Steve Avila hasn’t taken the field for the Los Angeles Rams yet, but he looks like a terrific pick already. His position versatility at guard and center is incredibly valuable, especially after watching the Rams’ offensive line get decimated by injuries last season.
Sean McVay has yet to determine where Avila will line up and he didn’t give any indications of whether it’ll be guard or center, but his best position looks like guard. Brandon Thorn, who’s always excellent at breaking down offensive linemen, shared a 10-play cut-up of Avila’s play at guard and it’s impressive.
Even at his size, he’s nimble and quick enough to get to the second level in the running game, but he also holds up well in pass protection against powerful interior defenders. Take a look at the way he erases defenders from the middle and sustains his blocks in pass pro and the running game.
Rams fans, Steve Avila was my top OL left on the board and my OG1 in the draft. He brings proven versatility across the line with starter-level play strength and impressive body control at 330 pounds.
Here is our film room together: https://t.co/6yWWJjJHaa
10 plays showing how… pic.twitter.com/8q0ij8vEw5
— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) April 28, 2023