While the big headline for the Los Angeles Rams from ESPN’s latest seven-round mock draft by Matt Miller was the team taking Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart in the first round, his third-round pick should raise eyebrows.
101. Los Angeles Rams Draft Demetrius Knight Jr., LB, South Carolina:
“Knight is a playmaker who could be a potential rookie starter in the Rams’ base 3-4 defense,” Miller wrote.
Of course, this pick should catch fans’ attention since it attempts to address the team’s biggest need, inside linebacker. But upon further examination, Knight is eerily similar to Ernest Jones — the former Rams linebacker who was unceremoniously traded before the 2024 season, creating a vacuous hole in the middle of the defense that Knight would be trying to fill.
How are these two similar? Well, for starters, they are nearly the exact same size and stature. Both are 6 foot 2, weighing in at 235 pounds. The two linebackers’ age is strangely only separated by about 45 days, and both are named after their fathers. They are both Georgia natives and both played for the South Carolina Game Cocks. To continue the similarities, the Rams drafted Jones in the 3rd Round with overall pick No. 103, two spots back from where Miller expects the Rams to take Knight.
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Knight is characterized by his impressive size, innate instincts, and a deep understanding of his position. He moves fluidly on the field, though his pursuit speed and short-area burst are considered average. However, his ability to quickly diagnose plays, aided by sharp vision and instinctive reactions, allows him to navigate through traffic with remarkable agility. He demonstrates a knack for evading blocks, consistently preventing opponents from maintaining contact at the second level.
In zone coverage, he displays awareness and productivity, though his ability to maintain tight coverage in man situations may be a point of development. While not exceptionally quick, his football intelligence and overall understanding of the game suggest he has the potential to become a three-down player. Beyond his physical attributes, his on-field demeanor and strong football character are significant assets, positioning him as a likely future starter at inside linebacker.