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We've had our second trade of the 2013 NFL Draft, and it implicates the NFC West. The St. Louis Rams moved up to the eighth overall pick and selected dynamic playmaker Tavon Austin. The Rams gave up their first, second, third and seventh picks, and acquired the Buffalo Bills first and third.
Although Austin is a little guy, he brings crazy speed and versatility as a player who will line up at wide receiver but who can also be used as a running back in certain situations. There was a lot of talk the 49ers were interested in Austin, which might be why the Rams decided to climb up and take care of business. I view this as a very good pick by the Rams in a draft that is crucial for them.
Prior to the Rams pick, the Arizona Cardinals drafted guard Jonathan Cooper. It is not a sexy pick, but that offensive line is abysmal, and they need to do what they can to keep Carson Palmer on his feet. I really do think the Cardinals could sneak up on some teams if they can improve that offensive line. They will not be great by any stretch, but with an improved offensive line, they will definitely be better than last year.
MORE DRAFT COVERAGE
- NFL Draft Hub Page
- 49ers Pre-Draft Roster
- Prospect Scouting Reports
- Niners Nation mock draft database
- Niners Nation Community Mock Draft
- Consensus Top-400 big board