The Los Angeles Rams possess quite a few needs entering the 2023 NFL draft on both sides of the ball. Many believe the Rams will address the cornerback spot to improve the secondary with Jalen Ramsey being traded to the Miami Dolphins in the offseason.
Besides the cornerback position, the Rams could also express interest in adding a safety via the draft. Taylor Rapp and Nick Scott departed in free agency, leaving the team with unproven players on the backend of their defense aside from Jordan Fuller.
If the Rams want to select a safety on Day 3 of the draft, Daniel Scott out of California is a logical choice.
Background
Scott spent five years at California and he’ll turn 25 in his rookie season in the NFL. In his final two seasons at Cal, Scott combined for 167 tackles, six pass breakups, six interceptions, and three forced fumbles.
Following a career as a captain at Cal, Scott attended the Senior Bowl during the offseason. Scott would then post a 4.45 40-yard dash (2nd among safeties) and a 1.55 10-yard split (tied for 5th among safeties) at the NFL scouting combine.
How he fits the Rams
Scott is an athletic safety who was also a team captain for California in recent years. Some teams could downgrade Scott on their draft boards due to his age, but the Rams have shown they’re willing to take experienced players in the draft.
In his final two seasons, Scott showed upside with his playmaking ability and he’s a willing run defender. Scott should provide immediate special teams contributions at the next level and he could develop into a starter at some point.
Draft projection
With Scott being an older safety, he could be a player some teams avoid during this year’s draft. Even with a strong finish to his collegiate career and a stellar outing at the combine, Scott is projected to be a late-Day 3 pick.
Considering that the Rams have larger needs than safety, Scott would be a fantastic late-round option. The Rams have eight picks on Day 3 and all of those take place in the fifth round or later.
More prospect profiles
Here are the previous safety profiles that have been completed already:
