The Rams had interest in Alabama’s Trent Richardson, but when that fell through they picked up Pead in the 2nd round. While most people see Pead as more of a 3rd down back, the Rams may have other plans.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on SportsCenter early Monday that Pead is viewed as the “successor” to aging Rams starter Steven Jackson. Per Schefter, Pead was “coveted” around the league and would not have lasted on the draft board much longer after the 50th pick.
It’s also worth wondering whether Rams coach Jeff Fisher may have spotted some Chris Johnson in Pead’s game. Johnson’s 2008 Combine weigh-in was 5-foot-11, 197, nearly identical to Pead’s. Like Pead, most draft prognosticators pigeonholed Johnson as a scatback coming out of college.
That last note about Chris Johnson is telling one.
It also goes back to my point that great running backs can be found at any point in the draft. The position is more about instincts than just physical talent. When you can combine both you can find a dynamic runner.
Who knows in three years people might be wondering how Pead lasted as long as he did in the draft.