So why didn’t the Rams declare their intentions with the first overall pick in the draft after acquiring it from the Titans? The Rams adopted that approach at least partially because the NFL asked them to.
Sam Farmer of the L.A. Times, via TheBigLead.com, added this gem to an item about quarterback Jared Goff: “Multiple people with knowledge of the situation say the NFL has asked the Rams to keep their quarterback choice quiet until the draft, thereby sustaining the drama.”
Given that the NFL has in the past squeezed broadcast partners to not tip draft picks before they are announced at the podium, it’s hardly a surprise to learn that the NFL has squeezed one of its franchises to zip it regarding their plans at the top of the draft. This invites plenty of speculation as to how long the NFL has been encouraging the team with the first overall pick to say nothing about what they plan to do.
So, basically, don’t expect any NFL team to ever declare their intentions with the first overall pick, unless and until the NFL changes its attitude toward the ultimately reality show’s ultimate offseason reality show.