The Los Angeles Rams added to their offensive draft class when they selected South Carolina wide receiver Pharoh Cooper 117th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft on Saturday, April 30. The pick came after the Rams traded the 113th overall pick to the Chicago Bears in exchange for the 117th pick and a 2016 sixth round draft pick (206th overall).
The Rams were in desperate need of more speed, and while Cooper doesn’t have the flashiest 40-time, he does have solid game-speed. Currently, only WR Tavon Austin really stretches the field for the Rams, and Cooper provides another option for QB Jared Goff. Cooper is also strong and harder to take down with his bulky frame. He stands just under six feet tall, but he can easily score if given a tiny bit of space.
While his size is a reason why Cooper dropped to Day 3, the main reason is the lack of route-running skills. He will need to work heavily with veteran receivers and the coaching staff in order to improve his routes. Cooper basically runs in a straight line and anything more throws off his speed.
Still, Cooper’s numbers while at South Carolina are impressive. He is a playmaker, who demonstrated that by recording 2,109 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in the past two years. Look for him also to compete for a special teams role.
Source: Sports-reference.com
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