2012-2016- The Fisher Era

2016 NFL Draft: The Los Angeles Rams pick up steal with WR Pharoh Cooper

The Los Angeles Rams may not have a true No. 1 receiver, but they may have helped their receiving corps by adding Pharoh Cooper in the fourth round (117th overall) in the 2016 NFL Draft. It’s not possible to scout for a No. 1 receiver in the fourth round, but the Rams did add much needed game speed.

There is no doubt in my mind about it this was the best move the Rams could have done. Drafting QB Jared Goff is a game changer, because now the Rams have a quarterback capable of making all the throws, and Cooper can potentially stretch the field. His 40-time (4.63) was not strong, but he plays fast in games. Cooper’s first steps off the line of scrimmage are among the fastest out there, and he is often almost at full speed within his first 10 yards. It may not seem like it, but adding another playmaker was necessary for the Rams, because only WR Tavon Austin plays with a similar style.

One of Cooper’s biggest upsides is that he can be difficult to bring down because of his small, yet bulky frame. He also manages to keep great balance and makes defenders pay if they get lazy and attempt to push him out of bounds. Cooper is a workhorse and was beloved at South Carolina because of it. His numbers show how much he poured into the Gamecocks on the field. He produced 2,676 yards from scrimmage and 22 total touchdowns in his college career.

What is a bit concerning is Cooper’s route-running ability. He will basically run a straight line, and he will need to work on that to be successful at the next level. A little time with Isaac Bruce or Torry Holt would definitely help, so if I’m Jeff Fisher or Les Snead, I am making a quick phone call. Besides, the future Hall of Famers could teach a thing or two to the entire receiving corps.

Many experts correctly see this move as drafting for a position of need. However, this was also a value pick, since some NFL scouts had Cooper being drafted as a late Day 2 prospect. Also, this year’s draft didn’t have many reliable playmakers, so overall I couldn’t be happier with this selection. I’m sure Goff wasn’t disappointed either.

Source: Sports-reference.com

You can follow Johnny Gomez on Twitter @Johnny5not6. Be sure to follow Rams Talk on Twitter @TalkRams.

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