2016-Present

Offseason 2017: The Los Angeles Rams undrafted free agent class

Most fans and experts focus on NFL Draft prospects as the future of a franchise. However, don’t overlook the undrafted free agents. They may not come with the fame or flare as the drafted players, but the Los Angeles Rams seem to have a knack for finding diamonds in the rough. Here’s a look at the Rams’ 2017 undrafted free agent class:

CB Aarion Penton, Missouri

Penton has great hands, plays well with a ball in his hands and reads receivers well. That said, he’s undersized and doesn’t adjust well to transitions. The best way he makes the roster is if performs well on special teams.

CB Dravious Wright, North Carolina State

Wright isn’t given enough credit for his physicality. He is hard hitter, which is always fun to watch. Wright is capable of playing nickel, but isn’t a stranger to safety. Both qualities are intriguing and could provide depth or end up on the practice squad.

DT Casey Sayles, Ohio State

Sayles is a decent player overall, but he doesn’t really separate himself from the pack. Considering the limited space available on the defensive line, it will be tough for Sayles to make the roster.

C Anthony McMeans, New Mexico State

The Rams could use some more depth at center, and McMeans demonstrated his strength often at the position. However, his hand placement and technique needs work. If he’s a fast learner, he may squeak his way on to the roster or practice squad.

LB Kevin Davis, Colorado State

Davis is a physical specimen, who relies solely on his athleticism. He’s quick and reaches his target when untested, but he seriously lacks strength. He doesn’t wrap up tackles and can be contained quickly.

LB Folarin Orimolade, Dartmouth

Most of Orimolade’s success came from pass rushing, though he isn’t a stranger to stopping the run either. He played on the inside, but he will likely play on the outside as a situational pass rusher. The Rams could use more depth in this area.

RB Justin Davis, USC

Davis is a strategic runner, who attempts to make full use of his blockers. He is extremely quick, especially off the snap. However, he often doesn’t try to break tackles and has ball-security issues.

OG Jake Eldrenkamp, Washington

Much of the knock on Eldrenkamp is his frame. He doesn’t have the width, girth or power currently, but he is athletic, has excellent technique and works well with his hands. Considering the lack of depth the Rams have on the offensive line, there is a good shot he will make the roster. In truth, Eldrenkamp is possibly the best pickup of all the undrafted free agents.

TE Johnny Mundt, Oregon

Injuries plagued Mundt throughout his collegiate career. He was a highly-touted recruit, and did show flashes of talent when healthy. If he stays healthy and showcases his ability, he may find a spot on the roster or the practice squad.

CB Jared Collins, Arkansas

Collins possesses a smaller frame and relies primarily on his quick feet and speed. He doesn’t offer much in terms of strength or tackling, but he could make the roster as a special teamer if he proves himself.

CB/WR Ishmael Adams, UCLA

Initially, Adams began his career as a corner but was asked to move to receiver during his senior year due to lack of depth. He proved to be a much better cover corner, but he lacks the ideal size and frame. His quickness though made him an effective weapon in special teams, and Adams could contribute to both sides of the ball if asked. There could be an interesting position battle brewing.

RB De’Mard Llorens, Northwestern State

Llorens was a standout at Northwestern State who produced an eye-catching Pro Day. That said, he doesn’t have one major strength in his toolbox. He could provide depth if he applies himself.

WR Shakeir Ryan, Northwestern State

Ryan made a name for himself as a go-to target and an exciting punt returner. His speed is intriguing, but he is undersized and has a small frame. Yet another candidate for special teams.

QB Matt Davis, SMU

A torn ACL concerns scouts about Davis, but he had a decent collegiate career. What makes him particularly exciting is that he is a dual-threat QB. If he makes some noise in training camp or the preseason, Davis could replace Aaron Murray or at least making the practice squad.

OL Kwayde Miller, San Diego State

Miller has a great size and frame, but he plays a little too stiff at times. His versatility is also intriguing since he played primarily as a tackle and he also played as a guard. The Rams’ lack of depth could land him a spot on the roster if he performs well.

RB Lenard Tillery, Southern University

A standout in his school and conference, Tillery showcased his talents despite being undersized. He’s an unknown commodity, because he didn’t face nearly the competition that his new peers did. Still, stranger things have happened.

OG Alex Kozan, Auburn

Kozan demonstrated some skills as a pull blocker. He has quick feet for someone his size, but he needs to work on his footwork technique. Kozan is not the strongest guard out there or the most athletic, yet he is a student of the game. If he listens to the coaching staff, he may still have a shot on the roster.

Source: Spotrac.com

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

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