The 2012 NFL Draft is right around the corner and the top prospects in the country and busily preparing for the NFL Combine to showcase their skills. One of the top prospects on every draft board is USC Trojans offensive tackle Matt Kalil, who is projected for the top-three overall picks by most. In this latest update from our very own SB Nation mock draft, Kalil will be headed to St. Louis in April.
2. St. Louis Rams, Matt Kalil, OT, USC
Head coach Jeff Fisher and his offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer both made it pretty clear that pass protection is a top priority for rejuvenating quarterback Sam Bradford and the Rams offense. Drafting Kalil gives them an elite pass blocker ready to go on day one. The Rams could still trade this pick, but with Washington looking like a suitor for Peyton Manning, Miami making eyes at Matt Flynn and Cleveland possibly having second thoughts about giving up draft picks, St. Louis may not have much of a market for their pick.
One of the biggest story lines of the 2012 NFL Draft will be the amount of moves made on the opening night. Not only are many teams looking for a quarterback -- most likely Robert Griffin III -- but some may also attempt to move up and select a dynamic wide receiver in the mold of Justin Blackmon. Should a team offer the Rams a big haul for their No. 2 overall pick, Kalil could possibly slide down a few selections due to a lack of team need.