Should the Rams draft Clemson DT Peter Woods in Round 1?
The Rams wanted Byron Murphy II in 2024, but they can add another dynamic DL in Peter Woods this year.
Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods enters the NFL draft as a giant question mark. His program has produced star defensive tackles throughout the decades, especially under Dabo Swinney. Players like Dexter Lawrence and Christian Wilkins are recent examples, and the latest mocks have put the Rams in a position to draft him if they would like.
Considering the state of the defensive line, the scheme, and the need to win now, here's why the Rams should consider selecting Woods with the 13th overall pick. Woods could be what Byron Murphy II should've been During the 2024 NFL Draft, the Rams attempted to trade up to select defensive tackle Byron Murphy II out of Texas. Murphy was strong, fast, and violent, with Aaron Donald-like tendencies and the ability to play both defensive tackle and end in the Rams' scheme.
That versatility would have given the Rams a solid pass rusher who could be a core part of their run defense. The Seattle Seahawks drafted Murphy, and while the Rams got Jared Verse, Murphy's abilities helped Seattle win Super Bowl LX. Woods is that caliber of player.
As an interior defensive lineman, Woods is able to generate pressure up the middle in ways that the other Rams DTs can’t – outside of Kobie Turner. Yes, his play can be inconsistent, but so was Clemson's. I believe Woods is a product of his system, and if placed within the Rams' player development program and surrounded by such talent, Woods will be a double-digit sack artist, while turning into the franchise's version of Brandon Graham.