Sean McVay has been unable to find a consistent rhythm in the running game in recent years. Outside of an impressive finish to the season from Cam Akers in 2022, the Los Angeles Rams have been void of a reliable ground attack.
Akers figures to have a role in the offense next season, but the Rams could look to add to their backfield in the offseason. There are a few notable free agents available, while there are also incoming rookies that would fit McVay’s offense.
If the Rams do set their sights on adding a running back in the 2023 NFL draft, Tyjae Spears out of Tulane is an enticing choice.
Background
After seeing minimal work for Tulane in his first two collegiate seasons, Spears became a dynamic contributor for the Green Wave. Besides rushing for 2,444 yards and 28 rushing touchdowns in his last two years at Tulane, Spears showed off his receiving skills with a combined 41 receptions, 401 receiving yards, and two receiving touchdowns in that span.
Spears suffered a torn ACL early in the 2020 campaign, so it was impressive to see him bounce back in 2021 and 2022. Following a productive season in 2022, Spears was invited to the Senior Bowl and he impressed plenty of onlookers with his performance.
How he fits the Rams
Considering that Akers has caught a total of 27 passes in his first three seasons in the NFL, the Rams could benefit from adding a capable receiving back. Even though he didn’t see a ton of work through the air, Spears proved he can more than handle his own in the passing game during the Senior Bowl practices and game.
Spears is electric with the ball in his hands and McVay could find ways to utilize his strengths out of the backfield. It remains to be seen how Spears handles pass protection in the NFL, but his potential as a playmaker is enough to make him an intriguing addition to the Rams’ running back room.
Draft projection
Before the Senior Bowl took place, Spears was teetering on being a third- or fourth-round pick. But after catching the attention of scouts and coaches alike during the Senior Bowl, Spears has seen his draft stock improve tremendously.
At the moment, the majority of mock drafts have Spears being taken in either the second or third round. Taking that into consideration, the Rams would have to use one of their first selections in the draft to get Spears. Or they would need to trade up, though, they have more pressing needs than running back right now.
