Scott Wright (NFLDC) updates his mock with a NEW Rams pick!

**Nick** · -01-18-2009

ST. LOUIS RAMS: EUGENE MONROE, OT, VIRGINIA

It's common knowledge that the Rams have been aching to address their offensive line for a while now and unlike last year, when Jake Long was selected one pick ahead of them, they should have no trouble landing a top blocker in the 2009 NFL Draft. Orlando Pace has been one of the best in the business for more than a decade but he is now in his mid-30's and injuries have really begun to take their toll. Eugene Monroe | Virginia Cavs On the other side former first round pick Alex Barron continues to disappoint and the Rams would like nothing more than to bring in a capable replacement. Eugene Monroe might not be as flashy as some of the other top offensive tackles in this draft but he has a very good chance to be the first blocker off the board. Not only is Monroe a terrific all-around player who can be effective as both a pass and run blocker but he is also a much safer choice than a guy like Andre Smith because there are no concerns about his size or character. Monroe may not have as much upside as Andre Smith, Jason Smith or Michael Oher but his floor is a lot higher. Don't discount the value of program pedigree either and Monroe will attempt to follow in the footsteps of former Cavaliers D'Brickashaw Ferguson and Branden Albert. The Rams will also consider Aaron Curry, who has the ability to man either the strongside or the middle, and they could still use a true #1 cornerback so Malcolm Jenkins might be a possibility as well.

See the full mock at NFL Draft Countdown!!

***txramsfan*** · -01-18-2009

Wow, if Curry can play the middle I'd be happy with him. Not real thrilled about taking a LB in the first round but at this point in the Rams development who cares?

**AvengerRam** · -01-19-2009

I see that Scott likes Nick's concept of the "Monroe Doctrine."

**HUbison** · -01-19-2009

Wow, Monroe @ 2. Curry @ 3. Smith @ 8. Oher @ 13. Maulauga @ 16. Lots of movement for this time of the year.

Someone correct me if I'm mistaken, but didn't Albert play OG for the Cavs because Monroe was at LT? If Monroe is good enough to move Albert inside, then he certainly has my attention.

**Nick** · -01-19-2009

Originally Posted by HUbison

Someone correct me if I'm mistaken, but didn't Albert play OG for the Cavs because Monroe was at LT? If Monroe is good enough to move Albert inside, then he certainly has my attention.

Correctomundo!

***Bar-bq*** · -01-19-2009

Moreover, the Rams have a small advantage already when it comes to Monroe. Chris Long probably has the inside scoop, having played opposite him in practice for two full seasons.