I think that's probably true. Like a 34-38 win NBA team, the Rams were stuck in No Man's Land. On the outside edge of the playoffs. Not good enough to really contend. Not bad enough to get the top pick(s).
My personal guess is had the Rams not made the trade they'd have added a WR and TE in the top 3 rounds and instead of Cooper and Higbee have two other rookies that may or may not be a little better at this point. But then still be looking at Keenum starting, fans clamoring for Mannion, and all the while realizing they'd have a pick around 10th-14th next spring and wondering how to find a QB.
Like you said, they either hit on Goff or they'll be picking at the top of the 2019 Draft. I don't think there's much in between.
