Jared Goff is expected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. (Getty)
It’s official, quarterback Jared Goff was the No. 1 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.
The kid from Northern California will move a few hours south to join the Los Angeles Rams, who selected him.
There are a couple quarterbacks on the roster right now — Case Keenum and Nick Foles. Barring a total breakdown in camp, the Rams would be starting Goff from Day 1.
Goff put up the numbers when played for California, throwing for 96 touchdowns and over 12,100 yards in three years as a starter. He’s got a good arm to go with a 6-foot-4 frame and brains. All qualities needed to succeed at the next level.
But does that translate to fantasy football success? Of course it doesn’t guarantee it.
If he does land with the Rams, Goff will be inheriting a very good run game (see Todd Gurley) and defense.
As for his receiving corps? Not the prettiest in the league. Only Tavon Austin had above 40 catches (52). There are a lot of former higher draft picks on the depth chart (Kenny Britt and Brian Quick, to name a couple), but they have been underachieving ones.
Goff certainly has the potential to be a Matt Ryan, but it’s not happening in 2016. Goff isn’t going to be thrown into the fire and expected to win games with his arm in 2016 for Los Angeles. Jeff Fisher doesn’t care about fantasy football. Goff will rely on the running game and be asked to play smart. It won’t be 40 attempts per game for the rookie. Not even close.
Perhaps Goff will emerge as a spot-starter and second quarterback in two-QB leagues, but you don’t need him being your every-week go-to.
Though this NFL Draft is deep with receiving talent, so don’t be surprised if the Rams take a wideout to pair with Goff. Unfortunately, the team traded so much to move up to the No. 1 spot. Their next picks aren’t until Round 4, when they have two selections there.
Of course, if the Rams do not select Goff, we need to re-evaluate this. But right now, all signs are pointing at a Goff to LA situation.
