He's traded back twice out of three times before when armed with a first-rounder, and their current slate leaves big gaps after Round 3. They've got picks at 61st in Round 2, 93rd in Round 3. Then nothing until 207th in Round 6, followed by 3.

1:03Seventh rounders. That drought might push Sneed to deal the 13th spot for more ammo later, especially since elite talent could slip. While cornerbacks or wide receivers tempt at 13, they might not crack the lineup right away. Sneed's history points to another savvy tradeback, keeping the Rams diamond hunting ways alive for another year.