Rams Interested in Drafting Johnny Manziel?
The St. Louis Rams have been rumored to be considering a change at quarterback. With would-be franchise passer Sam Bradford constantly hurt, inconsistent and due a fat paycheck, it’s no wonder the team is wondering if he’s the guy that can get the job done under center.
It’s more than just whether or not Bradford is the answer. Apparently, whether or not Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel might be the solution is now a question St. Louis is said to be pondering.
Per reports, the Rams have “genuine” interest in Johnny Football, reportedly liking what Manziel brings to the table “a lot”. ESPN’s Chris Mortensen suggested the Rams are truly interested in the polarizing Aggie earlier last week, while Sports Illustrated’s Peter King is now furthering that notion.
Unlike Bradford, Manziel offers elite versatility as a runner and improviser, and could develop into a truly special player on the Rams’ turf. Per King, Rams GM Les Snead even traveled to meet with Kliff Kingsbury, who helped coach Manziel in 2012. Kingsbury has long been a vocal supporter of Manziel’s talent, so a positive meeting with Klingsbury could potentially sway Snead on Manziel.
Two questions emerge from the Manziel to Rams rumors, though. First, just how serious are the Rams about moving on from Bradford? Secondly, and probably just as important, at what point in the draft will they feel the urge to make the splash pick?
The Rams currently hold two first round draft picks in the 2014 NFL Draft, one at the number two spot, with the second at 13th overall.
There is still a chance Manziel is taken first overall by the Houston Texans, but if the Texans trade down or opt for a defensive player like Jadeveon Clowney or Khalil Mack, it could suddenly put the Rams in the driver seat to change the course of their franchise dramatically. Should they draft someone other than Manziel at two overall, St. Louis could have their sights on him with their second first rounder, but would clearly risk allowing someone else to snatch him up over the next 10 selections.
Whether or not the Rams are actually going to draft Manziel remains to be determined. However, if they’re serious about it, they’ll almost certainly have to suck it up and use the number two overall pick to get him.
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