The Los Angeles Rams decided not to trade back from the 36th overall pick, standing pat and making their first selection of 2023. With that pick, the Rams selected TCU guard/center Steve Avila, one of the top interior offensive linemen in the class.
Avila started three seasons for the Horned Frogs, playing everywhere from center to guard to right tackle. Depending on how the Rams view him, he could either be a guard or center in their scheme, though with Brian Allen returning, it’s likely that he’ll begin his career at guard.
Avila allowed zero sacks last season at TCU, showing excellent ability in pass protection in what was a high-powered offense.
Signed. Sealed. Delivered.
Welcome to LA, @Stevelavila! pic.twitter.com/SgdDsJz9Ij
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) April 28, 2023
Many thought the Rams might trade down to accumulate more picks later on in the draft, but Les Snead decided to stay put and take the best offensive lineman available in their eyes.
Florida guard O’Cyrus Torrence was another lineman on the board but the Rams preferred Avila, potentially because of his position flexibility between guard and center.
