Rookie Profile: Braden Fiske, DL, Los Angeles Rams
Welcome to the Rookie Profile: Braden Fiske, a defensive lineman out of Florida State. He is from Michigan City, IL, and was a 4-star recruit from Michigan City High School.
Fiske began his collegiate career at the University of Western Michigan in 2019. In 12 games he totaled 10 solo tackles, 14 assists, 2 tackles for loss, 1 sack and 1 fumble recovered.
In the Covid-19-shortened 2020 season, he appeared in 6 games. He racked up 7 solo tackles, 16 assists, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks. Fiske exploded in his 12 games in 2021. He totaled 27 solo tackles, 15 assists, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks.
His final season at Western Michigan saw him appear in 12 games where he piled up 32 solo tackles, 27 assists, 12 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 3 passes defended, 1 fumble recovered, and 3 forced fumbles. This career season led to him transferring to Florida State for his final collegiate season.
In 2023 as a senior, he appeared in 13 games for the Seminoles. His production in that season saw him total 17 solo tackles, 26 assists, 9 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks. Fiske proved he could be an elite defender and subsequently declared for the NFL Draft where he dominated the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine.
Measurables
Draft Capital & Landing Spot
Draft Capital- Round 2 Pick 39
- This is a much higher draft pick than was originally expected, but after he destroyed the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine it’s no surprise that he was selected this high. It is a clear indication of how much talent the Los Angeles Rams believe he has.
- A second-round pick on a team that desperately needs to fill some recent holes on the defensive side of the ball is an excellent set of circumstances for Fiske and his long-term value. If he can show a level of talent anywhere near what he showed at the NFL Combine, he could be an IDP stud in the making.
Landing Spot- Los Angeles Rams
- As I mentioned above, this Rams defensive unit has lost a significant amount of talent over the past few seasons. Between free agency, trade, and retirement, they are looking at a completely revamped defense which should allow Fiske ample opportunity to produce.
- I expect Fiske to find his way into a starting role sooner than later, and when he does, it shouldn’t take him long to develop into a full-blown stud on the defensive line.
Team Depth Chart
Expected Role: Starting Lineman
Depth Chart via Fantasy Pros
Fantasy Impact
A defensive tackle, despite his below-average size and reach, compensates with exceptional quickness and relentless energy. Fiske employs swift hand movements and agile footwork to defeat single blocks. When an opening appears, he rapidly pursues the ball carrier. His inability to hold his ground and fill gaps means the defensive scheme will be crucial for him.
Fiske is an energetic rusher who can secure early or delayed victories if his opponents fail to engage effectively and match his intensity. While he may not have the preferred physical attributes, he possesses the potential to become a significant player on defense. He has elite upside as an IDP asset but will take some work to fully round out his game.
Be patient if he doesn’t produce immediate results.
Check out our 2024 Rookie Rankings Page for a full breakdown of this rookie class.
