LOS ANGELES -- In the run-up to the NFL draft, long before the Los Angeles Rams traded up from No. 15 to No. 1 overall, many in the mock draft universe sent wide receiver Michael Thomas to the Rams.

As it turned out, the Rams did draft Michael Thomas. Except, they didn't do it at No. 15, they waited until the sixth round. And, well, it's not the same Michael Thomas.

The Thomas mocked to the Rams before the team traded up went to Ohio State and landed in New Orleans in the second round. The one the Rams drafted went to Southern Mississippi. But just because the Rams' Thomas went much later than the other one doesn't mean he arrives in Los Angeles without potential to contribute.

Over at Pro Football Focus, their team of evaluators released its list of the top 10 sleeper picks of the 2016 NFL draft. Thomas checked in at No. 3 on the list with PFF pointing to the fact that Thomas had their 11th highest receiving grade of all the wideouts in this year's class. According to PFF's metrics, Thomas averaged 2.98 yards per route run, which was fifth best among receivers in the class.

Soon after the draft, one Rams personnel type also pointed to Thomas as the potential sleeper in this class. Thomas didn't attend the scouting combine and his measurables aren't in line with other top wideouts but Thomas' ability to win contested catches and make plays down the field make for an intriguing package.

Thomas shouldn't lack for opportunity to make the roster, either. As a true outside receiver, he joins only Kenny Britt and Brian Quick as players on the roster fitting that profile.

Thomas will be one to watch for the Rams as training camp approaches.

I.C.Y.M.I.

A roundup of Tuesday's Rams stories appearing on ESPN.com. ... We began the morning with a look at why the Rams believe in tight end Tyler Higbee. ... The Ram-blings started with Todd McShay's choice as the best pick for each team. ... The Rams have used the fifth-year option every year it's been available, offering proof that they aren't missing on first-round picks as they once did.

Elsewhere:

Bill Barnwell writes that the trade market could still have plenty of life even after the NFL draft.

McShay offers his five most improved teams after the draft.

Mel Kiper Jr. looks at early impact rookies from Round 1.

John Clayton names his five favorite draft classes.

At TheMMQB.com, Robert Klemko provides a good look at Goff's landing in Los Angeles.

At CBSSports.com, Bill Reiter writes that the Rams got their big draft prize but now must win over Los Angeles.