For the second year in a row, the Rams used a third-round pick on a big, physical press corner. Last year’s pick, Bradley Fletcher, showed great promise until he wrecked his knee in the “House of Horrors” (otherwise known as the Edward Jones Dome). Jerome Murphy isn’t quite a re-do, as the Rams expect Fletcher to come back, but a continuation of the same philosophy on defense.
ottoman89 @zachmentz Yeah I’m super stoked for him! I love the 2nd rd pickup and LOVE LOVE Jerome Murphy!
Quick Reaction
The scouting reports on Murphy are very positive for what the Rams want to do. He’s a very hard hitter, very confident physical player, who says he “hits like he doesn’t care.”
Ideal height and bulk — Excellent athleticism — Good speed and acceleration with a burst — Transitions well thanks to fluid hips and quick feet — Is tough and physical — Gets a great jam at the line — A willing and able tackler — Does a fantastic job against the run — Nice instincts and awareness — Soft hands — Decent ball skills — Terrific leaping ability — Competitive — Confident — Durable — Experienced.
— Draft Countdown: “Jerome Murphy Scouting Report“
I like the pick, but I’m troubled by the Rams’ lackadaisical approach to the necessary counterpart of having physical press corners — their impotent pass rush. Without speed to the quarterback, even the best cover cornerbacks will eventually allow a window to the receiver. And we aren’t drafting “cover” guys, we’re drafting physical jammers, gamblers. This plan requires even more pressure to pay off.
Leonard Little is not showing signs of returning to St Louis, and even if he does, the Rams need to be grooming his replacement now. Re-signing James Hall is a stopgap solution at best, and Fred Robbins is simply a space eater, and possibly a rotational player. Cliff Ryan will be back, and he was firm against the run but again not fast enough to the passer.
That’s an idea worth exploring… And perhaps fifth round pick Hall Davis will help as well.
