Rams: Ranking the Last Seven First Round Picks Heading into the 2017 NFL Draft

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Rams – 2017 NFL Draft – Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Aaron Donald – 13th Overall 2014

Aaron Donald is not only the best first round pick the Rams have had in recent memory, he is hands down the best player in the organization today. Being perhaps the best defensive tackle in the entire league, Donald has received much praise and accolades during his time in the NFL.

Aaron Donald is a three-time pro bowler and a two-time member of the NFL All-Pro team, receiving the honors the past two seasons. Donald’s play has garnered this much praise, and rightfully so, as he has been the top performer for the Rams organization.

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Last season Donald registered 47 combined sacks at defensive tackle, and was second in sacks out of defensive taklcs (8.0) only to Geno Atkins (9.0). The year prior

Donald was tied for first out of defensive tackles with 11.0 sacks, the year prior being second with 9.0 sacks. Donald’s 28.0 sacks the last three seasons is atop the NFL’s best, proving his worth to Los Angeles.

Even when Donald is not getting the statistics he is a constant threat for opposing quarterbacks.

Teams have to keep their eye on Donald, and his mere presence alone is allowing his teammates to be better as well. Being the 13th overall selection, Donald has played like a top five selection.

Overall, the Rams have had good picks in the last several drafts. With one big bust, and multiple still developing, the Rams have one of the best young rosters in the game. Watching these young guys develop will be fun, and while the Rams cannot add another first round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, they can still make a splash in the later rounds.

Next: Richard Sherman to LA?

Let’s hope that the Rams continue to draft smart in the future and that they have a productive 2017 NFL Draft. If they do, we may be seeing Los Angeles in the playoffs in only a few years.

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