Here’s PARAM…
In 26 yrs.....from 1996-2022.....Rams #1 TEs >>>>> Conwell, Williams, Manumaleuna, Cleeland*, Klopfenstein, McMichael*, Kendricks, Cook* and Higbee......doesn't include a Kelce or even a Engram. IMO #1 and #2 are Higbee and Conwell. But both are/were well rounded with a penchant for getting dinged up. Among all, some were drafted and some were signed as free agents*. But even the free agents, who came in as accomplished TEs didn't produce the way we expected save Cook, for a season or two.
It doesn't matter where tight ends are drafted, it matters how you evaluate and employ them. I was hoping the Rams were going to draft Isiah Likely or Jelani Woods. Having said that there were 7 potentially good TEs who had moderately (25+) to significantly (39+ rec) productive rookie seasons in last years draft. Only 1 was taken higher than the third round.
So with the group of TEs available, the Rams collection of picks and the need for a TE, there's a good chance we grab one in the 2nd, 3rd or 4th (provided we obtain a 4th via trade down or comp pick). At least I'm hoping. Because we absolutely need one.
