The Los Angeles Rams addressed many of their top needs in free agency this offseason, providing general manager Les Snead with more flexibility in the 2024 NFL Draft. With at least four quarterbacks expected to go in the top-10 picks, Los Angeles seems to be preparing for an outcome where one of the 10 best players in this year’s class falls.
Heading into April, positions like defensive tackle, edge rusher and offensive tackle are viewed as some of the top Rams draft needs in 2024. Fortunately for Los Angeles, there are blue-chip talents at every position and there is a distinct chance one of them slides to the 19th overall pick.
Related: Los Angeles Rams mock draft roundup 2024
While it’s doubtful that someone like edge rusher Dallas Turner or offensive tackle Olu Fashanu make it out of the top 10 selections, others could fall with four quarterbacks being taken early. Los Angeles seems to be preparing for exactly that scenario.
According to Jordan Schultz of Bleacher Report, the Rams had a private meeting with Washington Huskies offensive tackle Troy Fautanu. Following an excellent pre-draft process, Fautanu is now viewed as a potential top-15 pick with one scout telling Schultz he might be a top-10 pick after his performance at Washington’s Pro Day.
Related: Los Angeles Rams first-round trade scenarios
Fautanu is intriguing for the Rams for a variety of reasons. First, the 6-foot-4 offensive tackle is an experienced multi-year starter who has lined up at multiple spots including on the interior. He clearly proved he has the athleticism to play left tackle in the NFL, but getting kicked inside or playing right tackle are also very real possibilities.
While a player like Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Byron Murphy II is viewed as an even better fit for Los Angeles following the retirement of Aaron Donald, Fautanu would provide excellent value if he is taken 19th overall. He could be the Rams’ left tackle of the future and even if he doesn’t play that position immediately, his versatility and talent would further improve the Rams offensive line in 2024.
