I’ve tended to defend the Atwell pick and the Rams reasoning for it. It did kinda make sense and after all McVay was the resident O genius behind the decision.
But now that we all share 20-20 hindsight it appears that the Rams made a strategic mistake. And it’s looking like a colossal one, at that.
Humphrey is not only starting but is playing at a Pro Bowl level in his rookie year. Tremendous value for pick #57 by any standards. And he will be an inexpensive Pro Bowler for 3 more years after this one.
In contrast, Atwell couldn’t even sniff the field while failing to impress throughout camp and preseason. Moreover, his diminutive size makes one wonder if he can even stay healthy in the NFL.
Other quality players were sitting there for the Rams besides Humphrey, btw. This is now looking like a ‘I’m the smartest guy in the room’ pick and I fear that it’s blowing up in the Rams face as one of their bigger busts since ‘17.
Want the clinching argument? Who wouldn’t want a do-over on this pick? I rest my case.