Los Angeles Rams: Safeties to target in the 2019 NFL Draft
By Jason Reed
1. Nasir Adderley, Delaware
If the Los Angeles Rams are intent on selecting a safety in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft then the prospect to look forward to is none other than Nasir Adderley. Adderley probably isn’t the best safety in the draft, as that honor goes to Deionte Thompson, but Thompson likely won’t be available by the time the 31st overall pick rolls around.
Adderley, on the other hand, has late first round, early second round projections and would fall right into that billing as the 31st overall pick in the draft. CBS Sports actually ranks Adderley as the second-best safety heading into the draft and the 36th-best draft prospect in the entire draft.
Adderley is the definition of a free safety that excels in dropping deep in coverage and closing the gap with his athleticism. He is one of the most athletic safeties in the entire draft class and has closeout speed that will translate to the NFL level.
He had four interceptions in 2018 and intercepted a total of 11 passes in his three years at Delaware. He plays years beyond his age with an excellent football IQ that gives him great play recognition traits, at least at the collegiate level.
Adderley is someone that the Rams can draft knowing that they can place him at free safety and he will do exactly what Wade Phillips wants him to do.
The only question mark around Adderley is how good he can play man coverage at the NFL level. The Rams love to man up tight ends and backs with safeties and there is a concern that Adderley won’t be able to handle that as his bread and butter is in deep coverage.
However, with the right coaching Adderley should be just fine. He has the mind and the athleticism to thrive in the league.