Rams draft choices look good on paper

Like all draft days in any sport, its puts your instincts and gut feelings to the ultimate test. A player who looks good in college may not be able to make the transition to the next level and that's why there is so much pressure on scouts and coaches to make the right decisions.

In the case of the 2020 Rams draft last month only time will tell whether the nine players they drafted will make an impact in their first year in the National Football League (NFL).

One thing is for sure, the Rams will have a different team in 2020 if the season is even played. The next few months everyone will have a better idea of what's really going to happen due to the coronavirus.

If the season is played the Rams will have new coaches and new players on the sidelines. Some of the players and coaches that are no longer with the team are All-Pro running back Todd Gurley II, speedy wide receiver Brandon Cooks, kicker Greg Zuerlein, special teams coach John 'Bones' Fassel and defensive coordinator Wade Phillips.

Can the nine drafted rookies help the team in their first year? Once again time will tell. The Rams are hoping second round picks, running back Cam Akers from Florida State, wide receiver Van Jefferson from Florida, third round picks, linebacker Terrell Lewis from Alabama and defensive back Terrell Burgess from Utah are as good as advertised.

Other players that were drafted and hope to make an impact are fourth round pick, tight end Brycen Hopkins from Purdue, sixth round pick, safety Jordan Fuller from Ohio State and seventh round picks offensive lineman Tremayne Anchrum from Clemson, kicker Samuel Sloman from Miami of Ohio and linebacker Clay Johnston from Baylor.

Akers appears to have the biggest shoes to fill helping to replace Gurley. "It's a blessing to be in this position and to be a part of such a great organization," said Akers last month. "Whatever the team needs me to do that is what I will do. I am elated. It's an opportunity that I am ready to take advantage of."